Tyler Shuler
Jessica Webb
editor@thesmokymountaintimes.com
Earlier this week, Swain County Schools announced that Tyler Shuler has been named as the new principal for East Elementary School.
Shuler started with Swain County Schools in 2014. He was named Dean of Students in 2021 at East and has served in that capacity since.
Shuler said by email working as the dean was a great experience.
“I enjoy working with staff and students of East Elementary,” he said. “My time as Dean of Students allowed me to gain valuable experience and understanding being a school administrator. The staff at East is always willing to help and work together to be successful.”
He also spoke highly of Amanda Sutton, who was the previous principal.
“As dean of students, I was lucky to work for Amanda Sutton. She is a great principal/ mentor that included me in as much as possible. Her inclusiveness and guidance led to the experience, knowledge, and understanding that I have today,” he said.
Shuler said his family moved back to Swain County when he was in 2nd grade and has been here since. His mom, dad and brother live in neighboring Jackson County. Shuler lives in Whittier with his family.
Shuler earned his bachelor's degree from Mars Hill University and master’s degree from University of North Carolina at Pembroke.
In addition to classroom and administrative work, Shuler has coaches baseball and basketball. He served as assistant varsity baseball coach for 2 years, and head varsity baseball coach for 7 years. Shuler also served as assistant boys’ middle school basketball coach for a season and head coach for 4 years.
As to the coming year as principal, Shuler said he is looking forward to building on the great work already in motion at the elementary school.
“I look forward to continuing the great things that we are doing at East Elementary. I look forward to working with the students, teachers, and community to provide the best education possible to our students,” he said.