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Deep Dive: Precious Knowledge (2012)

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Precious Knowledge
Precious Knowledge is a documentary that focuses on the banning of the Mexican-American Studies (MAS) Program in the Tucson Unified School District of Arizona. Directed by Ari Luis Palos and produced by Eren Isabel McGinnis, the film presents the experiences of students and teachers involved in the MAS Program, which aimed to connect students with the history and culture of indigenous Americas. The documentary details the legislative backlash against the program, led by Tom Horne, who argued it promoted 'anti-American' values. The film also shows the significant achievements of the MAS Program, which was created in 1997 to address the high Latino dropout rate. By 2002, the program had improved standardized test scores and graduation rates among Latino students, with an average graduation rate of 93%. Despite the program's eventual removal, the film presents the efforts of MAS teachers and students who challenged the ban in federal court, emphasizing the importance of ethnic studies in education.

Why Watch

  • •See the impact of the MAS Program on Latino students.
  • •Meet teachers like Curtis Acosta advocating for ethnic studies.
  • •Find out about the legal battle against the program's ban.

Did You Know

•The MAS Program was created in 1997 to lower the Latino dropout rate.
•In 2011, the film won Audience Favorite and Special Jury Awards at the San Diego Latino Film Festival.
•Tucson Unified School District reported a 93% graduation rate for MAS students.

Perfect For

Education policyMexican-American cultureEthnic studies advocacy