Schools That Change Communities

The insightful documentary Schools That Change Communities increased my respect for schools aimed at fostering a hands-on, involved type education. Previously I had a bit of reluctance to believe that a non-classroom based education could actually prepare the children as they progressed to the college level. I still am a bit wary of this approach. Although the documentary clearly showed to positive impact on the community, I wonder if the children will be penalized later in life for not being able to absorb material quickly and efficiently from vigorous book-learning.

I am also reluctant to say that the approach could work in Memphis. Because we are so urban, many schools just don't have the (agricultural) resources. Additionally, the community is very diverse; unlike the small town in South Dakota, we do not know everyone in our town. Maybe it is my ignorance to our city's possibilities but, other than schools encouraging their students to visit homeless shelters and such, I am not sure this type of learning would work in Memphis.

But it was an interesting way to start my Saturday, and I greatly enjoyed my shrimp salad from McCallister's.

Anna

Hatiloo Theater

Ekundayo Bandele's energetic insight on Hatiloo theater enlightened me to the lack of diversity in our city's entertainment industry. I was extremely surprised to find that before Hatiloo there were hardly any black theaters considering Memphis is 60% black. 

Originally Bandele had no intention of starting a black theather; however, once he was approached by a supporter of the arts, he realized the need for a theater. Since that fateful moment he has created 3 theaters in the needy areas of Memphis. 

He was quite vivacious while speaking to us, persuading us to visit his theaters. From this speaker I chiefly learned that there is actually a theater called Hattiloo but I also was able to recognize Memphis's need for diverse organizations, clubs, etc.