By Michael Ganci, Local Media Editor, Syntax, for The Bronxville School

Apr. 27, 2016:  The Bronxville School invites parents, students, and faculty members to a free screening of the documentary Most Likely to Succeed on May 11 at 6:30 pm in the school's auditorium. It will be followed by a discussion about the educational system in the United States.

"This is an excellent film to see as a community because it prompts an important conversation on educating for the innovation era," director of curriculum Dr. Mara Koetke said. "Further, Most Likely to Succeed demonstrates the importance of nurturing our students as collaborators and communicators and aligns with the work of the Bronxville Promise and our partnership with the Buck Institute for Education and project-based learning."

The film focuses on the story of a school in San Diego that is rethinking what the experience of going to school in the 21st century looks like. It shows how the school is educating students who not only have solid content understanding but also can think critically and apply their learning.

Following the film screening, which is being done in partnership with the PTA, Dr. Koetke will lead a panel discussion regarding the issues raised in the documentary. Panelists will include high school social studies teacher Dana Landesman, elementary school teacher Louise Lebrini, middle school English teacher Kathryn Marron, elementary school principal Tricia Murray, high school student Ohto Pentikainen, and high school social studies teacher Christina Reidel.

"I hope teachers, students, and parents will join us so we can get multiple perspectives on the film's message," Dr. Koetke said. "It should be a wonderful evening that generates thought-provoking discussion that will extend beyond the screening."

PTA member Mirella Tronco said that she believes that parents and students should be part of an important discussion about the future of education.

"We all need to understand that our children will function in a completely different world from the last century," Tronco said. "As such, learning experiences need to adapt to meet the new demands of an innovation era. I hope the evening will energize our community to support the changes needed in our school."

The event is open to all parents, middle school and high school students, and faculty members. For more information, to reserve your free tickets, or to watch a trailer for the documentary, please visit the Bronxville PTA's website at www.bronxvillepta.org.

Photo courtesy The Bronxville School