Jay Wheeler, the District 1 member of the Osceola County School Board, has been under fire for years following allegations of misallocation of funds and ethics complaints.

This year, he's up for reelection. And his challenger, Leah Carius, wants his seat.

Wheeler, the incumbent, has 12 years of experience.

"That's one thing I bring: I bring the nuances of education," Wheeler said.

While in office, though, Wheeler has been investigated for using campaign funds for personal use. He has also faced a lawsuit and multiple ethics complaints.

Carius says that when she found out Wheeler was using a photograph of himself with Sheriff Hansell for promotional material, she says her office called the sheriff directly and he told them he doesn't endorse Jay Wheeler, or any candidate for that matter.

News 13 spoke to Sheriff Hansell, who issued the following statement:

I did not endorse, nor did I give Jay Wheeler permission to use my image or name on any paid political advertisements.  I try to refrain from endorsing any local candidates, as it may possibly hinder any future governmental relations. 

Wheeler said he has apologized to the sheriff, and that apology was accepted on good terms.

Despite all of the allegations, though, Wheeler said he has had a positive impact on the district by creating working relationships with local businesses and helping turn Osceola high schools to A and B schools. He said the school district needs to drop the negatives from the past and focus on the future.

"What we need to get focused on is on the children and improving public education in Osceola County," Wheeler said. "That is the priority."

If re-elected, Wheeler's goals include establishing more affordable benefits for teachers, getting students involved in higher quality education through technology and expanding career and technical education.

Carius has slightly different goals. She said she wants to standardize education, improve partnerships with local and state agencies. Carius said Wheeler isn't the man for the job.

"When you have had those problems in the past, your integrity comes into question," Carius said.

Carius said her main focus is to bring integrity back to the School Board.

"I'm not in it for the political motivations," Carius said. "I'm going to be there year after year after year."

Both candidates agree their focus is on improving education. Osceola County Public Schools is facing overcrowding and financial debt.

Wheeler said recruiting new charter schools will alleviate the county's fiscal responsibility, but Carius said an increase in the county's sales tax is the best way to raise funds.