A parent of one of my students recommended the documentary "The Bad Kids". It paints a really good picture of what our alternative school is like, except these students have a little more socio-economic struggle. The only thing I wish producers had done, was not named the documentary "The Bad Kids." What it really is about, is students who have a lot of aimless talent, who have been trying to overcome life challenges. Many of them hate school and have gotten behind on credits. It also highlights the emotional toll working and caring for these teens can take on staff members.
All educators and parents of challenging students will appreciate this documentary. The documentary highlights three or four students in particular and follows them through their time at school. Most students who attend Black Rock eventually graduate due to the caring staff at Black Rock Continuation High School, as well as their own change of heart and mindset. There are always a couple of students, who are in the minority, who don't make it, because they can't seem to overcome the mental hurdle it takes to focus on graduation instead of what is going on at home.
This film highlights the students' dire situations without displaying the shocking details. Much of it is in conversation on school grounds and interviews. Some scenes are filmed at the students, houses or at after school gatherings. This is a great American human interest story.
Here is a link to the movie page and trailer: The Bad Kids If you have an hour and forty one minutes to spare, please take the time to watch this. It's inspirational. It highlights successes and failures, and the reality of being a human teenager.
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