SFA Department of Elementary Education to screen documentary

Poster image for the screening of the documentary "Tested."

NACOGDOCHES, Texas - Stephen F. Austin State University's James I. Perkins College of Education's Department of Elementary Education will host a screening of the documentary "Tested" and a Q&A session with producer, director and writer Curtis Chin at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, March 3, in the Janice A. Pattillo Early Childhood Research Center, Room 212.

The film follows the stories of students hoping to be admitted to one of the top public high schools in New York City, and it explores issues of equal access, stereotypes, affirmative action and the model minority myth. The screening is free and open to the public, but seating is limited.

"This documentary provides insight to many critical social issues," said Dr. Brandon Fox, SFA assistant professor of elementary education. "Opportunity and access directly impact life choices and life chances. For many, these choices and chances may rely heavily on one exam. This film is timely, as many states are considering various approaches to public education."

SFA students enrolled in ELE 352: Social/Environmental Foundations will have the opportunity to interact with the documentary's writer/producer/director during class, as well as conduct various assignments related to the film.

"We will engage in multiple explorations and connections to the film. Many students may use data from the film and from our interactions with Curtis Chin to assist in constructing their critical issues research paper, which explores the intersections of a critical social and/or economic issue at the local, state, national or international levels and education," Fox said. "This research paper is designed to engage students in a process to collect and disseminate data as well as to advocate for a response to the data."

Fox said students will be able to use this experience as a point of reference for additional assignments. The documentary explores topics covered in the course such as identity, educational history and civil rights.

"I believe that creating a space of interaction between the director and our students provides an extra layer of contextualization for our students to construct knowledge," Fox said. "Hearing the purpose, goals, successes and struggles behind the making of 'Tested' may encourage our students to advocate for what they believe to be equitable and just."

For more information, contact Fox at foxbrand@sfasu.edu or (936) 468-2409.