Review 1. “The Ron Clark Story”

      The Ron Clark Story is a 2006 television film based on the real educator Ron Clark. It centers on the title character, a white teacher from a small town, who moves to New York City and tries to make a difference in the lives of his minority students. Naturally, nobody, including the students themselves, believes in them.

       The movie touches upon several educational problems. Let me start with the problem of teaching. Nowadays there are lots of teaching methods, thus some schools remain using the traditional methods. In the movie we may witness such a problem. In fact, the principal wished to have pupils' high scores for tests in order to have governmental funding. The principal used to the traditional methods and doesn't believe in the innovative ones. Nevertheless, Ron Clark continues his innovative teaching.

       One more problem that is touched upon by the movie is the discipline problem. Ron Clark gets a class with poor marks and a poor motivation. Pupils just don't want to study. From the very beginning they enjoyed being naughty at lessons. Ron Clark, in my opinion, is a real teacher. He loves children and is sure in their great potential to learning. So, Ron Clark does everything as a teacher, trying to gain respect from both teachers and pupils. He tries different techniques, for example:  use of visual aids and use of songs. His main principles are: to be a family, respect each other, dream big and take risks. Only with the help of these principles, Ron Clark can motivate the children.

       Surely, the motivation isn't enough. For excellent results the kids should do exercises, read books and remember lots of facts. Apparently, it's quite difficult to combine studies with the help to parents, especially when there is lots of it. The movie shows us the children from problem families or families with the only parent and many kids. The pupils have a lot of things to do. Indeed, Ron Clark gives extra classes in cafes, at home throughout the week.

      Even when he falls ill, he records his lessons for kids. At last, his efforts haven't been wasted. His pupils get high scores at the exam.

       Finally, the movie The Ron Clark Story shows the education system from the inside. As a result, the education problems become evident. Unfortunately, nowadays most children are not really motivated in studying. They do not realize their potential. From the first lessons children may be discouraged by a teacher. That's why each school demands such great teachers as Ron Clark.

           Speaking about directing I can say that it was really good. The movie was made in 1998 and there were not special effects or super quality picture but it was not necessary at the same time. The story was shown as it was without embellishment: we can see the dirty streets, poor apartments. The atmosphere of the worst suburb of New York was conveyed in the best way

          In conclusion I would like to say that I like this film so much because it shows us strength of mind, true grit, and unlimited belief. Ron Clark is a born teacher, he knows how to behave with the most difficult children and I admire him. I think that almost everyone gave up in this situation but he could cope with any kind of difficulties and became the person who his students love and respect.