2008 40 Under 40 Honoree: Jerrod Wheeler

He’s principal of George Espy Elementary School in Nixa.

“My greatest satisfaction comes from seeing (students) succeed academically and seeing them grow and mature as tomorrow’s leaders,” Wheeler says.

Much to Wheeler’s satisfaction, Espy students have fared well in academics.

“Espy students lead the district and region in Missouri Assessment Program scores year after year,” Wheeler says. “They have led our district in attendance for four years straight.”

Wheeler earned his bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Northeast Louisiana University. He also holds a master’s degree in educational administration and supervision and a Doctor of Education in educational leadership from the University of Louisiana at Monroe.

Beyond the realm of education, another source of pride for Wheeler has been moving his educational technology company, Wheeler Designs LLC, from vision to profitability.

“I want to provide my students the very best technology that is available,” Wheeler says. “My business is based on the inspiration of bringing technology to my students and the students of other school districts.”

The key to future success, Wheeler notes, is technological literacy.

“Technology will be essential for success in the future, and as educators, it is our responsibility to ensure that all students are provided equal opportunities for mastering these skills,” he adds.

Wheeler has participated in Rotary Club and Kiwanis Club activities and is a leader in the CharacterPlus communitywide character education initiative being implemented throughout the Nixa community and school system.

Wheeler enjoys his position at Espy, but he anticipates landing a school superintendent job in southwest Missouri.

In the meantime, Wheeler plans to continue Espy’s track record of excellence on the Missouri assessment program and pushing attendance to the 97 percent level.

He also hopes to expand Wheeler Designs in to new markets.

Double Play

Birth date: Sept. 26, 1976

Family: My wife, Amie, and I have been married for eight years, and we were recently blessed with a beautiful baby girl, Jorgie Reese Wheeler. Amie serves as school counselor at Nixa Junior High. My parents, Drs. Bill Wheeler and Tanna Wheeler, are both retired school superintendents and currently share the superintendent position at Chadwick. My sister, Jennifer Wheeler, is a principal at Highlandville Elementary.

Philosophy to live/work by: Work extremely hard, but play equally as hard. Be the kind of boss/colleague/employee/friend/spouse you would choose to have. Never miss a good opportunity to keep your mouth closed. Show sincere appreciation for those who deserve it.

In a fantasy world, which professional sport would you play? Water skiing. I love the sport and the people involved in it. I grew up competing and attended college on a water skiing scholarship. It would be a lot of fun to still be a part of that – while simultaneously paying the bills.

Information accurate at the time of the honor.[[In-content Ad]]