Jarvis Wheeler

Jarvis Wheeler is a nationally recognized community impact leader, educator, and social entrepreneur dedicated to advancing educational equity and strengthening communities. With over 15 years of experience in community schools, nonprofit leadership, and systems-level change, he has built a reputation as a results-driven strategist who bridges education, community development, and collective impact.

Jarvis currently serves as Project Director of Educational Strategy at Lift Orlando, where he is leading the development of a flagship K–8 school designed to accelerate student achievement and community transformation. In this role, he oversees strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and cross-sector partnerships, working alongside national organizations such as Harlem Children’s Zone and Purpose Built Communities to implement innovative, holistic education models.

Previously, Jarvis served as Vice President of Community Impact at Children’s Home Society of Florida, where he led statewide and national partnership development efforts that generated over $7 million in investments to expand community-based programs. Prior to that, he was the Statewide Community Partnership School Director, managing a $20 million portfolio and helping position the organization as a leader in the community schools movement across Florida and beyond.

Jarvis began his career in education as a teacher and community school director at Maynard Evans High School in Orlando, where he launched Florida’s first Community Partnership School. His leadership helped drive measurable gains in student achievement, behavior, and college readiness. He also created a nationally recognized all-male mentoring program that achieved a 100% college acceptance rate for participating students.

A trusted voice in education and community development, Jarvis has been featured in outlets such as the Orlando Sentinel, Florida Trend, and Spectrum News 13, and has contributed to national conversations on the Community Schools model. His work reflects a deep commitment to creating systems that empower youth, strengthen families, and transform neighborhoods.

Jarvis holds a Master of Public Administration and a Master of Social Work, as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management from Florida State University. He is an active community leader and mentor, affiliated with organizations such as Leadership Florida, Leadership Orlando, Black Boardroom Institute, and All Pro Dads.

Above all, Jarvis is a dad to Taryn & Laurence, driven by a clear purpose: to create pathways of opportunity for young people and build communities where children and families can thrive.