I have been on bar exam preparation overload so I decided to take a break tonight and watch a movie I have been wanting to see since its theater release. Those of you who know me know that I had it on hold at the Salt Lake Public Library and of course my hold finally came through.
Waiting for Superman is a documentary about the school system throughout the nation and some serious problems it is facing. As I started to watch the movie my first thought was oh great, another movie to tell us all how teachers are not cutting it and only some public, charter, and private schools are successful.
I was a public educator for eight years and now work in disability education law so I know there are problems but I really don't like it when we have these "the world is all wrong and there is no solution, except one, type stories."
How wrong I was about this movie. As the movie continued and as I watched the bonus features I realized that what the creator was trying to say is that we need to think outside the box, look at what is working and find ways to implement or duplicate it whether it be through districts or charter school systems. The only part that was not addressed in this film, though I think it is an issue that need a movie all its own, is the influence of family and community on the the student's future.
I am fortunate that I live in Utah where education, though lacking in funds, is valued with a 72% graduation rate in 2009. This movie is worth watching. It made me extremely grateful for those teachers I remember by name who changed my life forever!
www.waitingforsuperman.com
3 comments:
I haven't seen it but a review I read said that the movie said that throwing more money into the system wasn't the answer, yet the private schools they held up as examples of excellence are spending like $30,000 per kid.
i liked that movie too, I've previously read articles about the KIPP schools and I am very impressed by them.
I am very interested in seeing this movie although, next time you actually take a break to watch a movie maybe you need a comedy?? We saw the movie 'Just Go With It' this weekend and it was pretty funny. It should probably be at your precious library in 6 to 8 weeks or at red box NOW!! ;)
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