TEACH/Here to screen "American Teacher" documentary

TEACH/Here to screen American Teacher documentary Image

After a limited run in major cities across the U.S., a documentary chronicling the challenges of teaching in disparate urban in rural areas is set to be screened in Chattanooga.

The feature-length film, "American Teacher," is directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Vanessa Roth and narrated by Matt Damon. On Tuesday, Dec. 13, it will be shown for free at the Public Education Foundation, at 5 p.m.

The film chronicles the experience of four teachers as they realize the importance of their profession, but are forced to ask themselves if they can continue to meet the intense demands of meeting the needs of their students.

Cheri Dedmon, executive director of Chattanooga's TEACH/Here residence program, said her organization planned to host the screening in order to help continue a dialogue about the best way to reward and retain excellent teachers.

"TEACH/Here is on the cutting edge of research and we see that teachers who are not properly prepared will not be effective teachers," Dedmon said. "We want our teachers to be prepared for the challenges they will face, but also provide ongoing support for them so they can continue to be successful."

Following the film, a panel discussion will take place, featuring Crystal Sorrells, principal of Orchard Knob Middle, Cary Garrett, a teacher and clinical instructor from East Lake Academy, and Donna Kwasnicki, from Bess T. Shepherd Elementary. The event is free and open to the public.

TEACH/Here to screen "American Teacher" documentary