Jim graduated from Concordia University in Ann Arbor with a BA in education in 1991, and from Capella University with a MS in Education in 2008. He spent four years teaching Junior High Science, History, and Physical Education at St. Paul Lutheran School in Westlake, Ohio before returning to Ann Arbor in 1995. In nine years in Ann Arbor, Jim served as a middle school teacher in the areas of History, Geography, Religion, and Physical Education at St. Paul Lutheran School.  In addition, Jim served as the Athletic Director at St. Paul and also served as varsity soccer coach at Concordia University for two years.

At Our Redeemer, Jim teaches American History and Geography at the Junior High level. Jim also serves as assistant principal, and coaches varsity girls’ soccer at Milwaukee Lutheran High School. Jim "loves to see young men and women build their relationship with their Savior as they build their relationships with each other." Jim was honored to receive recognition as the Lutheran Education Association's "Distinguished Lutheran Elementary Teacher" in 2008.

Jim and his wife, Penny, have three children – Austin, who is in eighth grade; Christian, who is in fifth grade; and Katherine - a third grader. As a family, the Van Dellen family enjoys camping, rock climbing, and bike riding. Jim, of course, enjoys sports of all kinds (especially soccer,) is a NASCAR fanatic (Mark Martin rules!) and loves to spend time in his woodshop building furniture.