The King of Crown Heights

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Kennedy credits his team of veteran educators, young teachers, Teach for America recruits and a parent coordinator. "No one can work in isolation," he says. "My job is to get voices from the community and to keep the team motivated. I see our work like a chessboard. Each child is our king. We have to work to protect him and checkmate the forces of failure. This world is so harsh to children. I see myself as the keeper of the dream that is in every child, and I know we can succeed. That is my blessed hope."

Caroline Kennedy, an attorney and author, is vice chair of the New York City Fund for Public Schools. To learn more about supporting those who make a difference, visit time.com/powerofone