Reviews in Brief: Race to Nowhere Examines the Dark Side of the Achievement Culture

Part of: Reviews in Brief

Race to Nowhere: The Dark Side of America's Achievement Culture is bombarding California. The Race to Nowhere, an award-winning film was released earlier this year. This documentary chronicles today’s  student in the fast-paced, competitive, overburdening educational system. Director Vicki Abeles, a Northern California mother, set out to investigate why her children were overtaxed with homework, exhausted more often than not, and frequently sick. In this documentary, Abeles investigates homework policies, standardized testing, and the rigorous pace of school. Educators, students, and parents contribute personal stories. Researchers discuss sleep, homework, and standardized testing. Their findings are ones that everyone should pay attention to as the next generation prepares for life. The movie calls for a community grassroots movement to take back the educational system and reclaim the lives of children.

Race to Nowhere will play for one week at the Sunset 5 Theater in West Hollywood beginning September 10. It will also be screened at Santa Monica High School on September 22. Additionally, in conjunction with National Child Health Day, the film will be released nationwide through co-sponsored local screenings across the country on September 30, October 4, October 26, and November 4. On these dates, screening will occur in hundreds of theaters and schools across the country. There are many chances to check out this feature that will stimulate discussion and hopefully change for the future.

Check out the film's official website for information on screenings.


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Article Author: idontgetit

Lisa Y. Johnson-Collins is an educator and writer that lives in Los Angeles, CA. She has a master’s degree in special education, a bachelor’s degree in psychology, and is a credentialed teacher in both special and general education, kindergarten through high school. …

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