Education and it’s reform have been a hot topic this year.
During this year’s Tribeca Film Festival I had the pleasure of checking out “The Lottery”, a documentary that not only uncovers the crisis in NYC’s public education system (The average black/latino 12th grader reads at the same level as the average white 8th grader) but also presents a solution: equality through education reform.
Living in a country that encourages entertainment over education it seems we are breeding more American idiots than heroes. The Sundance Film Festival featured the documentary “Waiting for Superman” a film that explores the same educational crisis seen in “The Lottery” but this time the solution (at least in D.C.) is DC’s Public schools Chancellor, Michelle Rhee. Unafraid to terminate a teacher or school that doesn’t perform well, and a challenger of the powerful teachers’ union, Rhee seems to be the hero the students in DC have been waiting for.
If after being enlightened on the crisis on education you want to know how you can help, take a look at Hilde Back and Chris Mburu’s story. “A Small Act” is an award winning documentary on how one woman’s simple act of generosity toward a stranger is reciprocated through social change and educational progress.
Below are some great ways you can give back. Click on a link and make a difference.
A Small Act
“Each of us has the ability to create change. Each of us has the power to do something small. So what can you do? What’s your small act?”
My BLANK
“Your BLANK can be anything. Energy. Skills. Passion. Time. It’s whatever you have to offer. Everyone has BLANK in them to make a difference. What’s your BLANK?”
Youth At Risk
“Transform the chaotic lives of young people through persistent and compassionate mentoring.” *Shout to @BossLadyNYC for sharing the information.
Boys & Girls Club of America
Donate to a club in your neighborhood.