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1. DEF-ED
MS. USSIN
TEACHES
This expert on classroom
management reflects on what
makes for a great classroom
culture.
JASON
LOUDER
Educator turned actor,
Jason Louder and his
journey from the
classroom to the set and
back!
A LOUDER LESSON
ON LIFE
LYRICAL
ARTS
AMEN KUSH
S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1
MAGAZINE
PROFESSOR
LYRIC JONES
Successful emcee and professor
of lyricism keeps the art alive in
pedagogy.

3. DEF-ED
MAGAZINE
contact us
defedmagazine@icloud.com
www.defedmagazine.com

5. DEF-ED MAGAZINE
Advertising in DEF-ED Magazine
Interested in advertising your business in DEF-ED Magazine?
To reserve a space in an upcoming issue of DEF-ED Magazine,
email us at defedmagazine@icloud.com
Submissions
Theme: The Arts and Wellness
Submission Deadline: July 1st
Theme: Social Justice and Hip Hop Pedagogy
Submission Deadline: October 1st
Theme: Literacy and Activism
Submission Deadline: January 1st
Theme: School Culture and Social-Emotional Learning
Submission Deadline: May 1st
DEF-ED Magazine welcomes submissions for nonfiction, photography, and poetry. We’re looking for anyone with a
fresh voice and a compelling story to share, and we are particularly enthusiastic about championing emerging voices
in public education.
At the core, DEF-ED Magazine aims to provide a platform for innovative educators to share their stories in our online
magazine for education professionals. In each issue, a specific theme becomes the catalyst for articles, interviews,
stories, and poetry from renowned writers and lesser-known voices alike. DEF-ED Magazine is committed to
embracing diversity, inclusion, and equity.
Release Dates, Themes, and Submission Deadlines
FALL ISSUE RELEASE DATE: 1st Week of September 2021
WINTER ISSUE RELEASE DATE: 1st Week of December 2021
SPRING ISSUE RELEASE DATE: 1st Week of March 2022
SUMMER ISSUE RELEASE DATE: 1st Week of June 2022
We look for work that examines the new developments in public education.
Published pieces typically run from 400 to 1,200 words, but drafts of any length within the bounds of reason will be
considered. We ask that submissions include a one-sentence bio statement at the top or bottom of the submission.
All submissions must be original, exclusive to DEF-ED Magazine and, as a matter of security, embedded in the text of
an email, not as an attachment. Submissions may be sent to defedmagazine@icloud.com.

6. DEF-ED
A.J. KUSH
LOGIC AMEN
DR. MARQUITA BRADLEY
Contributors
This teacher, motivational speaker, poet, and mentor has had the
privilege of working with many Atlanta youth organizations and Metro
Atlanta Public Schools. Growing up in Savannah left a cultural mark that
shines through Kush’s art and mentorship. Community remains at the
center of everything he does. The city serves as the backdrop for his first
full-length book, Flicted. When he is not working, you can find this hip-hop
aficionado writing lyrics, spending time with family, and finding 1000
ways to stay in shape.
Logic Amen is a sun, father, recording artist, journalist, writer, educator and
former Family Preservation Therapist. Amen has a degree in English Literature,
a master's in teaching, and a master's in educational leadership. Amen is one of
the founding members of CORE which stands for Coalition of Restorative
Education. Amen considers himself to be a visionary learner and created the
Griot Party Experience to support healing in the marginalized community via
storytelling. Amen seeks to help the people he serves feel safe and important.
His life mission places a high premium on healing via education. Amen is
currently serving as an assistant principal at Lincoln High school in Tacoma
Washington. He lives in Seattle Washington. Contact Logic Amen.
logicamen@gmail.com / Facebook: Logic Amen / Instagram: @quotesbylogic
Twitter: @thelogicamen
Marquita Jackson-Bradley, a retired Associate Professor of Curriculum and
Instruction, has over 40 years of teaching experience that include elementary
teacher, curriculum developer, and educator of preservice teachers. Her
research includes culturally responsive teaching strategies, but her passion lies
in equipping educators with health and wellness strategies through meditation,
breathe work, and mindfulness.

7. CONTENTS
DEF-ED
MAGAZINE
8 Editor's Note
10 Advanced Lit - Book Recommendations
11 A Louder Lesson on Life by André Benito Mountain
14 How Culturally Responsive Teachers Begin Their School Year by Dr. Marquita Jackson-Bradley
17 Critical Race Theory - A Logical Assessment by Logic Amen
22 Lyrical Arts by Amen Kush
25 A DEFinED Palate by Tanesha Mountain
27 DJ Neeek Nyce Offers a New Spin on Teaching the Culture
29 Art Dojo: Cut from a Different Cloth by André Benito Mountain
32 Blue Light District by Patrick Farmer
38 Ms. Ussin Teaches. Remixing Classroom Management by Iantha Ussin
43 Professor Lyric Jones by André Benito Mountain
46 Children's Lit Review by Rene Crowe-Harris

8. elcome to the world of DEF-ED Magazine!
We are inspired by the communities in which we
serve and by the youth we teach. DEF-ED Magazine's slogan is
"Our Schools. Our Communities. Our Legacy." Finally, we have a
magazine that speaks directly to the beauty and complexity of
teaching in urban spaces, hip-hop culture, culturally relevant
pedagogy, and the professional learning that takes place beyond
the conference room.
For the last several years, as I've written articles and blogs for
some well-known magazines and platforms, I've sought spaces for
teaching and leading that fully reflect the type of educator I've
become: culturally responsive and social-justice oriented. In equal
measure, I've sought to bring a level of innovation to communities
that have been traditionally underserved. Working in collaboration
with a talented group of friends, we created a space where we
could share ideas, content, and experiences with other educators.
Educators deserve a space to showcase their genius with like-
minded folks. It has been said that when there is not a seat for
you at the table, bring a chair or build a table. Welcome to our
table!
In this issue, we are fortunate to have contributions from many
talented educators. Our music review by Amen Kush is called
Literary Arts. He reviews new albums by J. Cole and Luey Price.
We also have a timely piece on meditation and teaching by Dr.
Marquita Jackson-Bradely, a retired professor of education.
Our feature this month highlights a rising star, Jason
Louder, professional actor and storyteller, whose journey
began in the classroom as a teacher. We also have a
wonderful conversation with the multi-talented Lyric
Jones, a successful recording artist and professor of hip-
hop lyricism at the Musician's Institute in Hollywood, CA.
DEF-ED Magazine is finally here. We aspire to Develop -
Engage - and Flourish. Let's build.
André Benito Mountain
editor's note
EDITOR IN CHIEF

