CRESTWOOD, Mo. (KMOV.com) -- Teachers are responsible for much more than just the academic success of their students. A local teacher's incredible story has inspired him to change generations, and lead to an incredible recognition.
"I’m getting paid to have fun with kids, this is the best job in the world," Darrion Cockrell, or DC, said. He's a PE teacher at Crestwood Elementary.
He's been teaching for the last six years and his students love him.
"He's really funny and teaches us how to stay healthy and have fun at the same time," Caroline Dallman said.
His administrators are inspired by him.
"His story shows every kid that anything is possible," Assistant Principal Kit Norton said.
With all the joy he shares with his students, you'd never know he's been through more struggle than any kid should ever experience.