Film Lens
Race to Nowhere is a documentary film directed by Vicki Abeles and Jessica Congdon, released in 2009. The film addresses the issue of academic stress among students, prompted by the tragic case of a 13-year-old girl who committed suicide due to school pressures. Abeles reflects on the impact of the educational system on children, sharing stories of students who are overwhelmed by the demands of schoolwork and the expectations for high performance to gain admission to top universities.
The film features narratives from young people across the United States who have faced extreme stress, as well as insights from educators concerned about students' development and parents striving to support their children. It aims to raise awareness about the systemic issues within the education culture that contribute to the mental strain on students.
Why Watch
- •See the real stories of students pushed to their limits.
- •Meet educators worried about students' skill development.
- •Find out why parents struggle with academic pressures.
Did You Know
•The film was inspired by the suicide of a 13-year-old girl due to academic pressure.
•Vicki Abeles began making changes at home after realizing the systemic nature of the problem.
•Diane Ravitch, a former Assistant Secretary of Education, praised the film as notable.
Perfect For
Parents of school-aged childrenEducators and school administratorsMental health advocates