Cortez Watson Jr.
MEd, LSMA, MA

Cortez Watson Jr. is an educator, researcher, and youth development strategist whose work sits at the intersection of education, culture, and social justice. He holds a Master of Education in Youth Development from the University of Illinois Chicago, a Master of Learning Sciences from Northwestern University with a concentration in Culture and Foundations of Learning, and a Master of Arts in Urban Community Studies focused on youth development. His scholarship and practice are rooted in advancing equity, challenging systemic barriers, and creating liberatory learning environments for Black youth.

 

Cortez’s research explores how Hip-Hop can serve as a powerful pedagogical tool to engage learners, foster critical consciousness, and support transformative educational practice. Through the Hip-Hop FIRM, he has designed and delivered impactful programming for youth and for formal and informal educators, applying social justice frameworks to bridge theory and practice. Drawing on empirical research on Black boys in urban contexts, his work critically examines the policies, systems, and material conditions that shape their lived experiences. This work has led him to develop a conceptual model for Black youth development grounded in empowerment, equity, liberation, and community transformation.