9. What
What
What
we're
we're
we're
reading...
reading...
reading...

10. It’s 1989 Savannah, Georgia. Dez is
thirteen and smelling himself. “Born
with the gift of gab,” his talent quickly
turns into a love affair with words.
Derrick “Dez” Allen wants nothing
more than to be on the big stage
busting rhymes like KRS-1, Slick Rick,
and EPMD. He seems to be on his
way when he discovers girls. Raging
hormones, peer pressure, and the
allure of money and drugs impact
Dez’s life in ways that no one sees
until one terrible "flicted" decision –
one that could cost him everything.
Flicted is a fast-paced coming of age
rollercoaster that will have you
laughing, reminiscing with friends,
singing your favorite songs, and
drifting away on childhood memories.
ADVANCED LIT
D E F - E D ' S R E C O M M E N D E D B O O K S
D E F - E D M A G A Z I N E | 9
Get ready to meet Alahna,
Kimbrel, Natasha, and a few other
girls who find themselves in
situations that teach them about
pressure, integrity, purity, anger,
family, jealousy, dishonesty,
purpose, temptation and more!
Stories That Teach Girls: A 30-
Day Walk Through Girls’ Life
Lessons with God’s Word is an
intimate, personal workbook for
pre-teen and teen girls, designed
to take them on a journey through
their own hearts and minds. As
they dig into God’s word for
themselves, they’ll discover who
they are, who God created them
to be, and how God wants them
to live.
Egostrip has been celebrated
worldwide and is now continuing its
journey to become a beautifully
bound hardback book. Book 1
features 100 handcrafted
illustrations of hip-hop artists and
scenes from lyrics of classic hip-hop
songs. These are accompanied by
personal anecdotes about the
creative ideas behind each image
and an insight into Dan Lish's
creative process. Following years of
support from Pharoahe Monch, DJ
Prince Paul, Biz Markie, De La Soul,
and many more, this book is a must
have for all art, hip hop, and music
lovers...for folks that have a passion
for the craft and the culture in all its
forms of creativity.
Title: Stories That Teach Girls
Author: Iantha Ussin
Title: Egostrip
Author: Dan Lish
Title: Flicted
Author: A.J. Kush

11. A
LOUDER
LESSON
ON LIFE

12. It was a rainy Sunday afternoon when I met with Jason
Louder in downtown Atlanta to discuss his recent work on
the series WuTang: An American Saga. He was cast as
Jamaican drug czar, Cressy, whose Jamaican accent and
aggressive nature defies the calm Southern charm Jason
Louder naturally exudes. His recurring role in the CW's
Black Lightning as Frank "Two Bits" Tanner shows that his
reach in film and stage is ever evolving.
The restaurant was a quaint spot bustling with patrons
there for the gourmet omelets and the bottomless mimosas.
Jason walked in with a beaming smile. We embraced as
two old friends should, and we began a conversation that
took us from our college days in Statesboro, Georgia at
Georgia Southern University to the soundstages of
Hollywood and back to Atlanta's thriving film industry.
Jason Louder:
From the
classroom
to the big
screen
BY ANDRE BENITO MOUNTAIN

13. Jason Louder describes himself as an
abundant liver and lover of life. He
multitasks as an actor, teacher, mentor
and coach from his home base of Atlanta,
Georgia. How did this College Park
native become one of the stars of stage
and television in 2021? Jason describes
it as a matter of following one's calling.
He recalls a time when he was attending
Georgia Southern University in the
1990's as an active member of the Black
Student Alliance (BSA) and visited a local
elementary school to read to the
children. He describes it as a
transformative experience for him,
changing his trajectory and leading him
down a path of wanting to do more to
shape the lives of children. "We were
reading to children, and I remember
thinking....I can do this....I might want to
do this as a profession." Shortly after
that experience, Jason was elected to
become the president of the Black
Student Alliance at Georgia Southern
University. He led initiatives that helped
to enrich the college experience of the
15,000 students at the university. While
it was too late for him to change his
major from Sociology to Education, he
did find himself working in metro-
Atlanta as a teacher at Imhotep
Academy, an Afrocentric private school,
a few years later at the request of a
family friend.
As our bottomless mimosas began to
arrive, the conversation became more
organic. We reminisced about a Common
concert in Savannah in 1996 and his
experiences as a member of the iconic
hip-hop group Unxnoun Ceeds. Jason
Louder has the uncanny ability to
consistently reinvent himself,
transforming into new incarnations of
himself that best serve what the universe
needs. He is most naturally the empath
who is as comfortable as the emcee on the
mic as he is the hype man or the leading
man on the stage. Nevertheless, he
understands how to move strategically in
an industry where tastes and tides shift
on a continuous basis. He secures roles
that align with his creative core and
challenge him to tap into new facets of his
gift.
In describing his gradual transition from
the classroom to the world of acting, he
recalls a friend who encouraged him to go
to an audition in Atlanta. He auditioned
for multiple productions and was
subsequently sought out to star in three
of them. The director intervened and
advised him that given his inexperience as
an actor at that point, he should just focus
on two of the three. Over time, his passion
for acting began to flourish. The
administrator at the school where he was
teaching met with him and suggested that
he follow his passion and pursue his
acting career. It was a wise decision.
Jason Louder has the uncanny
ability to consistently reinvent
himself, transforming into new
incarnations of himself that best
serve what the universe needs. He is
most naturally the empath who is
as comfortable as the emcee on the
mic as he is the hype man or the
leading man on the stage.
His credits include Swamp Murders,
Dogwood, and the upcoming They Cloned
Tyrone starring Jamie Foxx and John
Boyega. He is a regular in stage
productions in and around Atlanta, but
Jason has also returned to his teaching
roots, finding time to coach other actors
on their craft. He has never fully closed
the door on his inner teacher, but has
instead incorporated those talents into
his work as a creative. He finds time to
visit schools and provide story telling
events as "Babatunde the Griot".
Whether at a public library, summer
camp, or the stage of an elementary
school, Jason has never forgotten the
importance of giving back to the children
in our community.
Jason's story of transitions and
reinventions is inspirational. It
underscores the potential transformative
power of a greater emphasis on the arts in
our schools. Thankfully, he found his way
to the stage to bless the world with his
talents by way of the classroom and a
chance audition at the prompting of a
friend. His connection to hip-hop culture
has informed his approach to his acting in
a way that makes it more authentic. The
world of film is just getting to know the
voice and talent of Jason, but given his
broad talent, humble persona, and
courageous spirit, his voice will soon be
much louder.
D E F - E D M A G A Z I N E | 1 2

