By John Tredrea, Staff Writer
”Race to Nowhere,” a documentary film about education that’s caught the attention of teachers and parents nationwide, will be screened at Hopewell Valley Central High School on March 8.
”Several parents brought this film to our attention,” said Dr. Thomas Smith, superintendent of the Hopewell Valley school district. “We felt it was important to share with all community members and, hopefully, begin a community dialogue of how we can work together to best support student learning in the 21st century.”
”Hundreds of theaters, schools and organizations nationwide have hosted community screenings of ‘Race to Nowhere’ during the past six months,” said district resident Kim Bruno, who mentors Hopewell Township’s Youth Advisory Board.
That board advises local government agencies on issues affecting young people.
”’Race to Nowhere’ points to some of the repercussions of the stress on our youth to succeed,” Ms. Bruno said. “Cheating has become commonplace, students are disengaged, stress-related illness and depression are increasing, and many young people arrive at college and the workplace unprepared and uninspired.”
Heidi Kahme, chairwoman of the Hopewell Valley chapter of the Municipal Alliance, which works to discourage substance abuse by young people, said the film addresses important health issues.
”Because the pressures involved with school are so intense, some teens do not cope well,” she said. “Many will turn to drugs, alcohol or other substance abuse to self-medicate and soothe their nerves.”
The screening of the film also is being endorsed by the Hopewell Valley Central High School Parent Teacher Organization and the Hopewell Valley Education Foundation.
The screening will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center. High school students may attend, but should be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Due to support from Capital Health Systems, admission is free, but registration is requested.
Go to www.rtnhopewellvalleychs.eventbrite.com to save a seat. For more information about the film, go to www.racetonowhere.com.

