I started working in the 257 school district as a Special Education instructor at Jeffereson Elementary School and as the head wrestling coach during the 2013-2014 school year. In 2016 I applied to be the 3-5 Physical Education Instructor and was hired on as a district employee. In 2022 we began our adventure in the new Iola Elementary School. 

I started working at Emporia High School in 2009-2010. I worked at EHS in the Technology dept. and as a varsity wrestling coach for 5 years before coming to Iola.

I am married to Ann Marie Bates and we are expecting to have a child in May. We have one dog which is an old man. He love playing tug-of-war and going on walks. 

My hobies consist of a lot of out door physical activities such as hiking and backpacking, camping, cycling, jogging, kayaking, fishing etc. I also enjoy watching the birds in my back yard and growing plants. I have a small orchid collection and enjoy carnivorous plants.