14. How Culturally
Responsive Teachers
D R . M A R Q U I T A J A C K S O N - B R A D L E Y
b e g i n t h e i r
s c h o o l y e a r

15. I just recently retired from 40ish years in the field of
education, and in those 40 years, I have learned and seen a
lot. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting classrooms across this
country and more recently, here in the Atlanta area. I have
witnessed excellent teaching from both pre-service and
in-service teachers. I learned a lot of great instructional
strategies. In this article, I will share some of the most
effective culturally responsive ways to begin your school
year, based on my observations throughout the years.
Most educators know that how you begin your first few
weeks of school is often how you end the last weeks of
school. If you begin your school year without rules and the
implementation of behavior management techniques, then
it will be a difficult school year for you and the students,
where little teaching and learning occurs.
How Culturally
Responsive Teachers
Begin Their School Year
B Y D R . M A R Q U I T A J A C K S O N - B R A D L E Y
Consider beginning the school year with
implementing the following culturally
responsive strategies and you may find your
school year going smoothly.
1. Show you care. Students come into
classrooms with various needs. School is
often one of the safest places for them.
Make your classroom that room where
students are free to grow and develop in
positive, social-emotional ways. Getting
care from you will be that light that they
need. Treat students fairly and equitably.
You can care about your students and be
firm at the same time. Be that warm
demander.
2. Learn your students right away. Like the
first day of school, right away. Some ways to
get to know them can include interest
inventories, All About Me booklets or
posters.
3. Create rituals and routines right away.
Like on the first day of school, right away.
Then, take the first two weeks of school to
model for your students your expectations
on behavior, movement around the
classroom and the building, where to turn
in assignments, if they need permission to
get materials and/or supplies, restroom use,
etc. Not only should you model for them,
but you absolutely must practice with them.
Create classroom norms that are applicable
to everyone. Create them as a class. Norms
ought to be shared every day. In my college
classes, we created norms as a group, and
we took turns reading them every time we
met.
D E F - E D M A G A Z I N E 1 4

16. I included what I needed from them, they included
what they needed from me, and we shared what we
needed to feel safe and valued in our class. Our ritual
included me first greeting them, and then going over
the agenda for the day. Next was reading of the norms,
followed by five minutes of meditation. Then, we
started class. I was consistent with this routine and it
was something my students expressed that they liked.
The following resource is from The Art of Education.
They have wonderful resources and lots of
instructional protocols. Check out the resource here:
https://theartofeducation.edu/2017/08/08/3-benefits-
creating-classroom-expectations-students/
4. Learn how your students learn best. Are they tactile,
auditory, or visual? Do they work well in groups?
Alone? Most students, like adults, learn in multi-modal
ways. Be sure to structure your lessons with
combinations of the learning styles and intelligences.
If you use a platform such as PowerPoint, be sure
to break up the presentations with discussions or
movement around the classroom. We all like to be
engaged. Research shows that students learn best
and keep information in long-term memory when
they are actively engaged in learning.
5. Assess students throughout the lessons and in
multiply ways. Assess their knowledge prior to the
lesson, during instruction by turn-n-talks, and
after the lesson by using a ticket out the door.
Graphic organizers are great tools to utilize for
assessments. Assess in ways that are fun and
relevant such as gamifying. Students love to play
games and like to compete. Make it competitive by
playing Kahoot or Jeopardy, for example.
Try to incorporate some or all of these strategies
into your daily routines as they will help to create
an intellectually, socially, and emotionally safe
classroom. Balance care and push. Challenge your
students to be intellectual thinkers and learners.
Value the different ways they may tackle a problem.
Love them and care for them, If you do that, then
you should have a good year.
Marquita Jackson-Bradley is a retired Associate
Professor of Curriculum and Instruction who has
over 40 years of teaching experience that includes
elementary teacher, curriculum developer, and
educator of pre-service teachers. Her research
includes culturally responsive teaching strategies,
but her passion lies in equipping educators with
health and wellness strategies through meditation,
breathe work, and mindfulness.
D E F - E D M A G A Z I N E | 1 5

17. PURE
LOGIC
W O R D S O F
W I S D O M F R O M

18. The opponents of CRT (Critical Race
Theory) state they don’t approve of it
because it studies the history that
exclusively targets white people as the
group who created laws to maintain
White supremacy and institutional racism.
CRT exposes how racism is embedded in
the American legal system and
institutionalized to maintain white
privilege or a sense of supremacy. The
opponents of CRT want this curriculum to
be illegal to teach. Some Black and Brown
opponents who are the descendants of
enslaved Africans argue they do not want
their children learning a curriculum that
teaches them they are oppressed. Many of
these people alleged this is what CRT
does. Keeping this in mind, not only does
this movement seek to take away
educators' first amendment right to free
speech, but it will also technically deny
educators the right to teach the
constitution, which is a legal document
that defines Black people as three-fifths of
a human being.
"CRT exposes how
racism is embedded in
the American legal
system and
institutionalized to
maintain White
privilege or a sense of
supremacy."
Critical Race
Theory: A Logical
Assessement
Therefore, it is embedded in our
laws that our legal system
recognizes Black people as not
being fully human. Denying the
education and teaching of how this
country is institutionally racist allows
the system to filibuster and deny the
harm caused, which directly impacts
the legitimacy of reparations. They
ain’t slick. This is an attempt to get
us emotional, keep us dependent on
their systems of oppression, and
thus, distract us from focusing on
building our own institutions that
will create rites of passage and value
systems to improve our quality of
life. I know football fields of sand
that are slicker than this approach.
That is all…passive aggressive
oppression on…
D E F - E D M A G A Z I N E 1 4 8

