TONEY JACKSON
ABOUT TONEY
CREATIVE WORK ROOTED IN PURPOSE.
Poet. Author. Educator. Performer. Speaker. Community Builder.
Toney Jackson creates work that brings poetry, hip-hop, education, storytelling, and community into the same room. Across classrooms, stages, books, recordings, and public programs, he uses language and creativity to help people connect—with ideas, with one another, and with their own voices.
POET. EDUCATOR. CREATIVE CONNECTOR.
Toney Jackson is a poet, author, illustrator, educator, performer, speaker, and community arts organizer based in Hackensack, New Jersey.
Since beginning as a fourth-grade teacher at Nellie K. Parker School, Toney has dedicated his career to language and creative participation. His professional work reaches far beyond the classroom into poetry readings, hip-hop, student workshops, professional learning, educational resources, voiceover, curriculum consulting, and various community arts programming initiatives.
Whether he is writing poetry, leading a workshop, performing, or inviting a new voice to the microphone for the first time, Toney’s mission remains the same: helping every individual recognize the profound value of their own unique experiences and the power of their personal voice.
THE ARTIST
Working as a poet, illustrator, and the hip-hop artist Zach Lost, Toney weaves together themes of rhythm, identity, and family. His versatile creative practice flows effortlessly from personal writing and recording to vibrant visual art and dynamic stage performance.
THE EDUCATOR
As a dedicated teacher and consultant, Toney designs immersive learning experiences that amplify student voices. He helps fellow educators integrate music, movement, and authentic culture into the classroom to foster deep engagement and creativity.
THE COMMUNITY BUILDER
Through S.P.E.A.K. and various public initiatives, Toney cultivates inclusive environments for artistic growth. He invites poets, musicians, and newcomers alike to share their stories, fostering a supportive community where meaningful connections thrive.