If you’re anything like me, the back to school season can be filled with stress and anxiety about the new school year. One unexpected thing that’s gotten me excited about heading back to school are education documentaries! I have a post planned in the coming weeks about why working in the schools is my jam but a large part of that is that I feel very strongly about public education.
I love learning about education systems in different countries and thinking critically about what system helps all learners.
If you’re interested in catching a few of my favorite education documentaries to get excited about the work we’re part of, check out my top 5 favorites below!
1) Paper Tigers
Paper Tigers was my favorite documentary I watched this summer. It’s my #1 education documentary recommendation. Unfortunately, it’s not available on Netflix. I rented it on iTunes (also available for rent on Amazon Prime) for a couple bucks and it was definitely worth it!
2) Daughters of Destiny
Daughters of Destiny is actually a 4-part series but it is incredible. I love that it shows both sides of a very complex issue (teaser: removing children who are growing up in extreme poverty from their homes and sending them to a very effective, residential school). It got me fired up on so many different levels! And the kids in this documentary are AMAZING.
3) If You Build It
If You Build It is also on Netflix! Woo! This documentary is all about getting disengaged students engaged with creative, meaningful work. It got me excited and thinking about a million different ways I can continue to infuse my therapy with work that means something to my students. The couple who runs the class highlighted in this documentary is amazing! #goals
4) The Bad Kids
The Bad Kids is a documentary that’s about an alternative high school that is for students who are at risk of dropping out. It mostly focuses on the school’s principal (who is amazing) and a few teachers that are changing the way, and what, they teach. It’s also on Netflix making it super easy to put on during a lamination session 😉
5)
All of the above documentaries get me inspired and motivated to be like the educators in the videos. They are out making changes and inspiring students to be the best they can be. I believe it’s important for school-based SLPs to stay up to date with trends and movements in education and these documentaries are a fun way to do just that!
Sooo… start using your Netflix binge sessions to get work-inspired while relaxing! Win-win!
What education documentaries do you love? I’d LOVE your recommendations!
{thanks for reading}
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