19. L o g i c A m e n i s a s u n , f a t h e r , r e c o r d i n g a r t i s t , j o u r n a l i s t , w r i t e r , e d u c a t o r ,
a n d f o r m e r F a m i l y P r e s e r v a t i o n T h e r a p i s t . A m e n h a s a d e g r e e i n E n g l i s h
L i t e r a t u r e , a m a s t e r ' s i n t e a c h i n g , a n d a m a s t e r ' s i n e d u c a t i o n a l
l e a d e r s h i p . A m e n i s o n e o f t h e f o u n d i n g m e m b e r s o f C O R E , w h i c h s t a n d s
f o r C o a l i t i o n o f R e s t o r a t i v e E d u c a t i o n . A m e n c o n s i d e r s h i m s e l f t o b e a
v i s i o n a r y l e a r n e r . H e c r e a t e d t h e G r i o t P a r t y E x p e r i e n c e t o s u p p o r t
h e a l i n g i n t h e m a r g i n a l i z e d c o m m u n i t y v i a s t o r y t e l l i n g . A m e n s e e k s t o
h e l p t h e p e o p l e h e s e r v e s f e e l s a f e a n d i m p o r t a n t . H i s l i f e m i s s i o n p l a c e s
a h i g h p r e m i u m o n h e a l i n g v i a e d u c a t i o n . A m e n i s c u r r e n t l y s e r v i n g a s a n
a s s i s t a n t p r i n c i p a l a t L i n c o l n H i g h S c h o o l i n T a c o m a , W a s h i n g t o n . H e
l i v e s i n S e a t t l e , W a s h i n g t o n .
C o n t a c t L o g i c A m e n : l o g i c a m e n @ g m a i l . c o m
F a c e b o o k : L o g i c A m e n / I n s t a g r a m : q u o t e s b y l o g i c / T w i t t e r : @ t h e l o g i c a m e n
D E F - E D M A G A Z I N E 1 9

21. Flicted is available on Amazon,
BarnesandNoble.com, and AJKush.com.

22. LYRICAL ARTS
When the first song, "Mastery," plays, it's like you
are transported to a place where all is possible,
no matter the circumstance. There is so much
beauty in the ways his words lay on the track. He
has perfect timing and paints vivid pictures of his
experiences.
As the third song, "Money Machine," plays, I felt
the urge to roll down my car window and yell out
the infectious hook to the world. The second half
of the album takes on a truly inspirational tone.
Songs like "Pray for Me," "Homecoming," and
"What We Gone Do" are truly street gospel with
Luey droppin' wisdom beyond his years. Even
when some songs are darkened by his choices,
hope is always present.
The album rounds out with anthems that let
Luey show his versatility and ability to influence
the listener with powerful songs. "2 F's" and the
title cut, "By Any Dreams Necessary," showcase
this well. Finally, on the final track, "Old Marlow
Road," he caps the project with a personal
testimony that leaves you wanting more. It's an
ode to his home, his way of life, and his artistry.
Solid 4 out of 5
By A.J. Kush
D E F - E D M U S I C
D E F - E D M A G A Z I N E | 2 2
Five Fists: A Masterpiece | Four Fists: Official
Three Fists: Solid | Two Fists: Bearable
One Fist: A No-Go
Being from South Georgia, I was excited about
this album. The cover spoke to the days of old
when the community gathered and love and
laughter filled the air. The feel of the entire
project is stripped down rap bravado soul. It's the
portrait of a young man who believes in his
dream, his family, and his ability to maneuver in
street life and find a way to overcome.
This young man is the talented Luey Price. His
flow is distinct and full of slick, confident one
liners that always allude to something deeper.
The production is straight out of the mud and is
covered in pain and the type of prestige won in
struggle. The first time I listened, I pressed play
and let his debut album, By Any Dreams Necessary,
go from beginning to end.
Album: By Any Dreams Necessary
Artist: Luey Price

23. LYRICAL ARTS
By A.J. Kush
D E F - E D M U S I C
D E F - E D M A G A Z I N E | 2 3
Five Fists: A Masterpiece | Four Fists: Official
Three Fists: Solid | Two Fists: Bearable
One Fist: A No-Go
It contains soulful samples, 808 heavy drums, and new aged
synths that fully command your attention. Although J. Cole
usually handles the bulk of his production, I enjoyed the
change of pace with all of his guest producers. They added
more variety and helped each song sound new and distinct.
From the raw unapologetic first track that ignites this album
to the last song, Cole breaks down his game, the challenges
of life, and his vision of the future. His greatness is displayed
with mood-altering anthems, witty concepts, and lyrical bars
full of multiple meanings and relatable social commentary.
I love music that is new and hip that can feed my soul.
Whether he gives you his more traditional east coast flow or
the southern bluesy drawl, "singy" style, The Off-Season
provides philosophical lessons on money, politics, love, and
the struggles of a young Black man.
As a parent, I was also able to have many thought-provoking
conversations about life choices and dreams with my
daughters after listening to the album. We rode around
enjoying standout songs like "Pride is the Devil," "Let Go My
Hand," and "Close". These songs forced us to think about how
pride affects our choices and helped me see that I have to
learn not to be overprotective with them as they grow. They
really liked his rapping style and catchy choruses. J. Cole's The
Off-Season is not his greatest effort to date, but it is a solid
addition that music listeners should love and appreciate, no
matter the generation.
4 out of 5
"Are you doing this work to facilitate growth or
become famous? What's more important, getting?
Or letting go?"
This quote from J. Cole's song, "Climb Back,"
symbolizes the spirit of this album. For me, that
spirit says "I have endured trials and offered the
world hope with refreshing ideas and the
undying will power to achieve." This album is J.
Cole's sixth release, and even though it is
entitled The Off-Season, it is anything but time
off. This album contains a fiery introspective feel
that demonstrates hunger, passion, and a
commitment to dope song writing.
Album: The Off-Season
Artist: J. Cole

