all this week as part of the Save Our Schools March and National Call to Action. A series of 7 films will be shown at American University, Monday through Friday this week. At least some of the filmakers are expected to be there.
Corporate-backed films on education like "Waiting for Superman," "The Cartel," and "The Lottery" present a distorted portrayal to in order to push an agenda.
The seven films being shown are very different, as you can see by going to this page where you can not only order your tickets (although tickets will be available at the door) but see brief descriptions, for example:
Monday, July 25, 7:30 PM
"The People Speak"
www.thepeoplespeak.com
“The People Speak” is inspired by Howard Zinn’s groundbreaking books "A People’s History of the United States" and "Voices of a People's History of the United States." Using dramatic and musical performances of the letters, diaries and speeches of everyday Americans, the documentary feature film THE PEOPLE SPEAK gives voice to those who spoke up for social change throughout U.S.
or
Tuesday, July 26, 7:30 PM
“Speaking in Tongues"
www.speakingintonguesfilm.info
At a time when 31 states have passed “English Only” laws, four pioneering families put their children in public schools where, from the first day of kindergarten, their teachers speak mostly in a foreign language. Speaking in Tongues follows four diverse kids on a journey to become bilingual. This charming story will challenge you to rethink the skills that Americans need to succeed in the 21st century.
or
Thursday, July 28, 7:30 PM
"August to June"
www.augusttojune.com
Improving public education in America is considered a high priority by most of our leaders. While policymakers associate this almost solely with increased accountability as measured by student performance on standardized tests, the isolated focus on so-called “basic skills” that has resulted from that narrow view is causing an outcry. Many note a loss of children’s joy in learning, sense of belonging, creative expression, and self-confidence. These are not easy things to measure, but they are visible and palpable in a vibrant community of learners, and are vital for maintaining a lively democratic society. AUGUST TO JUNE is not meant to suggest there is one right way to teach. It simply shows how one unconventional classroom puts schoolwork inside a larger picture.
Please consider coming. These films are all terrific.
Peace.