Inspire Change: Discover "The First Class" Documentary

Edward Montalvo – Director, Educator Network

A New Film for Educators

In my career as a high school educator, numerous films have documented the experience of high school learning, notably “Most Likely to Succeed” and “Bully.” I have watched both films at home and during my professional development experiences. They made me rethink my instructional practices and become a better teacher for my students. These films are part of the canon for high school educators—living in the same space as influential books like “Teaching to Transgress” and “Design for Belonging.”

While dozens of books outline the educator experience through their storytelling, I wanted a documentary that shows what innovation looks like. Something I could point to and see not only a reflection of my teaching experiences but also a window into the shared passion of our dedication to student learning.

Now, that documentary exists. It’s called “The First Class.”

?? A Film about Students & Educators

Directed by Lee Hirsch (“Bully”), "The First Class” is a documentary about the journey of Crosstown High 's founding class, following the students and teachers at this Memphis public high school from their first day of ninth grade to graduation. It highlights the school's mission to engage students in real-world projects, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs of implementing a student-led, creative teaching methodology.

Crosstown High was designed by parents, teachers, students, and other community members in Memphis to take a different approach to education and to heal their city’s long history of racial segregation with a diverse-by-design system for recruiting students all over Memphis, making education more equitable for all.

?? Why This Matters for Educators

“The First Class” closely follows students and teachers alike. But what sets this film apart and makes it so important is that we see the whole story of a school–its design, learnings, and impact. The English and social studies teachers co-teach a project where students interview local refugees and then show their learnings in various presentations for the community to explore. The science teacher challenges her class to figure out ways to sustain life on Mars, and when students question their learning, she helps them discover their growth.

Moreover, we witness the school’s evolution before and after the Covid pandemic’s shutdown. It’s heartening to see Crosstown High renew its spirit of innovation when educators need it most, and how much this learning style means to the students who thrive at Crosstown.

"The First Class" is more than just a film; it's a mirror reflecting the potential of our high schools. It challenges us to rethink the boundaries of our classrooms and curricula, encouraging a learning environment where students are not just learners but creators, innovators, and problem solvers.

?? A Tool for Professional Growth

For those looking to deepen our professional practice, I encourage you to view the film in the same environment as other great education documentaries–with your professional learning communities.

XQ has thoughtfully prepared a discussion guide to accompany “The First Class” along with additional resources to support educators who, after watching the film, want to rethink what’s possible for their high school communities.

This discussion guide fosters powerful learnings and conversations and is an excellent tool for educator growth and strategic planning. Whether rethinking teaching practices or seeking fresh inspiration, it facilitates meaningful discussions that can lead to transformative changes in our classrooms and schools.

?? How to Watch with Your Team

XQ Institute is providing "The First Class" and related materials free of charge, making them accessible to educators, families, and policymakers. This is an excellent opportunity for professional learning communities and high school teams to watch together, lead discussions, and host screenings. Visit TheFirstClass.org to learn more.

Watch the Film.

?? Join the Movement

Let "The First Class" catalyze conversation and action in your community. As you watch the journey of Crosstown High, consider how you can apply these insights to changing the learning experience within your schools. Take part in conversations shaping the future of learning by joining our Facebook Group, XQ Xchange, to share your thoughts about the film and explore ideas from educators across the country. Together, we can shape a future where every student's educational experience is as engaging and impactful as what Crosstown High provides.

XQ Stories & Updates:

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Share With Us:

Contribute stories and insights about high school transformation with us on social @XQAmerica using #RethinkHighSchool, and we will include them in a later edition of the Xtra.

?? Or send us a message directly at [email protected]

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