24. Your food is
supposed to be your
medicine and your
medicine is supposed
to be your food.
~African Proverb
D E F - E D M A G A Z I N E | 2 4

25. A DEFINED PALATE
When my husband approached me to write a blog for DEF-EDucation, I thought… what could
I, a plant-based eating, herbal tea drinking, house plant lover from Los Angeles offer a platform
geared toward education?
It occurred to me, however, that the right foods and a good education are like finding a fine
wine to enjoy with an exquisite meal--it's an ideal pairing. There are many parallels with a good
diet and education. In order to function at a high level, the body needs the right balance of
essential nutrients to keep healthy, alert, and sharp. The Food and Drug Administration
emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet. We have even heard from such pillars in our
community like Dr. Sebi and the Honorable Elijah Muhammed on how important it is to
nurture our bodies with the right foods for optimal health and functionality. We do not live to
eat; we eat to live.
Shokuiku is the Japanese word for food education. It is described as the acquisition of
knowledge as it relates to food and nutrition. It is a school of thought that encourages healthy
eating habits. It's a practice that encourages us to change our relationship with food and how
we think about food.
This idea of mindful eating is so prevalent in Japan that it has been implemented in the school
systems there. With this philosophy in mind, I’d like to share a simple Japanese dish.
By Tanesha Mountain
Culture and Vegan Cuisine
D E F - E D M A G A Z I N E | 2 5

26. Avocado Rolls
Ingredients
2 cups sushi rice
3 cups water
rice vinegar
salt
cane sugar
2 large ripe avocados. Peeled pitted and sliced
nori sheets
Start by cooking your rice according to package directions.
Simmer rice vinegar, cane sugar, and salt. Once dissolved, pour
mixture into the cooked rice. Stir. Set aside to cool for about 30
minutes.
Place nori sheet on cutting board. Using a plastic spoon (the
rice is less likely to stick to plastic), spread rice to one side and
leave about a 1/4 inch uncovered on the other side.
Place slices of avocado about 1/3 inch away from the side with
rice spread to the corner. Using wet hands, gently lift the nori
sheet. Begin rolling from the side. Be gentle and firm. The shape
should resemble a log. Seal with a bit of water.
Repeat this process for the remaining nori sheets.
Using a sharp knife, make 1/2 inch slices from one end of the
log to the other. Then, arrange each slice face down on a plate.
Serve with soy sauce or liquid aminos, pickled ginger, and
wasabi paste.
Drink of choice: green tea or plum saki
A DEFINED PALATE
Culture and Vegan Cuisine (continued)
D E F - E D M A G A Z I N E | 2 6
We have even heard from such pillars in
our community like Dr. Sebi and the
Honorable Elijah Muhammed on how
important it is to nurture our bodies with
the right foods for optimal health and
functionality.
T A N E S H A M O U N T A I N

27. When we think about STEAM education,
most of us don't consider the work of a
DJ as STEAM related. Philadelphia's DJ
Neeek Nyce brings a new energy to the
world of education and hip hop as she
holds virtual parties for schools and
helps teach the craft to girls interested in
the art of DJing.
I first encountered Vernique Fields,
professionally known as DJ Neeek Nyce,
at the Next Level Speakers Academy in
Atlanta, Georgia. As chance would have it,
the only available seat at this event was
at the table where she was seated. She
embodies the ambitious entrepreneurial
energy that has helped to turn hip-hop
culture into the most influential musical
genre in modern times. Poised and
professional when discussing her craft
and passion, she possesses the uncanny
ability to immediately connect with
audiences of adults and children once the
records start to spin.
DJ NEEEK NYCE OFFERS A NEW SPIN
ON TEACHING THE CULTURE
D E F - E D M A G A Z I N E | 2 7
by André Benito Mountain

28. D J N E E E K N Y C E
O f f e r s a N e w S p i n o n T e a c h i n g t h e C u l t u r e ( c o n t i n u e d )
After sharing stories about our mutual love of
hip-hop culture, DJ Neeek Nyce asked me
about my school. I explained that we were
trying to maintain the enthusiasm for learning
among our students during the school closure
due to the pandemic. Many classes felt
disconnected because they were only meeting
virtually. Our story was not unlike that of the
schools she'd encountered in Philadelphia
that were also trying to navigate a virtual
space for instruction.
She shared that much of her work in
Philadelphia was in and around supporting
and motivating youth at local recreation
centers. She had just flown in from Philly that
day and was networking with other
attendees at the event looking to expand
their brands. Not only does she DJ at
corporate events and schools, but she also
manages a cadre of female DJs and works to
educate young women about the science of
her craft.
DJ Neeek Nyce believes in giving back. Once
she returned to Philadelphia, she contacted
my team and set up a virtual block party for
every grade level at the school. Teachers and
students were able to log in from home and
spend time vibing to a mix of hip hop, R&B,
and pop hits that brought us together in a
virtual way. She is active in her community
as the creator of the International Kidz DJ
Café, a youth program supported by the
Philadelphia Parks and Recreation that
gives children a chance to interact with
professional DJs and work with turntables
and controllers.
BEFORE THE EMCEE TOOK CENTER STAGE, THE DJ WAS THE
ORIGINAL MASTER OF CEREMONIES IN HIP-HOP CULTURE.
For more information on DJ Neeek Nyce,
follow her on Instagram @dj_neeeknyce
or email bookings@iflentertainment.com.
D E F - E D M A G A Z I N E | 2 8

