Race to Nowhere

I learned about this documentary in my Diversity Committee meeting today. Over-pressured, over-scheduled, and overwhelmed students has been a part of my personal and professional experience for many years, and it is close to my heart. I can’t wait to see this.

Here’s what the website says about it.

“Director Vicki Abeles turns the personal political, igniting a national conversation in her new documentary about the pressures faced by American schoolchildren and their teachers in a system and culture obsessed with the illusion of achievement, competition and the pressure to perform.

Featuring the heartbreaking stories of young people across the country who have been pushed to the brink, educators who are burned out and worried that students aren’t developing the skills they need, and parents who are trying to do what’s best for their kids, Race to Nowhere points to the silent epidemic in our schools: cheating has become commonplace, students have become disengaged, stress-related illness, depression and burnout are rampant, and young people arrive at college and the workplace unprepared and uninspired.

Race to Nowhere is a call to mobilize families, educators, and policy makers to challenge current assumptions on how to best prepare the youth of America to become healthy, bright, contributing and leading citizens.”

Be sure to watch the TRAILER

Things I never did as a student…

Ms. [Moxie],

Over the weekend, I participated in a series of educational contests including a geography bee. I have worked extremely hard to prepare for this and the school bee held earlier this year. Can I get extra credit for these competitions? I can bring the notes I have taken to school if you would like to see these also. Thank you for your consideration on this matter.

Sincerely,

[Geography Enthusiast]

Dear [Geography Enthusiast],
I am so proud of all you have accomplished geographically and otherwise this year. Your passion for maps and places has been a vital asset to our class. I will certainly miss having you to tell us about the transference of national ownership between small South American islands next year.
That being said, I don’t think it would be fair to the other students to offer you extra credit for work you have done outside of class and on your own accord. Also, currently, your average is 96. You don’t need any extra credit!!!

I think all of the glory, honor, and enjoyment you have already gotten out of geography is sufficient!! I hope you understand.
See you tomorrow, and I’m looking forward to your project on the Himalayas.

Fondly,

Ms. [Moxie]