‘American Teacher’ A Tale Worth Considering

Diana Hadley

I know it’s a stretch to think a publication adviser might have an extra two minutes and 42 seconds, but anyone who can find that time is encouraged to visit this link to see a trailer for a new documentary about the teaching profession.

American Teacher tells the story of four teachers who represent both urban and rural schools. Despite their passion to teach they question whether they can stay in the profession under the current circumstances.

Matt Damon, son of a teacher, is the narrator, and Academy Award-winning filmmaker Vanessa Roth is producer and director.

I have had the opportunity to see an advance screening of this 82-minute documentary, and I know most journalism teachers will appreciate it on multiple levels. In addition to the fact it validates the work teachers do, it’s a great example of reporting that uses both statistics and narrative.