29. cut from a
different
cloth
BY ANDRE BENITO MOUNTAIN
Rasheem Nurse has always been a man who
thought for himself. He credits his mother in
helping him to develop a strong sense of
individuality as he matured. On trips to New
York, he would pick out clothing and ask her
what she thought. She'd say, "I'm not the one
who's gonna have to wear it." So as his sense
of style evolved, so did his individuality and
creativity. He described himself as a certified
"sneakerhead" long before the term gained
traction in our lexicon. Faced with the dilemma
of his pants covering his shoes, Rasheem
began altering the way the pants were cut. "I
said I gotta let my sneakers shine, so I tapered
the legs." These early experiences were an
inkling into what was to come. Today, he is the
creative force behind Art Dojo International, a
streetwear line with signature pieces that
speak to those cut from a different cloth.
D E F - E D M A G A Z I N E | 2 9

30. WHEN YOU ARE
UNAPOLOGETICALLY
YOUR AUTHENTIC SELF,
ONLY THEN CAN YOU
TRULY BE FREE. WE
BELIEVE IN WEARING
WHAT YOU LIKE NOT
BECAUSE IT'S POPULAR,
BUT BECAUSE IT SPEAKS
TO YOUR SPIRIT.
H T T P S : / / W W W . A R T D O J O I N T E R N A T I O N A L . C O M /
D E F - E D M A G A Z I N E | 3 0

31. Rasheem draws inspiration from words and music. He often uses
music as the backdrop for his work. A series of pieces he is
currently working on was inspired by the song "Harlem River
Drive" by Bobbi Humphrey, a Jazz flutist. The track is from
Humphrey's third album, released in 1973 on the Blue Note label.
Like a Jazz musician, Rasheem has found his own rhythm during
the global pandemic. He has valued solitude as fuel for new ideas.
"As much as I am a people person, I also am a loner", he shares.
"Being alone has been fantastic. You gotta know yourself." He
suggests that getting to know oneself is one of the keys to living
a fulfilling life.
Rasheem says his experience at Georgia Southern University was
the best four years of his life. It was there that he first began to
develop his own identity. He remembers "rolling in packs" on the
campus and deciding one day that he didn't want to go to the
burger joint to eat. He pulled away from the group and decided
to hit the all-you-can-eat joint by himself. "It was the most
liberating experience. Get to know yourself. Take yourself out on
a date. Once you free yourself from the bondage of what other
people think about you, that really will allow you to spread your
wings."
One of the books Raheem's been reading lately is Dapper Dan:
Made in Harlem. The book chronicles the journey of Daniel Day,
legendary fashion designer who helped to shape the look of Hip-
Hop in the 80's and 90's. Another book he has been reading is The
Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Classon. Rasheem describes it
as a book of parables that helps readers "understand the wealth
mindset".
Art Dojo International is the space where Rasheem shares the
things he loves, whether he has reworked a piece or created it
from scratch. He encourages, "Be yourself and do the things you
are passionate about. In doing so, you'll be amazed at what type
of things come out and what you'll create." The brand has found
early support from Erykah Badu and many others in the hip-hop
community because it speaks to the originality that has always
been a part of the culture. "I really applaud educators who really
promote creativity and out-of-the-box thinking. Those are the
educators that we need to see more of."
cut from a different cloth
C O N T I N U E D
Spreading Wings
It Was Written
"I REALLY APPLAUD EDUCATORS
WHO REALLY PROMOTE CREATIVITY
AND OUT-OF-THE-BOX THINKING.
THOSE ARE THE EDUCATORS THAT WE
NEED TO SEE MORE OF."
RASHEEM NURSE
FOUNDER, ART DOJO
INTERNATIONAL
artdojointernational
D E F - E D M A G A Z I N E | 3 1

33. sun sets over a solemn society
flashing blue lights darken the atmosphere,
blaring sirens deafen empathetic ears
just a routine traffic stop,
there emerges a cop
pulling over a “person of interest”
what reason could it be…
out of state license plate?
failure to properly signal?
air freshener hanging on the rearview mirror?
cited for a busted taillight?
busted tales light up and incite
moments to follow will cause
sky clouds to saturate with tears
raining down our worst thoughts and fears
thinking of Philando Castille…
hands on the steering wheel
COMPLY
no sudden false moves
COMPLY
be extra, extra nice, but not too polite
COMPLY
moment so unnerving
COMPLY
inform them that you have a gun
COMPLY
at gunpoint, already the accused
tension builds and ensues
“Hands up where I can see them!”
COMPLY
barking orders and commands
COMPLY
“Let me see ID and registration”
“Let me see your hands!”
Which one you want, I don’t understand
Does NOT COMPUTE!
I repeat Does NOT COMPUTE.
BLUE
BLUELIGHT DISTRICT
LIGHT DISTRICT
BY PATRICK FARMER

34. Stop being human and program myself to respond
In a subservient role I have rehearsed in order to get home.
The voice of truth is muted and convoluted
In split-second decisions where reason’s viewpoint is deluded
But their day in court they live to see
thinking of my three young kings at home,
why do I feel this anxious uneasiness steady rise within me
when they reach their teenage years and beyond?
Because for us black men, our complexion is a weapon,
And our presence is a smoking gun…
public unrest, beyond angry, way past annoyed
Especially when four cops can’t restrain George Floyd,
Tensions rise, in the eyes of one, he’s a sizeable guy,
Once handcuffed, still considered a threat,
Held faced down from the back by two officers,
while the other with a knee
Pins him down on his neck
For over nine minutes, hear his painful whimpers,
His gasping for air, his silent scream for life,
Too casual and too calm of a response to cries of distress,
No sense of care or alarm, desensitized to causing harm,
First aid administered too late,
Hopelessly waiting for imminent death
The number of incidences like these seems endless
Wondering how we can ever contend this
Gaping wounds continue to widen, who can mend this?
A lost cause filled with tragic flaws…who can win this?
at gunpoint, already the accused
tension builds and ensues
EYES daring, fearing him to move and speak,
looks suspicious, hmm... suspicious... the eyes perceived,
walking through a neighborhood wearing a hoodie,
armed with Skittles and Arizona iced tea,

