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James Alan Nieporent was born on June 29, 1965 to Hans and Lucille Nieporent in Brooklyn, NY. He passed away unexpectedly on a trip to California on May 28, 2024. He is survived by his brother Darren and his sister Amy.
James grew up in Manhattan Beach, Brooklyn excelling in school at Mark Twain Junior High School for the Gifted & Talented and Abraham Lincoln High School before going on to the Ivy League at the University of Pennsylvania where he received an undergraduate degree in history and a Master of Education.
A genius of the English language, James taught at the Boston Academy in Arizona for over 20 years in a career in which he helped thousands of students prepare in this subject for their college entrance exams.
On teaching he once wrote: “It is a very fulfilling experience to work with young people and to contribute to their success. I truly treasure my memories of all of the wonderful young ladies and gentlemen I have had the honor of teaching and all of the exciting moments of seeing them succeed beyond their wildest dreams.” – James Alan
James developed a great love for Korean culture and visited Korea in 2015. He also received a black belt in the Korean martial art of Taekwondo. James’ final wishes were for his ashes to be scattered in Korea which will be honored.
He will be greatly missed by his family, his friend and colleague Harry Yoo and his best friend Erez Yaakobi. James was overjoyed to serve as the best man at Erez’s wedding to his wonderful wife Sarit.
James will also be missed by countless friends who were fortunate to have experienced his generosity of spirit and hilarious sense of humor. James’ legacy lives on in the thousands of students whose lives were bettered by his passion for teaching and his mission to inspire young people to pursue their dreams.
Virtual Memorial Reception
Recorded Tuesday, June 11, 2024
James’ family and colleagues invite you to view the interactive online reception to honor his life and legacy. Attendees had the opportunity to share stories, tributes, and memories about James’ impact on their lives.
**Registration required**
A beautiful & memorable service for James.It was a privilege to be a part of it.
Rest in Peace James.
Chuck & Marion Margolis
Mr. James tutored me in SAT English in 11th grade. I would always look forward to our sessions, as Mr. James was funny and very knowledgeable. I still remember his sarcastic humor and the way he was so passionate about teaching. When my dad was sick, he offered support and help to my family, which I really appreciated. He was a caring person and was loved by all of his students. We all miss you, Mr. James. Thank you for everything you did for us. May you rest in peace.
When I reflect on my time with Mr. Alan, I see more than just a teacher. I see someone who believed in me, pushed me to be better, and truly wanted only the best for me. I see a father. Witty and genuine with every interaction, I couldn’t have asked for a better mentor. Thank you for everything Mr. Alan, you have touched my life in more ways you could possibly imagine. May you Rest In Peace and I hope to see you again.
One can only hope that they touch so many lives in such a positive way. James you provided a wonderful example for us all.
Mr. James tutored both my kids in high school – he was very supportive, disciplined and passionate teacher and cared a great deal about their success. He would take time and effort with each student and has made a positive impact on many student lives and education. He was also very knowledgeable about different fields, universities and culturally aware about languages and regions of the world. Thank you for all you did for the kids and Rest in peace Mr. James.
Mr. Alan helped both of our daughters with various university entrance exams, etc. He had very high expectations of our daughters, but the great thing was that he had faith in them, and he helped them achieve those expectation. Underneath his tough exterior, he really had a soft spot for all of his students. He cared about them and their success more than any other teachers my daughters had. He also had a great sense of humor that we all appreciate and remember with fondness.
Rest in peace Mr. Alan…your time on this earth made a huge, positive difference in so many lives! We will miss you.
It was an absolute privilege learning from Mr. James during my time in Boston Academy. It absolutely hurts my heart that the next time I visit Arizona I won’t be able to stop by and say hi to him. I reread the last email he had sent me in 2017 wishing me the best of luck in college and how happy he was for my accomplishments. He used to remind me that college would be the best four of your lives and it winded up to be an absolute blast. I will never forget the great times we had during our tutoring sessions. Next time I see you Mr. James we can continue to laugh at my struggles in pronunciation. Till then, rest in peace and we’ll see each other again. Thank you for changing my life and leaving an imprint.
Mr. James was always so proud of his students and their accomplishments. He spoke very highly of all his students when we would catch up over dinner. I am so grateful to have had him as a teacher and as “제임스 삼촌.” I am saddened by his sudden passing. I will deeply miss him.
May you rest in peace, James. Thank you for teaching my daughter and all the other students. Your passion will be long remembered. My deepest condolences to his family.
Rest in peace, my old friend. So many good memories of growing up together.
I may not have been the most well-behaved student Mr. James has ever had, but I can certainly say he is one of my favorite teachers. He truly cared about his students and was passionate about teaching. I took private tutoring with him, and when I misbehaved, he would inform my parents out of genuine concern for my well-being, knowing that my parents were investing in my education. He didn’t tolerate misbehavior and helped me improve.
To hear about his sudden passing is heartbreaking. My family and I extend our condolences to his family. Mr. James will be greatly missed, but his impact on the students lives he taught will not be forgotten. Thank you Mr. James may you rest in peace.
His seemed a life well-lived. Someone who gave so much ch to his students. My condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.
I pay Mr. James all the successes and opportunities I have gained under his tremendous talent and genius. I will never forget his passionate and driven character when it came to being our mentor and will always be appreciative of having to know him both as a friend and teacher: I offer my deepest condolences to his family. May he rest in peace.
Mr. James was an incredible teacher and mentor. Though it’s been over six years since I last saw him, I never forgot his kindness or characteristic wit. My condolences to his family. May he rest in peace.
I had private tutoring with Mr. Alan for several months. To say that Mr. Alan was an excellent teacher and person is an understatement. He was always willing to go above and beyond for his students and always pushed me to succeed, even if I thought I wasn’t capable. He helped me so much and I am truly devastated by his loss. I offer my deepest condolences to his family and hope his soul rests in peace.
He was the best teacher ever, always helping me improve myself in areas I was weak in and supporting me from the sidelines. I wouldn’t be where I am now without him. I’ll miss him and I hope he has gone to a better place.