Nationwide — Robert Burnside, a former principal from Kings Mill, Ohio, who lost his job after helping a homeless Black student stay in school, celebrated the teen’s graduation years after taking him in as his legal guardian. Burnside supported Landerius “DeDe” Hayes through a difficult period and helped him build a more stable future.
Hayes graduated from Kings High School in May 2026, nearly two years after Burnside risked his job to keep him in school. The former Lakota East High School principal watched proudly as Hayes walked across the stage to receive his diploma.
Hayes was a junior at Lakota East in 2024 when he was told to withdraw because he no longer had an address within the district. At the time, he was moving between friends’ homes, sleeping in his car, and using school resources to keep up with his classes despite his unstable living situation, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer.
Burnside, who was the school’s principal at the time, disagreed with the decision and allowed Hayes to continue attending classes while searching for a way to help him. He believed the teenager needed support, but his choice triggered a district investigation and placed his career at risk.
“On social media, people saying either I’m a pedophile or I embezzled [money],” Burnside said, describing the backlash he faced after the controversy became public.
District officials said Burnside’s decision created a potential liability issue because Hayes had been unenrolled. After nearly 20 years in education, Burnside resigned from Lakota and moved into the private sector.
Despite leaving his career behind, Burnside continued helping Hayes. He and his wife, Angel, later decided to become his legal guardians so he could have a safe home and continue his education.
The couple officially became Hayes’ guardians in February 2025. Hayes moved into their home and gained a new family, including four brothers and two sisters.
After graduating in 2026, Hayes celebrated the milestone with Burnside, whom he now calls “Pops.” He said receiving his diploma felt emotional and difficult to believe after everything he had experienced.
Now 18, Hayes plans to pursue a career in aviation while working as a car mechanic. He is also adjusting to life with a permanent home after years of uncertainty.
Burnside said he still misses his career in education but feels grateful for the relationship he built with Hayes. He believes helping students through difficult moments is one of the most important responsibilities of an educator.