35. or jogging down the street while black,
stoking flames of hate and anger…
STRANGER DANGER!
perception pervades reality distorting mentality
from what is real and what seems...
God forbid as a citizen if one questions authority
Non-compliant is what you’ll be deemed
gunshot fires, fueling the fire, situation’s dire
now I understand resisting arrest can cause problems
but it doesn’t have to warrant an appointment
to be placed in a coffin
when I see way too often many of our White counterparts
raise all kinds of hell in rebelling against authorities
Back in my mind, I retreat to my thoughts
at gunpoint, already the accused
tension builds and ensues
I hear Louis Armstrong singing that raspy, galvanizing tune
“What did I do to be so black and blue?”
Though the question is rhetorical
Can’t help but wonder if we’re condemned to be categorical
Classifying and dividing ourselves
Into finite particles of dust to be blown and swept away
On this bittersweet Earth, having been made dirt of ourselves
Tucked away on forgotten shelves of truth, mystery, and legend
The history of a people with power of infinity times seven
With the hell many have endured,
sometimes it’s hard to conceive a heaven
death, oppression, and the pursuit of sadness,
silhouettes of sackcloth drape over a nation,
wondering will she ever rise from the ashes
of these tragic situations
and see justice delivered in this lifetime,
or in the next one deferred…
Patrick N. Farmer, a native of
Georgia, has had a love for
writing and poetry since the 8th
grade. Through poetry he has
discovered his niche, where he
can express his thoughts and
feelings on a wide range of
issues. He continually seeks to
inspire, challenge and galvanize
the hearts of those who venture
out to read his work. Mr. Farmer
has been in the field of
education for 15 years and
continues to seek ways to
motivate and engage this
generation of aspiring
teenagers.

36. “A GOOD TEACHER,
LIKE A GOOD
ENTERTAINER
FIRST MUST HOLD
HIS AUDIENCE'S
ATTENTION, THEN
HE CAN TEACH HIS
LESSON.”
-- JOHN HENRIK
CLARKE
- N A T A L I E + J O S H

37. F
E
A
T
U
R
E
S
T
O
R
Y

38. MEET MS. USSIN
When did you decide to become an educator?
I decided to officially become an educator in 2006, but I'd known in my heart as early as 1st grade that I'd be a
teacher. I was born to teach. I considered other things when I was in high school and college, but they never stuck.
There was a gravitational pull from within that always drew me back to teaching.
What is it that you love about being an educator or working with teachers and children?
There is nothing more satisfying...nothing more fulfilling than the moment when a student "gets it". When that light
comes on for a student and they have a new, exciting understanding of a concept they knew nothing of, or may have
struggled with before, my world is okay.
You recently left the classroom to take your work to the next level. Tell us about your new venture.
I left the classroom to teach pre-service and beginning teachers how to stay. Throughout my last few years in the
classroom, I grew tired of seeing new, enthusiastic teachers burn out in their first semester and completely leave the
profession after their first or second year because they couldn't manage their classrooms. If they weren't leaving due
to an inability to manage their classrooms, it was likely their exit was because they didn't have enough training with
effective instructional strategies. There's a pressing need for new teachers to be nurtured, encouraged, empowered,
and equipped, and veteran teachers should be the ones to aide the new teachers in that. That's what I do with Ms.
Ussin Teaches, LLC. I partner with colleges and universities and school districts across the country to equip education
majors and new teachers with what they'll need to be successful in their first years in the classroom.
What is one of the biggest challenges facing public education today?
There are so many, but since the question asks for only one, I have to say teacher attrition.
Ms. Ussin
Teaches.
F
E
A
T
U
R
E
Remixing
Classroom
Management
D E F - E D M A G A Z I N E | 3 8

39. You are an expert in many areas, but classroom
management is a passion of yours. How did that
develop?
I've never been asked this question. Ha! I love it! I think
my passion for classroom management must've
developed when I had several consecutive years on
teams where at least one teacher on the team had poor
management. I noticed how children would be model
students in three of the four classes where teachers
instituted solid rituals and routines. The students, for
the most part, exhibited high academic performance in
those classes. Then, the opposite was exhibited in the
class where management was weak. Students behaved
like animals because they were allowed to do so. They
usually didn't perform as well because there wasn't
much effective instruction going forth due to a lack of
order in the room. My heart broke as I saw this trend
year after year. I just thought, "Why can't students have
environments that are conducive for learning in every
class?" I'm on a mission now to see this come to pass.
Many educators are choosing to leave the
profession now. Why do you think we see such an
increase in early retirements or career changes
right now?
The pandemic forced us to have to work from home,
and while working from home, many teachers realized
they actually enjoyed it. Before the world "pressed
pause," many were already on the edge, looking for an
out, and being home gave them the push they needed
to be brave enough to leave. Teachers are overworked
and underpaid. Extra time in the comfort of their
homes was a relief for many of them and frankly, to that
end, there's just no relinquishing it and returning to the
school building. They don't want the relief to end. Some
saw their immediate families for longer spans of time
than they have in years. They realized they hadn't been
giving priority to their families, and they refuse to revert
back to that. I believe many teachers finally had the
opportunity to be the ones on the outside of their own
lives looking in, and what they saw, they didn't like.
What is one of your favorite memories from your
time as a teacher?
One year, I took off from work for my birthday just to
have a day to myself. I told my students I'd be gone that
day but that I'd be back the following day. When I
returned, they showered me with gifts. I received
presents from the 1st period through the 6th period
that day. They sang Happy Birthday to me in every class.
They poured it on thick for their teacher! I felt so loved...
Contact Information
HTTPS://WWW.MSUSSINTEACHES.COM/
so honored. More than anything, from that outpouring of
love, I saw how important it is to have relationships with
my students and how vital that connection is for the life of
the classroom. The fact that they wanted to celebrate me
spoke volumes about our bond.
You are also a very successful author. Tell us about
your books.
My first book is Stories That Teach Girls: A 30-Day Walk
Through Girls' Life Lessons with God's Word, which I wrote
and published in nine months because there was such an
urgency in my spirit to address issues that young ladies
face. The book is an intimate, personal workbook, built
around four short stories, for pre-teen and teen girls,
designed to take them on a journey through their own
hearts and minds. As they dig into God's word for
themselves, they'll discover who they are, who God
created them to be, and how He wants them to live.
My second book, He Wasn't It Either: A Single Woman's
Memoir of Lessons Learned, took me six years to write and
publish because it was personal, pretty painful in some
places, and plain hard to put on paper. But I knew I
needed to tell my story, talk about my relationships and
situationships in detail, and have in-depth conversations
with the reader about the lessons I learned in each one.
Writing the book was therapeutic for me, and from the
feedback I've received since the book was released in
2019, I know my therapy has been a blessing to others.
What does the future hold for Ms. Ussin?
My immediate future will be filled with guest lectures,
workshops, and conference presentations for beginning
teachers, where the focus will be classroom management
and research-based and tried, true, and proven highly
effective instructional strategies for students. I just want to
take care of new teachers. I want them to feel honored,
valued, and appreciated, but more than anything, I want
them equipped. I can't say much outside of that right now,
but when I'm able to reveal, it will be heard loud and clear.
D E F - E D M A G A Z I N E | 3 9

