“Honestly, education found me…”

Higher Definition Leadership and Empowerment Coaching

Professor LaToya Green

https://www.higherdefinitionlec.com/

“When I think about the future of education, it is just being incessant and being absolute about access for all students...”

In this powerful episode of the Black Educators Matter Project 500 Podcast, Professor LaToya Green shares her journey from an unexpected start in communication studies to becoming a nationally recognized debate coach, educator, and leadership developer. With teaching experiences in Kansas, North Carolina and Southern California, she reflects on the mentors who shaped her path, the challenges Black educators face in predominantly non-Black spaces, and the transformative impact of authenticity, representation, and cultural connection in the classroom.

“In this space, we are going to live and move in some freedom.”

Professor Green offers a candid look at the state of Black education, discussing its systemic barriers, its resilience, and its brilliance, while highlighting the classroom moments that reaffirm her purpose and the self-care practices that sustain her. She also discusses her leadership coaching company, Higher Definition Leadership and Empowerment Coaching, where she empowers individuals and organizations through workshops, keynotes, and curriculum rooted in personal growth and equity. With a vision driven by intersectionality and opportunity, she calls for continued investment in Black educators, Black institutions, and the communities they champion.

"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.