SelectED

SelectED is a riveting and awe-inspiring 2015 documentary directed by Kayla McCormick. It depicts a thought-provoking and intimate look into the world of the admirable and disciplined educators, revealing the essence of what it means to be in one of the most demanding and dedicated professions.

The story is set against the backdrop of Whitney M. Young Magnet High School in Chicago, Illinois, one of the most successful and competitive public schools in the US. The institution is famously recognized for its illustrious alumni which include Michelle Obama and other influential personalities in various fields. The narrative provides a perfect setting for exploring the in-depth perspectives of diverse and passionate educators as they navigate the unique challenges and responsibilities that come with their profession.

SelectED deeply immerses the viewer into the pursuit of education. The passion and dedication from these teachers and their commitment towards empowering the next generation is beautifully showcased. The film truthfully portrays their struggle with the pressures of maintaining high success rates amidst the mounting expectations of parents, the school, and society.

This documentary showcases the human element of education, going beyond the typical grades and test scores. The teachers are beautifully portrayed as the artists of human potential, their roles extending far beyond issuing homework and grading papers. They become mentors, life coaches, and integral figures in these young students' lives. The film profoundly explores how these educators find the perfect balance between developing their students acadically and preparing them for life beyond school.

SelectED also reveals the immense pressure faced by the students attending such an elite institution. It brings forth the unique struggles, insecurities, and ambitions of these young minds as they navigate the formidable landscape of a highly competitive educational environment. In a broader aspect, the documentary lays bare the modern American educational system's high-stakes nature where the quest for success casts a voluminous shadow over the lives of these students and teachers.

One of the prime features of SelectED is its incredible storytelling. McCormick has effortlessly managed to string together diverse narratives from the institution's staff and select students, bringing forth a compelling and holistic picture of life inside one of the country's most esteemed schools. She very adroitly introduces the audience to the school's rigorous application process, the demanding nature of the classroom environment, the high-level of expectation from students and the dedication the institution has to its objectives.

Another compelling facet is the film's honest and upfront handling of the racial dynamics within such a respected institution, delving into the challenging truths behind racial representation in schools of such stature. While the documentary doesn't shy away from discussing these implicit biases, it also applauds the school for fostering an atmosphere of diversity and encouraging students from all ethnic backgrounds.

Additionally, the film is shot very artistically, with the camera work invoking a sense of intimacy with the subjects providing close-ups of their expressions, their moments of triumph, and glimpses of their vulnerabilities. The cinematography effectively uses light, color, and texture to tell the story more effectively. The film artfully makes use of various editing techniques and the soundtrack effectively serves the film's narrative momentum.

In conclusion, SelectED offers an insightful look into the world of education from both the students' and educators' perspectives. It paints a portrait of a school where success is the norm, challenges are welcomed, and excellence seems to be within the reach of every student. It provides valuable insights into the benefits and hurdles of a demanding educational experience and raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of success, the value of a good education, and the ever-changing dynamics of the world of education. This film is a must-watch for anyone interested in the topic of education, and it can serve as an enriching and thoughtful resource to those passionate about shaping the future through education.