42. BOOK AND PRINTS BY DAN LISH AVAILABLE NOW AT
W W W . D A N L I S H A R T W O R K S . B I G C A R T E L . C O M

43. Boston native Lyric Jones describes herself as a musician
that constantly tries to break out of the boxes that the world
puts her in. Her musical expression ranges from writing
incredible rap lyrics, performing as a vocalist, rocking
percussion, producing, and DJing to name a few.
In the late 90's, Lyric listened closely to the hip hop that
flooded the radio airways. She notes that much of the writing
was from a male perspective. "So, I would just flip it and write
from my perspective. I remember those being my earliest
writing exercises. Everything from a Lil Bow Wow song to a
Jay Z record." She admits she was always driven by
storytelling.
Lyric recalls her times in Boston as a child and the after-
school and summer programs that helped to nurture her
talent in the field of music. She participated in Berklee City
Music, a program that enables young people from
underserved communities to participate in programs to
develop their talents in contemporary music and the
performing arts. As in the case of Lyric Jones, communities
that offer rich programs for students beyond the school day
sow seeds that take root many years later in the lives of the
youth they serve. Programs such as the one Lyric
participated in offer students an experience beyond the
school day that taps into the talents that may not find a place
to thrive inside our schools.
During a recent appearance on the DEF-EDucation Podcast,
Lyric elaborated on the impact of her time at Berklee, noting
that it changed the course of her life. She is grateful that her
city understands the importance of providing synergy
between K12 schools and colleges to help youth explore
their gifts and talents in meaningful ways.
A Multi-Talented
Representation of
Hip-Hop Pedagogy
I was always
driven by
storytelling.
PROFESSOR
LYRIC JONES
By André Benito Mountain
D E F - E D M A G A Z I N E | 4 3

44. During her high school years, Lyric was joint enrolled at
Berklee College of Music. Active in her community since a
young age, she served on the Mayor's Youth Council in
Boston and traveled up and down the East Coast doing work
in communities in need. She credits the adults at Berklee with
nurturing her talent as a musician during those formative
years. In 2006, Jones relocated to Georgia, attending the
University of Georgia in Athens and majoring in Broadcast
News.
Today, Lyric Jones is a rap techniques instructor in the vocal
program at the Musician's Institute in Hollywood, California.
She is also a professional recording artist whose most recent
album, Closer Than They Appear, includes a mix of her wide-
ranging talents. Tracks like "Rock On" chronicle her love of
the culture since the early days back in her beloved Boston.
She holds hip hop accountable as she rhymes "even when
hip hop grew more contradictory, was at the pep rally, cause I
marvel at the history." Lyric Jones, with her pen, reminds us
that in life, it is important to hold those things we love
accountable, whether they are institutions, people, or art
forms. A true testament of love is wanting someone or
something to be better.
Lyric Jones never imagined becoming an educator, giving
exams and homework, but she is fully embracing her new role
as a professor. She acknowledges that being a very active
recording artist and working simultaneously as a professor
can be awkward at times. But like everything else Lyric Jones
touches, she does it with elegance.
"The likes of Black Thought,
Pharoah Monch, and
Phonte...those are the ones I
studied. Once I became a
student of rap...I became a
branch off their tree."
http://thelyricjones.com/
D E F - E D M A G A Z I N E | 4 4

45. available on

46. C H I L D R E N ' S L I T
R E V I E W
The Roots of Rap - 16 Bars on the 4 Pillars of Hip-Hop is
a book by Carol Boston Weatherford, with dazzling
illustrations by Frank Morrison. Morrison is a talented
visual artist based in Atlanta whose client list includes
National Geographic Kids, Penguin Books, and Harper
Collins. The artistry throughout this book comes alive on
every page, helping the reader feel like they were right
there in the mix. Music and Arts will forever be timeless
and one of the main staples in every culture. I can
remember listening to Run DMC growing up feeling the
power of their words through the richness of their
storytelling. This book offers the reader, no matter who
you are, a glimpse of how hip hop was and still is an
essential part of history. Everyone from James Brown to
TLC played a significant part of our rich history of poets,
artists, dancers, singers, and of course, rappers.
Rene Crowe-Harris has been an educator for 17 years. She attended Clark Atlanta University and
Mercer University, earning a Bachelor’s Degree and Specialist’s Degree in Communications and
Education.
CULTURALLY RELEVANT RECOMMENDATIONS
MORE DEF-ED RECOMMENDATIONS:
D E F - E D M A G A Z I N E | 4 6

47. GOLDEN
AVENUE
Website: https://www.goldenavenuellc.com/
Email: gldnavenue@gmail.com
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