March 1, 2009
School Choice Illinois screens education film, holds panel discussion
Film highlights the common threads of successful education, panel discussion will analyze application for Illinois’ school system

CHICAGO – While the public is desperate for answers and ways to improve schools, on March 1 School Choice Illinois provided Illinois’ only screening of the documentary Flunked, which profiles schools across the country that are defying the odds and delivering a successful education.

The film highlighted the common threads of successful education: strong leadership, high standards, excellent teachers, and solid curricula. By focusing on schools that are successfully applying these principles, Flunked sent a message loud and clear: Parents, students, principals, and teachers do not have to settle for mediocrity in their own schools.

Immediately following the film, which was shown at the Gene Siskel Film Center, the viewers were invited to ask questions to the distinguished panel featuring Oliver Sicat, Principal, UIC College Prep, a Noble Street Charter School, and Sharon Hayes, the director of school development for K12 Public Virtual Schools.  The discussion also involved updates from Parents for School Choice Leader, Adreinne Leonard.  With Phylicia Lyons as moderator, they touched on subjects such as parental involvement, the relationships between the government and schools, transportation, involvement with current policy, and other educational choice related issues.  
 
If you have any questions, or if are interested in hosting a similar event, please contact School Choice Illinois at 312.268.6880 or email at contact (at) schoolchoiceillinois.org.