Meet James Moore -Building Brighter Futures Through Jegna
Based on an Interview with James Moore, Kingmakers of Oakland, Jegna Literacy Ambassador
James Moore is entering his second year with Jegna, a program dedicated to uplifting and mentoring young students in Oakland. Working primarily with kindergarten and first-grade classes at MLK and East Oakland Pride, James brings energy, patience, and heart to his role. For him, every day is different, filled with unpredictability, growth, and connection.
Jegna, meaning a person of great courage, strength, and integrity, reflects James’s approach to education. He connects deeply with students, especially those who may be labeled as “difficult,” recognizing parts of his own childhood in them. “By the end of the year, they change,” he says, emphasizing the power of consistency, love, and understanding.
His work has also shaped him personally, teaching him patience and reminding him that kids have as much to teach as they do to learn. “They fall, but they always get back up,” he says, a lesson he carries into adulthood.
A recent trip to Panama reinvigorated his Spanish skills and gave him a broader cultural lens, allowing him to better communicate with students from diverse backgrounds. Working across two very different school environments, James has learned to adapt, code-switch, and stay grounded in his mission: to make school feel fun, safe, and welcoming.
As Jegna expands, James hopes to bring “himself” — his authentic presence, positivity, and passion, to new students. In a world where Black male educators are still rare, his presence is not just powerful, it’s necessary.
We thank you James for all that you do! Congratulations on your well-deserved nomination for Educator of the Month! Your work with young Black youth is powerful, intentional, and deeply inspiring. You create a space where they feel seen, valued, and capable of greatness.
Thank you for showing up with heart, purpose, and unwavering belief in their brilliance. You embody our principles of engage, encourage & empower. We see you and thank you for the impact you make every single day.
