Exploring a wide range of ideas and experiences is the essence of life. And for Rashaan “Mr. Word” Eldridge, an Arts for Learning Maryland teaching artist and musician, actor, writer, rapper, poet, and performer, it’s the essence of his creativity!

Mr. Word inspires students of all ages with creative experiences and encouragement to explore, to express, to try new things, and to go for it. That encouragement matters; something Mr. Word knows from experience.

“My father was a percussionist so I was exposed to creativity at a young age,” he says. “I’ve never been told I couldn’t try something I wanted to try; and that’s the mentality I bring to teaching. If you want to do it, go do it. At first, you might not do it great, but do it anyway.”

The encouragement is clear in Mr. Word’s programs for students. In one program offering, Mr. Word “transports” elementary students to an imaginary spoken word venue, called The Poetry Spot, where they engage with an artist showcasing their work. Students learn about the journey of becoming a writer and performer, with lessons about defeating self-talk, family, emotional management, resilience, creative influence, and love.

“I tell my story and share how encouragement and ambition plays a central role in my life,” explained Mr. Word. “I let students know that it’s okay to do the things you want to do; even if you’re not an expert at first.”

Early in his own creative journey, Mr. Word had focused on recording but never rapping. “We had some recording sessions when the emcee didn’t show up. I had already been a poet, but I’d never tried my hand at rapping. But I figured–why not? When I did, my confidence grew, and I realized I really enjoyed it as well.”

This kind of expression and creative risk-taking can change a life. “Self-expression is so important; it helps us navigate life,” said Mr. Word. “Whether through creativity or other avenues, expression helps us navigate challenges and focus our energies away from the negative. Expression can be a stepping stone. And it can extend to our communities.”

Outside of his work as an Arts for Learning teaching artist, Mr. Word has self-published five books of poetry, performs with his band Honest Lee Soul, writes for UpStart Annapolis (read a profile of Mr. Word), and, for 15 years, worked as a behavioral specialist for students with special needs. His talents are as broad as his interests, and his impact is clear, in the classroom and out.

“I tell students all the time: it’s okay to fail because you learn from it. And it’s okay to pivot because the direction you start with isn’t always the direction you end up taking. The key is patience and persistence. If you go for it, you’ll learn from it.”

Visit Mr. Word’s Artist Page to learn more and book his programs in your school or classroom.