Chalk

Running time: 87 mins

In the comedic tradition of Arrested Development and The Office, Chalk pulls its viewer into the frenetic and awkwardly painful journey of three novice high school teachers as they navigate one memorable school year.

Director Mike Akel covers one comedic year in the lives of three teachers and an assistant principal as they struggle to reach the often adamant youth of Harrison High. There?s Mr. Stroope, the arrogant history teacher who launches his own campaign for teacher-of-the-year. There?s Coach Webb, the overbearing and loveless P.E. instructor who practices yoga in the teachers? break room. There?s awkward Mr. Lowry, who bases his decision to teach on a couple of aptitude tests that suggest teaching?or veterinary medicine. And finally, there?s Mrs. Reddell, the former choir instructor who gets promoted to Assistant Principal because ?Mr. Fletcher was found guilty?so there was an opening.?

Director Mike Akel provides a rare and realistic teacher?s perspective into the absurd, provocative and occasionally volatile world of public education, where ?fifty percent of America?s teachers quit within their first three years.? Ultimately as touching as it is comedic, Chalk offers a hilarious and hopeful look at public education in America.

Preceded by: Super Power Blues; dir. Greg Pak; 7min.; The story of a superheroine who has to save the world day after day?when all she really wants to do is sleep with her boyfriend.

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