"We are the only ones that are going to save us."

Kecia Austin

Middle School Co-Teacher, Student Council Facilitator

"I've always said that Black educators represent liberation."

Kecia Austin, a Chicago middle school co-teacher and student council facilitator, shares how her path into education was shaped by a principal who saw her gift early and by her journey as a mother advocating for a son who learns differently. She reflects on why Black educators are essential to liberation, representation, and advocacy. Kecia describes the challenges of navigating school systems as both a parent and educator, the realities facing Black families amidst socioeconomic pressures, and the need for compassion in an era where social media often devalues education.

“They need to see someone who understands their world, that speaks their language, that validates their brilliance.”

Kecia’s approach centers joy, connection, and student voice. She creates a non-traditional classroom filled with music, movement, flexible seating, and leadership opportunities, ensuring students feel seen and supported holistically. She speaks candidly about sustaining herself through self-care, the urgent need for more Black men in education, and her desire to leave a legacy rooted in genuine care. With gratitude for the Black educators who shaped her, Kecia offers a vision of education anchored in representation, compassion, and the belief that every child deserves someone who truly sees them.

“I’m always trying to connect with them - that’s how I keep it joyful.”

Ms. Jazmine Cooper

Dancing with MISS COOP - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLZpL03egB4R0hbOT59IsjA

“Yall know yall love my energy.”

In this inspiring episode, Chicago dance educator Jazmine Cooper shares her journey into teaching, shaped by growing up with almost no Black educators and wanting to become the affirming presence she seldom saw. She explains why Black arts educators matter and how dance has become her tool for healing, empowerment, and identity-building for students. Jazmine opens up about the challenges Black arts teachers face in undervalued, underfunded, and over-tested school environments, and how she lets her choreography, her classroom culture, and her students’ transformation speak for themselves.

“Education should be as diverse as the students we teach.”

Jaysyn Green

History Teacher, Debate Coach

This week, we are joined by Jaysyn Green, a history teacher and debate coach from Compton, California. Jaysyn reflects on her journey into the classroom, inspired by an eighth-grade history teacher who helped her see the power of connecting personal experience to historical truth. She shares how moments of social unrest and the challenges of the last decade deepened her commitment to creating safe spaces where students—especially those who are first-generation or marginalized—can see themselves reflected and empowered through learning.

Jaysyn discusses the importance of Black educators in shaping classrooms that honor identity, truth, and critical thought. From navigating racism in private schools to coaching debate teams that amplify student voice, she highlights the need for culturally grounded teaching and diverse perspectives in education. The legacy she hopes to leave as an educator is being remembered for strength, innovation, and believes in the power of education to help students make sense of the world.