About a Teacher

"About a Teacher" is poignant, gut-wrenching, and entertaining film that also shines a light on the bureaucratic barriers teachers face every day. Friends who teach have spoken about those impediments for years: Hanan Harchol takes it one step further, illuminating these struggles realistically on screen. "About a Teacher" not only demonstrates the hurdles Harchol contends with but those of his former students, whose resilience and talent are palpable despite their complicated, young lives. For some, it is incredible that they just show up and do the work. This film exemplifies how one teacher's passion can spur students to tell stories that reflects their lived experiences and grapple with trauma. Ultimately, the film is a testament to the need for systemic change in the way we train and support teachers so that their students can succeed.

This beautifully crafted film goes to the heart of what it means to teach. It deals with both the struggles and the deeply moral mission of a profession that often chooses us rather than the other way about. Hanon's story resonated deeply with my pre-service students, giving them a sense of the challenges that lie ahead and the rewards that await them if they only stick it out. It provides the long(er) view of what it means to learn to teach. It doesn't happen in a day, or a year of teacher education. It takes time and a ton of work, all of which Harchol is unafraid to explore. I highly recommend it.

Did a great job of depicting the day-to-day of an NYC DOE teacher during the first few years! I related to this movie on so many levels, and it was hilarious. Highly recommend it!

Great film! Really shows how hard teachers work and the emotional journey they experience with students. I look forward to my future career as I know it will be challenging but worth it.

An inspiring and realistic film about the trials and tribulations of a NYC school teacher. Very well-done and an interesting watch.