America to Me
A year-long immersion into one of Chicago's most progressive and diverse public schools, located in suburban Oak Park. Both intimate and epic, exploring America's charged state of race, culture and education today with unprecedented depth and scope.
Overview
A year-long immersion into one of Chicago's most progressive and diverse public schools, located in suburban Oak Park. Both intimate and epic, exploring America's charged state of race, culture and education today with unprecedented depth and scope.
Steve James
Creator / EP
Episodes
1. What's the Big Deal About Oak Park?
The school year begins at OPRF for Grant, Tiara, Charles, Terrence and Ke'Shawn. Controversy over a Black Lives Matter assembly still reverberates as the school confronts years of racial inequities.
2. Stranger in a Room
Teacher Jess Stovall intervenes in Ke'Shawn's academic struggles. His mother shares her own troubled history at OPRF. Senior Kendale and junior Chanti grapple with identity. Homecoming Dance is very special for Grant.
3. There is No Pain That Compares to the Struggle
Kendale wrestles to become a starter, while Chanti wresles with emotional trauma. Jess takes on the principal, and senior Jada takes on a teacher. OPRF's football team has a big game and a score to settle.
Cast & Crew
Brendan Barrette
Himself
Diane Barrios-Smith
Herself
Jada Buford
Herself
Charles Donalson
Himself
Caroline Robling-Griest
Herself
Ke'Shawn Kumsa
Himself
