Darius Hayes
My Brother’s Keeper
Master of Science in Sport and Human Performance
Graduated, May 2025
Jackson, MS
Darius Hayes is a passionate educator, mentor, and changemaker currently serving in his third year as a 5th-grade Math teacher at Johnson Elementary School. A native of Greensboro, North Carolina, Darius is a proud graduate of the illustrious North Carolina A&T State University—one of the nation’s premier HBCUs. His leadership in and out of the classroom is driven by a deep belief in the transformative power of education and human connection.
Project: My Brother’s Keeper – Mentorship for Young Boys
My Brother’s Keeper is a mentorship initiative created to support 4th and 5th-grade boys facing behavioral challenges during a critical developmental stage. The program provides consistent mentorship, emotional support, and accountability—empowering students to better regulate their emotions, build confidence, and grow into leaders.
Even without formal structure or funding, Darius’ commitment made a measurable impact. Participants showed fewer outbursts, improved grades, and greater classroom engagement. Some students even took on leadership roles in their school, proving that with the right support, every child can rise.
Fellowship Impact
As a TFA Graduate Fellow, Darius embraced the opportunity to move from awareness to action. He learned that meaningful impact doesn’t require grand gestures—it begins with consistent presence, humility, and care. The Fellowship deepened his vision for mentorship, equity, and how educators can shape students' lives beyond academics.
Looking Ahead
Darius plans to grow My Brother’s Keeper into a more structured program, expanding to reach younger students and partnering with fellow educators, high school mentors, and community organizations. His long-term goal is to ensure that every child has someone who sees their potential and walks alongside them in their journey.
“Leadership doesn’t always require a stage. Sometimes it means simply showing up, listening, and choosing to believe in a child no one else has”