A Two-Part, Bilingual Documentary Explores Pressing Issues in Education Today Through the Eyes of Six Latino and Latina Adolescents From Across the United States
(San Francisco, CA, Wednesday, October, 23, 2013) –The Graduates/Los Graduados, a new two-part special from filmmaker Bernardo Ruiz (Reportero), explores the many roots of the Latino dropout crisis through the eyes of six inspiring young students from across the United States who are part of an on-going effort to increase graduation rates for a growing Latino population.
Much more than a survey of contemporary policy debates, the student profiles in The Graduates offer a first-hand perspective on the challenges facing many Latino high school students, including over-crowded schools, crime-ridden neighborhoods, teen pregnancy, and pressure to contribute to the family finances. The Graduates/Los Graduados is an eye-opening introduction to many of the determined and resilient young people who will shape America’s future.
The Graduates/Los Graduados premieres on Independent Lens on two consecutive Mondays, October 28, 2013 and November 4, 2013, 10:00-11:00 p.m. ET on PBS (check local listings). The program will also be presented in Spanish on the Spanish-language channel V-me and online at PBS.org. The Graduates/Los Graduados is funded by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting in association with Latino Public Broadcasting. The series is produced by Quiet Pictures and the Independent Television Services (ITVS).
Episode 1 (October 28) – Girls
This episode looks at the special challenges faced by many Latina students through the stories of three remarkable young women
Episode 2 (November 4) – Boys
This episode profiles three young Latinos who have overcome enormous challenges, through the help of family, friends and community organizations, en route to completing their education