Thank you, DeSoto County for entrusting in me to represent District 3!
A Lifelong Commitment to DeSoto County Schools
WHY I'M RUNNING
Faith & Family
Advocate For Opportunity
Empowering Educators
- Married to Gina, a retired Walls Elementary teacher of over two decades.
- Proud father of two and grandfather to seven DeSoto County Schools graduates and attendees.
- Active member of the LaBelle Haven Baptist Church.
Empowering Educators
Advocate For Opportunity
Empowering Educators
- Approved additional teacher units specifically for vocational education, emphasizing practical skills and career development.
- DeSoto County Schools recognized as an "A" school district by the Mississippi Department of Education.
- Achieved the highest graduation rate in the history of DeSoto County Schools during his tenure.
Advocate For Opportunity
Advocate For Opportunity
Honoring Service & Leadership
- Instrumental in establishing nine scholarships at Northwest Mississippi Community College for DeSoto County School students with public service aspirations.
- Advocated for and approved the presence of a school nurse in every school for student health and well-being.
Honoring Service & Leadership
Fiscal Responsibility & Governance
Honoring Service & Leadership
- Spearheaded a committee in 2002 to honor fallen officers in DeSoto County.
- Recognized as the National Law Enforcement Officer of the Month in October 2014.
- Mentor for the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Public Safety Cadets and VIPS.
Community Safety & Well-Being
Fiscal Responsibility & Governance
Fiscal Responsibility & Governance
- Served with the Southaven Police Department for 32 years.
- Devoted 24 years as a School Resource Officer in Southaven area schools.
- Introduced and taught the "Be a Winner Drug Prevention Program."
- Mentored young individuals through the Southaven Police Department Explorer program.
Fiscal Responsibility & Governance
Fiscal Responsibility & Governance
Fiscal Responsibility & Governance
- Approved fiscally sound budget for DeSoto County Schools.
- Demonstrated commitment to taxpayers by avoiding any tax increases for school funding.
- Committed to ensuring that every taxpayer dollar is invested wisely in our schools while upholding the highest standards of financial integrity and governance.
Our Recent Meet & Greet
Experience. Dedication. Integrity. That's Jerald Wheeler.
About Jerald Wheeler
With over three decades of dedicated service in the Southaven Police Department, Jerald Wheeler is no stranger to putting the needs of the community first. For 24 of those years, he proudly wore the badge of a School Resource Officer, ensuring the safety and well-being of the Southaven area schools' students. This role was more than just a job for Jerald—it was a testament to his steadfast commitment to creating a nurturing environment for young minds to flourish.
Jerald's dedication to mentorship and positive change is evident in his impactful initiatives. He championed the "Be a Winner Drug Prevention Program," providing invaluable life lessons to countless students. His passion for guiding the youth extended to mentoring the Southaven Police Department Explorer program, a reflection of his belief in the potential of our young community members.
In 2002, showcasing his profound respect for his colleagues in service, Jerald spearheaded a committee to honor fallen officers, an effort that didn't go unnoticed. His tireless dedication to service and community led to his recognition as the National Law Enforcement Officer of the Month in October 2014.
Education and community growth have always been at the heart of Jerald's endeavors. This is reflected in his pivotal role in establishing nine scholarships at Northwest Mississippi Community College, awarded annually to DeSoto County School students aiming to serve in public service roles.
Beyond his professional accolades, Jerald's personal life paints a picture of a man deeply rooted in the values of family and faith. He is happily married to Gina Wheeler, a retired educator from Walls Elementary School. The couple is blessed with two daughters, Lacey and Holly, both proud graduates of DeSoto County Schools. The Wheelers are devout members of the LaBelle Haven Baptist Church and have seven grandchildren.
Jerald Wheeler's legacy isn't just defined by his past achievements; it's illuminated by his ongoing commitment. As a DeSoto County Schools Board Member, he has consistently advocated for the safety and well-being of students, ensuring every school is equipped with a police officer on campus. His decision-making is driven by prudence, evident in his approval of a fiscally sound budget without any tax hikes for school funding.
His vision for DeSoto County Schools is clear: A district where every student is provided with the best opportunities to succeed, and where the community actively participates in shaping a brighter future for all.
Vote for Jerald Wheeler—a proven leader, a dedicated servant, and a visionary for our community's future.
Jerald Wheeler, DeSoto County Schools Board Member - District 3