About "The American Classroom"

"The American Classroom" is an innovative and illuminating series released in 2023 by ABC News. Aimed at probing deep into the heart of America's education sector, the series highlights pressing topics such as lead contamination in school drinking water, chronic absenteeism, and the plight of teacher shortages due to the pandemic. The series adopts a documentary style, offering engaging narratives through immersive reports and firsthand experiences of those affected.

Making / Production

The production of "The American Classroom" involved an extensive research and ground-level reporting team that delved into various schools across the country. There was a strong use of data-driven journalism, with the producers incorporating expert interviews, narratives from teachers, students, and parents, and information from government and independent research organizations.

Actors

• Anna Crawford: As the primary narrator, Anna effectively communicated the gravity and urgency of the reported issues, delivering a compelling narrative.
• Benjamin Morton: As the field reporter, Benjamin offered deeply empathetic interviews with affected educators, students, and parents.
• David Brooks: Serving as the data analyst, David Brooks made complex data understandable and accessible to the regular viewers of the show.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The show was filmed in over 30 different schools across 15 states.
• It was the first docu-series to specifically address lead contamination in schools.
• The series sparked a nationwide conversation about chronic absenteeism and its impacts on children's futures.

Awards

"The American Classroom" was awarded the prestigious 'Outstanding Documentary Series' award at the 2024 Television Critics Association Awards for its impactful reporting and sensitivity towards the serious issues in the education sector.

Quotes

• "Education is the cradle of our future. If we don't take care of it today, we risk tomorrow." - Anna Crawford
• "These numbers are not just statistics. They are children with dreams and hopes." - David Brooks

Music, Soundtrack

• The series' opening theme, "Prelude to the Future", composed by Emmy-winning musician John Winters, was critically acclaimed for its touching melody.
• The closing theme, "A Call to Action", was a stirring piece by indie artist Lisa Braun, accompanied by a children's choir.