Growing up in North Camden, Travis recalls drug dealers and users constantly invading his family’s steps. He watched his father in shouting matches with people selling drugs on the side of their house. Because of these experiences, he relates to young people on a profound level, especially those dealing with PTSD and severe trauma. He remembered, “I had to hear gun shots at night and hated when addicts asked me did I have drugs to sell.” Now, as a teacher, Mr. Elliott emphasizes being relatable and resilient. “Your blackness is your superpower; you can reach them by being yourself.”

Watching “Drumline” as a kid inspired Mr. Elliott to go to college. Nick Cannon’s performance and Tina Gordon Chism’s writing combined to create a film that showcased HBCU band culture in a way that deeply resonated with him. This proves how representation isn’t just crucial in classrooms—it’s essential in television and movies, too. Both mediums play a significant role in the development of Black and Brown children throughout their late childhood and adolescence.

Mr. Elliott also spoke about the lack of representation among Black male teachers. He stated, “Representation is a real thing. Children gravitate to people who look like them.” There’s a nonprofit called The Black Male Educators Alliance, founded by Dr. Curtis L. Lewis, whose mission mirrors Mr. Elliott’s own work: developing educators who transform the experiences of Black and Brown students so they can become tomorrow’s leaders. Efforts like these, and the day-to-day dedication of teachers like Mr. Elliott, are making a real difference in communities across the country.

Nationwide, many school districts struggle to keep teachers from quitting. According to Chalkbeat.org, there’s an “urgent need to accelerate efforts to retain newer teachers and teachers of color,” referencing a report compiled by the Philadelphia Talent Coalition and led by Elevate 215. Under mounting pressures and daily stress, many teachers feel the strain. But Mr. Elliott shared, “I don’t have a lot of stress. The best way to teach kids is always give options and solutions. Most teachers approach the classroom with a respect me first methodology, but it is important to earn the respect of the children.”

In his classroom, Mr. Elliott uses strategies that connect with students—whether it’s discussing sneakers or playing a little hip-hop when they finish their assignments. Positive reinforcement sets the tone: if they get their work done, they can pick a song they love. He says it works wonders.

Outside the classroom, Mr. Elliott coaches basketball. Kobe Bryant once said, “Sports are such a great teacher. I think of everything they’ve taught me: camaraderie, humility, how to resolve differences.” Yet Mr. Elliott sees social media threatening team unity, with some athletes more focused on likes than collaboration. “They are good with social media,” he noted, “but sometimes they are not good at the game.” Even so, he coaches because it’s never just about basketball—it’s about shaping young people for life.