Documenting teachers’ gifts, challenges 

The Charlotte Post
 
Published Thursday, May 20, 2010 8:00 am
by Ryanne Persinger

A couple of years ago the documentary “Souls of Our Students: Appreciating Differences” debuted in Charlotte.

Now it’s being shown in faith communities, schools and businesses across the country and was implemented as a component of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools’ anti-bullying policy.

The film focused on diversity in schools and included students from different cultures, races, socioeconomic backgrounds and sexual orientations. 

From the birth of that video, four community organizations have teamed up to create “Souls of Our Teachers: An Inside Look at Urban Education” examining the first hand experiences, challenges and insights of public school teachers.

Mecklenburg Ministries, Temple Beth El, Communities in Schools and CMS collaborated on the film, which highlights seven teachers from high poverty schools in the Charlotte area. 

The film debuts at 7 p.m. May 27 at ImaginOn, 300 E. 7th St. The public is invited, however reservations are required.

“We really want to increase the community’s awareness that excellent public education for every child is in the best interest of every citizen,” Maria Hanlin, executive director of Mecklenburg Ministries, said. “We also want to lift up the noble profession of teaching as well as to inspire our teachers.”

For two years, the organizations have worked on the project. It finally received funding. The Matthews-based video production company Professional Communications produced the film.

Hanlin is hoping the 30-minute documentary inspires the community to advocate, volunteer and give back to schools any way they can.
Eventually, the film will also be screened on WTVI.  

Rabbi Judy Schlinder, senior rabbi at Temple Beth El, says the community can be an advocate in schools whether it’s volunteering time, advocacy or resources.

“I think the way to educate yourself about CMS is to bring dialogue to your place of work, reading group or even (Parent Teacher Organizations) so you can do something,” Schlinder said. “Whether you come to the screening, see it on WTVI or watch the DVD …you can raise your awareness.”