Who am I really?

Who Am I Really?

By John Wheeler, Candidate for Franklin School Board

What Makes Me Different?

One of the biggest comments I’ve heard from community members is that it’s time for change on the Franklin School Board. I agree—and I believe it’s important to share what makes me different from other candidates in this race.

1. No Family Ties to the District

Unlike some current or past board members, I don’t have family employed by Franklin City Schools. In a small town, of course I know many people who work in the district—but that’s different from having personal interests tied to its hiring or contracts. My independence means I can make decisions based solely on what’s best for our students, staff, and community.

2. No Children in the Schools—But Deeply Involved

While I don’t have children currently enrolled in the district, I’ve been closely connected to Franklin’s programs for years. I’ve coached with the Franklin Winter Guard since 2009 and joined the marching band program last year. These experiences have allowed me to work directly with students, teachers, and parents—seeing both the successes and challenges of our schools up close.

My motivation to run actually came from this community of educators and families who encouraged me to take this step. I may not have kids in the schools, but I’m deeply invested in the people who make them great.

3. Committed to Honesty and Facts

I believe good leadership begins with integrity. If I don’t know the answer to something, I’ll say so—and then I’ll do the research to find out. Disinformation and rumor only divide us, while truth and transparency bring us together.

My goal as a board member is to create an environment where facts are shared openly and the public always feels informed and included. Transparency is not just a value—it’s a promise.

Why Am I Running?

Simply put: because I care.

I grew up in Franklin in the early 90s, with my education running through the early 2000s, and remember what it was like when our schools were under financial strain. Field trips were canceled. Sports and arts programs struggled. Families moved to other districts. Teachers left for stability elsewhere. Now, in 2025, I see our district facing similar challenges—and I believe we can, and must, do better.

The community has made it clear that trust in the school board has been shaken. I’m running to help rebuild that trust and bring the focus back to what matters most: our students.

A Franklin Story

My roots in Franklin run deep. When the General Motors plant in Moraine closed, my family faced bankruptcy and we moved into a small apartment above Franklin Self-Storage. I worked hard through school, earning my Bachelor of Education from Bowling Green State University and later my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Dayton.

My career has included teaching, counseling, consulting, and years of volunteer coaching for Franklin’s performing arts programs. I’ve experienced the struggles many Franklin families face—and I know what it takes to overcome them.

A Broader View of Education

Education is more than academics. Students need to feel safe, supported, and inspired. Extracurricular activities—whether in sports, arts, or leadership—build confidence, accountability, and belonging. Even in tight financial times, we must remember the value of these programs in shaping who our students become.

I also understand the pressures teachers face: constant testing changes, shifting standards, and limited resources. As a former educator and now a counselor, I know both sides of the classroom—and I’ll bring that understanding to every decision I make as a board member.

In Closing

I’m not a politician—I’m a neighbor, a coach, and someone who believes in the power of this community. My campaign is built on transparency, accountability, and trust, because that’s what Franklin deserves.

Together, we can build schools that truly reflect our values and give every student the opportunity to succeed.

❤️ Let’s make Franklin proud—together.