Finding Forrester

After viewing the movie, Finding Forrester, I can say that it is definitely one of the most impactful films that I've ever seen. This movie is important on so many levels, especially for a future educator such as myself. This film should absolutely be viewed by anybody that is considering pursuing a career in teaching. This story can teach so many lessons in equality, persistence, and giving every single student a chance to succeed.

It is truly frightening to witness that amount of teachers that are so quick to simply give up on certain students based on external factors. It is the responsibility for every teacher to give each and every student the best possible opportunity to succeed. In this story, William Forrester is able to serve as a mentor and role model for Jamal Wallace. Jamal is an incredible basketball player and perhaps an even better writer. However, due to societal implications, he is reluctant to fully express himself. In this scenario, some teachers would be quick to assume that Jamal was just a typical athlete that was lazy in terms of academics and did not want to apply himself.  This story shows just how important it is to make meaningful connections with all students! Students like Jamal need to be shown that there is no reason to be ashamed or embarrassed about learning.  Forrester was able to form a strong bond with Jamal and really bring out the best in him. This is what every teacher should be doing!

As I think about this story in relation to my own teaching experiences, I have absolutely encountered similar scenarios. I currently have a student that is known as the "class clown." He is always making other students laugh, and that usually means acting inappropriately in class. He is hands-down one of the most gifted students in the class, but is typically hesitant to express his knowledge. He has actually told me that he doesn't finish his work because he is too busy "entertaining" the other students... and this is a kindergarten class! If teachers continue to write this student off as lazy and unable to perform, he will be sick of school by the time he reaches middle school! This is truly one of the most tragic scenarios that I can imagine. I make sure to continually express my support for this student. I make sure to tell him that he is smart, capable, and fully able to complete his work as well as have fun with his classmates at the same time, as long as he is not be disruptive. Students should not be ashamed of succeeding! Especially once students reach an older age, performing at a high level can be viewed as "uncool." It is the responsibility of the teacher to dismiss this idea. Each and every student needs to be aware of the possibilities whenever they work hard in order to accomplish a goal.

I loved the message that this story was able to convey. Academics can be intimidating or scary for many students. This does not give teachers the right to neglect these students if they are not immediately performing at a high level. Teachers are responsible for bringing out the best in every single student, regardless of situation!