The Cassville School Board has hired a new principal for Cassville Intermediate School, effective July 1.

After 30 years in education, current Cassville Intermediate Principal Jeff Swadley is be retiring at the end of this academic year.

The Board has selected Caleb Wheeler, current assistant principal at Cassville primary and intermediate schools, to serve as the next principal for the intermediate building. Wheeler joined the Cassville R-IV administration team in 2022 and has demonstrated dedication and commitment to the success and well-being of students at Cassville R-IV.

“We are excited about Mr. Wheeler becoming the next Intermediate Principal,” said Merlyn Johnson, Cassville superintendent. “His commitment to academics, building relationships and unwavering passion for school improvement will make a positive impact for our Intermediate students and families.”

Wheeler is in his 10th year of education, serving in multiple roles ranging from a classroom teacher and coach for the Webb City school district to assistant principal at Cassville and principal at Wheaton Elementary.

Wheeler has earned a Master’s in educational leadership from Arkansas State University and his undergraduate degree from Missouri Southern State University.

“Ever since I joined the Wildcat team I have been welcomed and embraced by a fantastic staff and community,” Wheeler said. “Both [Primary Principal Mindi] Gates and Mr. Swadley have been incredible to work with and learn from this past school year and have greatly prepared me for this role.

“Mr. Swadley has left such a legacy at the intermediate and a strong foundation for me to take on this new position. I am excited to continue to work with such dedicated and caring staff!”

Wheeler and his wife, Maddie, have two children, Charlee and Forest.