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Empty Desks Trailer

Empty Desks Trailer

Empty Desks | Documentary

Intimate portraits revealing the dreams of a generation who longed to inspire young minds, only to confront the unimaginable reality of teaching today. Behind the headlines of student struggles, parental apathy, and classroom unrest, teachers are leaving at historic rates. Through intimate portraits of educators on the frontlines, this docuseries delves into their heartbreak, resilience, and desperate solutions, revealing a profession on the brink. (Currently in production.)

Julia Barrett

Former Educator

In December of 2022, I resigned my position as a K-8 health teacher in Philadelphia. Having just left a budding career teaching in private and public schools, coaching, and tutoring, I decided to take time away to figure out what my future in education will look like. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to bring my passion for working with young people and advocating for educators and students towards exploring the realities of the education profession today.

Carlos Ortega

Aspiring Educator

I'm a Junior Secondary Education Social Science Major at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. I am also part of the Teacher Scholars Academy, a scholarship that focuses on preparing the next generation of impactful educators. I've always known that teaching is my calling, but in the society that we are moving into, I've has become unsure. Becoming a cast member in this film series is helping me to explore my options and to see where I fit into the education system.
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