A new film, American Teacher—narrated by actor Matt Damon and co-produced by popular author Dave Eggers—attempts to paint a more positive picture of the teaching profession in America, and shed light on the need to attract and retain quality teachers in our schools. The film chronicles the stories of four teachers living and working in disparate urban and rural areas of the country. The stories are told through a mixture of footage and interviews with students, families and colleagues, as well as by the teachers themselves.
Unlike other documentaries about public education, this one is clearly pro-teacher, and argues that we need to view teaching as a profession not unlike doctors or lawyers. Promos on the website call teachers, "misunderstood, underpaid and scapegoated" as well as "dedicated and hardworking." Click here to watch a trailer.
There are currently no screenings planned in Michigan, but the website has a link that lets you plan your own screening. You can also order a DVD of the film. What do you think, do we undervalue teaching in this country? We'll share some of your thoughts in an upcoming Headlines.