Learn About My Journey to School Board and What I Stand For
WHO AM I?
Hi, I’m John Wheeler—a 34-year-old lifelong resident of Franklin, OH, and a proud product of the Franklin City School system. I’m the son of John (Johnny) and Sally Wheeler, and the grandson of John Wheeler, a man many in this town knew as a true servant of the community. While many folks know someone in the Wheeler family, you may not know me—unless our paths crossed during my years in Franklin schools.
I wasn’t a star athlete or the most social kid at every party, but I was always present—in the band room, on the winter guard floor, backstage with the Thespians, or serving in student organizations. I stayed involved, worked hard, and found my home in the arts and leadership programs that helped shape who I am today.
After graduating from Franklin High School, I earned my Bachelor’s in Education from Bowling Green State University and later completed a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Dayton. Today, I work as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the Dayton area and continue to volunteer with the school district that raised me.
MY HISTORY WITH THE FRANKLIN COMMUNITY
Franklin is my home. I grew up riding bikes on Dale Avenue, walking to the Dollar General with friends, and spending summer days at the community pool with my cousin Whitney. I was shaped by neighborhood traditions, the warmth of familiar faces, and the value of being part of something bigger than myself.
From playing t-ball with the Franklin Recreation Association—while my Uncle Gene umpired and my Aunt Tara ran concessions—to walking the halls of Schenck Elementary and marching with the Franklin Band, my roots run deep here. Over the past 16 years, I’ve proudly volunteered with Franklin’s Winter Guard programs and recently stepped in as the Visual Designer during the Marching Band’s 2024 season.
Even after leaving for college, I always returned to Franklin—first to coach, later to serve. And aside from a few years after graduation, Franklin has remained my home.
But like many families here, mine has faced tough times. During my high school years, we filed for bankruptcy and moved into a small apartment attached to a storage unit office. I missed out on school trips like the 8th-grade visit to Washington, D.C., because of failing tax levies and community hardships. My dad lost his job at GM (General Motors) during the economic downturn, and my parents worked long hours just to keep things going. I know what it’s like to grow up with limited options—but big dreams.
WHY I'M RUNNING FOR SCHOOL BOARD
I’m running for Franklin School Board because I believe every student deserves opportunity, access, and support—regardless of their zip code or family income.
I remember what it felt like when levies failed, programs were cut, and field trips disappeared. I remember watching classmates transfer to other districts for better opportunities. I know the sting of being left behind—not because you lacked the will, but because the system couldn’t stretch far enough.
But I also know the strength of this community—how people show up, how they care deeply, and how much they want our schools to thrive. When I interviewed for a vacant school board seat earlier this year, I made a promise: if not appointed, I would run. I stand by that promise.
This campaign is grounded in transparency, accountability, and trust. I want to be a voice for students who don’t feel heard, for families navigating tight budgets, and for educators who deserve to be supported. I bring the lived experience, the professional training, and the commitment to show up fully for this role.
We don’t need to recreate the past—we need to invest in a better future, together.
Let’s build it.
CAMPAIGN FOCUS
Building a Better Future for Franklin Schools
John's campaign is centered around the core values of putting students first, supporting educators, and ensuring that every child in Franklin receives a quality education. Through collaborative efforts and open communication, John aims to create a school board that listens to the community and works towards a brighter future for all children.