As a theater and improv teacher in New York City’s jails and prisons, I witnessed the trauma of incarceration on a daily basis. Reading Mariame Kaba’s “We Do This ‘Til We Free Us” left me with the mantra “hope is a discipline”, which now shapes my perspective when working with incarcerated youths. It’s my responsibility to be mindful of what I bring into and leave behind in these spaces. I’m grateful for this project and the opportunity to respond artistically to Kaba’s powerful and inspiring book. After struggling with various attempts, I found hope in creating a collection of my favorite teaching moments, reminding me of the positive impact art can have on these students’ lives.