Documentary Explores Challenges in Local Public Schools – Premiere 5/27

Four community organizations have come together to create Souls of Our Teachers, a documentary film examining the first-hand experiences, challenges and insights of public school teachers across the Charlotte area.

Mecklenburg Ministries, Temple Beth El, Communities in Schools and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools collaborated on the documentary, intended to be used as a tool to recruit effective teachers to the most challenging schools; to inform parents and the community about the importance of active involvement and support for public education; and to encourage volunteerism in public schools. The powerful half-hour documentary was produced by Professional Communications, a Matthews-based video production company.

“Quality public education is in the best interest of every citizen in this community,” said Dr. Maria Hanlin, Executive Director of Mecklenburg Ministries. “Our hope is that Souls of Our Teachers will open Charlotte’s eyes to the state of our public schools and encourage everyone—businesses, faith community and general public—to step up and get involved.”

Based on the success of the award-winning Souls of Our Students documentary (which was released in 2008 and is being used in local businesses congregations and schools across the country) this new video provides an honest look at the teaching challenges and unique opportunities that exist in urban public school education today.

Charlotte’s public television station, WTVI, is the media partner on the Souls of Our Teachers project.

The film premieres at 7 p.m., Thursday, May 27, at ImaginOn and is open to the public. Space is limited and reservations are required: meckmin@meckmin.org. In August, the DVD with a facilitator’s guide will be made available to businesses, faith communities, PTAs, community associations and civic organizations.
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ABOUT THE PARTNERS
Temple Beth El: www.beth-el.com
Communities in School: www.communitiesinschools.org
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools: www.cms.k12.nc.us
Mecklenburg Ministries: www.meckmin.org