Fairview High School principal Johnny Whaley has accepted a position with the Alabama State Department of Education after more than two decades with the Cullman County School District.
Whaley accepted his current position at Fairview in July 2023, after serving at Vinemont High School for 21 years. The Cullman County Board of Education announced his replacement, Fairview alumnus Dr. Brad Stapler, Monday, May 20. Stapler is set to take over administrative duties July 1.
“While we will miss Dr. Whaley and we are appreciative of his service, we are excited about the experienced leadership that Dr. Stapler brings to Fairview,” Superintendent Shane Barnette said in a release sent to The Times. “Being an alumnus of Fairview and still involved in the community, Dr. Stapler will bring his passion to lead Fairview to continue their rich tradition of excellence.”
Stapler has served as principal of Brewer High School and Cotaco School in Morgan County. He is the current assistant principal and Career Technical Director at Arab High School. He told the board on Monday how returning to his alma mater has been a goal that he was grateful to have the opportunity to achieve.
“Fairview was so good to me growing up,” Stapler said. “I will never forget sitting in Mr. [Randall] Heatherly’s office and just thinking that I wanted to do this one day.”
In a letter addressed to the Fairview community, Stapler also said former principal Keith Pattillo had been another formative figure who led him toward his current administrative career.
He said he is excited to lead Fairview forward in a way that honors the traditions which have shaped him into the person he is today.
“Growing up in the halls of Fairview High School, I developed a profound appreciation for its values and traditions. As a member of the Class of 1996, I understand the unique spirit that defines this institution. Now, to have the privilege of leading it forward is an honor beyond measure,” Stapler said in his letter.