Jegna is a school-based program where young black men support pre-K - 2nd grade students with literacy & social-emotional growth.
Program Overview
The Jegna Early Literacy Program is a school-based initiative designed to improve literacy and social-emotional outcomes for Pre–K - 2nd grade students—while building the next generation of Black male educators and community leaders.
Through weekly classroom support, cohort-based training, and hands-on mentorship, Jegnas develop as literacy coaches and role models—making a lasting impact on students, schools, and themselves.
THIS PROGRAM ADDRESSES 3 CRITICAL BARRIERS TO EARLY LITERACY SUCCESS FOR BLACK BOYS.
Access to Black male educators and role models who reflect students’ identities and lived experiences.
Access to early, consistent, and culturally relevant literacy support.
Access to social-emotional guidance and mentorship embedded in the classroom.
JEGNAS TRAIN WEEKLY, SUPPORT CLASSROOMS YEAR-ROUND, AND GROW AS EDUCATORS, MENTORS, AND LEADERS.
Become a Jegna
Young Black men are eligible to apply to become Jegnas, typically between the ages of 18–25, with a strong commitment to supporting young students and growing as educators and community leaders.
Jegnas serve in K–1 classrooms during the school year, while also participating in weekly cohort trainings focused on literacy, mentorship, and social-emotional development.
The only requirements are a commitment to showing up consistently, a passion for youth, and a willingness to grow. No prior teaching experience or specific GPA is required—just heart, purpose, and a readiness to lead.
Panama 2024
In Spring 2024, Jegnas traveled to Panama to connect with students across the African diaspora, building cross-cultural understanding and expanding their vision as educators and global citizens.
The trip was co-led by Kingmakers of Oakland and Akira’s Book Club, and included visits to schools in Panama City and Colón where Jegnas led read-alouds, shared books from Akira’s collection, and engaged in cultural exchange with local youth.
Our Partner
We’re proud to partner with Akira’s Book Club, a literacy initiative created to help young children fall in love with reading.
Through joyful, culturally rooted books, the program introduces early learners to the alphabet, grammar, poetry, and self-expression. Together, we share a commitment to nurturing brilliance, confidence, and curiosity in Black children from the very beginning.
Our Team
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Jordon Chatmon
Jegna Early Literacy Ambassador
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James Moore
Jegna Early Literacy Ambassador
