"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.

Erika DeWalt

Director of Talent and Leader Development; Former School Leader

“It’s important to have a seat at the table.”

In this episode of Black Educators Matter, Erika DeWalt explores why Black educators are essential to the fabric of education and community. She emphasizes that representation in schools builds belonging, trust, and cultural understanding for both students and parents. Erika shares how her experience at Tennessee State University revealed gaps in her own education and sparked a lifelong mission to ensure students see themselves reflected in what they learn. From her leadership journey to her reflections on the principalship, she offers a candid look at the immense pressure and emotional toll faced by Black educators, particularly amid teacher shortages, burnout, and a system that often overlooks their professional development and well-being.

“Be a part of the system building.”

Despite these challenges, Erika’s story is one of joy, resilience, and vision. She finds fulfillment in culturally affirming education—bringing history and celebration into classrooms and leading by example in her son’s school. Her commitment to self-care, mentorship, and community underscores the need for systemic change that supports educators as whole humans. Looking ahead, Erika envisions a future modeled after Black Wall Street—where Black students thrive in schools led by Black educators, grounded in culture, wellness, and purpose. Her legacy goal is clear: to empower Black women educators and create educational spaces that honor ancestry, affirm identity, and prepare the next generation to lead with confidence and joy.

"Black educators matter because they inspire the next generation to reach their full potential."

Dr. Gregory Ross

President, Head of School at West End School

https://www.ace-edservices.com/

"I strive to be the educator that my younger self needed."

In this enlightening episode, we are honored to welcome Dr. Gregory Ross, a dynamic leader and educator, who shares his powerful journey from a young boy in Paducah, Kentucky, to the president of the West End School in Louisville. Dr. Ross reflects on the profound influence of his mother and other educators, particularly highlighting the importance of representation in education and how it shaped his belief in the potential of every child.

"We must prioritize purpose over promotion."

Dr. Ross provides invaluable advice for first-year educators, underscoring the importance of humility, reverence and the willingness to learn from those around them. His call to action for Black educators is both inspiring and urgent: to recognize the power they hold in shaping the future and to instill a sense of excellence in their students.

"Education is not just in the classroom; it's a lifelong journey."

Dr. Letha Bell-Jackson

Early Childhood Educator and Doctorate in Christian Education

"Black educators matter because we are the bridge to understanding and empowerment."

In this enlightening episode of Black Educators Matter, we are thrilled to feature Dr. Letha Bell-Jackson, a dedicated educator with over 20 years of experience. Dr. Bell-Jackson shares her unique perspective on the importance of Black educators in shaping the lives of students and the broader community.

"Teaching is my life source."

Dr. Bell-Jackson reflects on her formative years in Chicago, where she experienced the challenges of a lack of Black representation in education. She emphasizes the critical role that educators play in fostering life skills and community engagement, particularly for parents. With a heart for mentorship, Dr. Bell-Jackson discusses her mission to empower families and nurture future generations.

Join us as we delve into Dr. Bell-Jackson's reflections on her career, the state of Black education in America, and her unwavering determination to uplift her community. Her passion for teaching and advocacy is a testament to the profound impact that Black educators have on all students.

"Black educators matter because we are continuing a legacy from years before us."

Shanimarie Ogilvie

First Grade Elementary Teacher

"I strive to set a high bar for my students because I know they can achieve it."

We are thrilled to welcome Shanimarie Ogilvie, a dedicated first-grade teacher with a rich background in education. Originally from Jamaica, Shanimarie reflects on her transformative journey from a predominantly Black educational experience in her home country to navigating the challenges of a predominantly white school system in the United States. She shares how her early educators laid the foundation for her belief in high expectations and the importance of representation in the classroom.

"Teaching reading is one of my biggest joys."
With 17 years of experience, Shanimarie has held various roles, including instructional coach and supervisor, but her passion for teaching reading remains at the forefront. She offers invaluable insights for new educators, emphasizing the significance of mastering classroom management and the importance of self-care to prevent burnout in a demanding profession. Shanimarie is the host of The Teachers Impact podcast.

"A Black educator destroys the myth of black inferiority and white supremacy."

Jeffrey Barnes

Math and Social Studies Teacher

"I strive to be the teacher that I needed when I was growing up."

In the latest episode of our podcast, we had the privilege of speaking with Jeffrey Barnes, affectionately known as Brother Jeff, a passionate educator who has dedicated his life to teaching mathematics and social studies. Jeffrey's journey into education is rooted in his family's legacy and his desire to make a difference in the lives of Black youth. He shares how his mother, a historian and one of the first Black students to integrate a university, inspired him to pursue a career in education.

"What brings me joy is when the light comes on in someone's eyes."

As a seasoned educator, Jeffrey offers valuable advice to first-year teachers. He encourages them to be patient with themselves, seek mentorship, and establish a healthy work-life balance. His own journey has not been without challenges, including a time when he considered leaving the profession. However, the support of his community and the realization of his passion for teaching brought him back to the classroom.

Episode Keywords

Black Educators, Education Journey, Representation In Education, Jeffrey Barnes, Importance Of Black Male Educators, Social Studies, Mathematics, Educational Legacy, Community Impact, Teaching Strategies, Student Engagement, Educational Challenges, Mentoring New Teachers, Emotional Learning, History Of Black Education, Overcoming Adversity, Youth Mentorship, Black History, Educational Transformation, Advocacy In Education