Mike Yates

Co-Founder of Guide, Keynote Speaker & Education Consultant

With more than 10 years of experience, I have seen my fair share of education projects, problems, and possibilities. From creating music and poetry programs in youth detention centers to creating literacy programs as the United Way's Program Coordinator to the traditional classroom, it is safe to say that I've done a lot.

Today you will find me helping to create a fresh and innovative model of school with Alpha. You will find me building Guide, a global life skills platform that helps high school students thrive in the future of work.

My mission is to transform the k-12 education experience.

I taught in public, private and charter schools for 5 years helping 89% of my students to earn commended on the Texas state standardized test and helping more than 75% of my students earn 4s and 5s on AP (Advanced Placement) Tests. I won teaching and coaching awards and still found myself unable to help kids the way they should be. I knew there had to be another way.

Here is what I am doing about it:

Today, I work tirelessly to disrupt and innovate school as a team leader at Alpha, an innovative, independent school that uses adaptive learning software in place of direct instruction.

Every student at Alpha performs in the top 10% of students their age on the MAP assessment. 99% of our students report that they love coming to school. Every student learns life skills, technical skills, and transferable skills. We are changing the way kids do school.

I consult and coach teachers and school leaders specializing in technology integration, creating love of school, experiential learning, culturally responsive teaching, and project-based learning.

I’m excited to be a larger part of the effort to transform education in a few ways:

1. would love to speak at your school or university about the future of education, teaching with technology, culturally responsive education, and careers.
2. I would love to help you train your high school or middle school faculty of teachers.
3. I would love to review your EdTech product or startup!