Chandler Junior High School and High School special education teacher and archery coach Tyrell Rhoades has been nominated for the 2018-2019 national LifeChanger of the Year award.

Mr. Rhoades was nominated by his wife, Aleisa Rhoades, for inspiring and leading students through the archery program they founded. He felt that by starting the program, they could reach many more children who were uninvolved or disenchanted with traditional sports, could not afford it, or were more interested in outdoor activities.

The couple began the program with five targets and 15 high schoolers. The program has now grown to include more than 130 students from third through twelfth grade, and Mr. Rhoades has led his teams to win division, district, state, national, and even international tournaments.

Mr. Rhoades’ dedication to exposing his students to as much as he can is reflective of his personal history. Growing up in an extremely poor logging family, he did not learn to read until later in life. He joined the military, where he gained experience and became passionate about archery and the outdoors. In addition to overseeing special needs students with his wife, he also teaches them outdoor skills and hunter safety.

“I believe he's a leader, a pillar of this community, and the epitome of what a teacher and life-long learner should be,” said Mrs. Rhoades.

Sponsored by the National Life Group Foundation, LifeChanger of the Year recognizes and rewards the very best K-12 educators and school district employees across the United States who are making a difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence, positive influence and leadership.