Teachers are some of the most influential people in the world. They encourage and inspire young people to believe in themselves and to strive for the best. That's why Tyrone Bates is proud to play a role in the Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools educational system.

As the Community Outreach Specialist, District Athletic Specialist and YouthFriends Coordinator for the Kansas City Kansas Public School district, Tyrone supports teachers by developing relationships in the community that provide services for students and families that exceed the capacity of the school district. A certified teacher himself, he knows what it takes to manage a classroom and what may distract a student from learning.

But teaching wasn't something he always aspired toward. Growing up in the KCK Public Schools, he credits athletics for saving his life. In fact, he's writing a book about it today. Athletics taught him to be determined, resilient and steadfast. It helped him set goals and reach high levels of achievement. Most importantly, it got him into college.

Out of high school, Bates received a scholarship to run cross-country and track at Northwest Missouri State University. After a few years, realizing he was not an Olympic runner, he set his sights on a field that would allow him to influence others and one that would allow him hands-on time with his own family: teaching.

Today he has a bachelor's degree in biology and chemistry and a master's degree in curriculum and instruction. He is currently as reached A.B.D. (All But Dissertation) status and is working as a doctoral candidate on his dissertation in educational leadership and policy analysis.

His goal today is to be an example for young people everywhere, and to be a positive role model for young men who don't have a male presence in their lives.