Ep 11. Best Kept Secret

Best Kept Secret is the 11th episode of the 26th season of POV. This powerful and thought-provoking documentary takes an intimate look into the experiences of teachers, students, and families in a public school in Newark, New Jersey. The school known as "John F. Kennedy High School" is a school for children with autism and learning disabilities.

The documentary follows the life of Janet Mino, a special education teacher at the school as she strives to improve the lives of her students and prepare them for the challenges of life after high school. The film provides insight into the struggles that families of children with autism and learning disabilities face and the importance of education in their lives.

Throughout the documentary, Janet Mino is shown to be a tireless advocate for her students, working long hours and offering constant support to both them and their families. We see her interact with each student on a personal level, addressing their individual needs and working with them to achieve success.

As the film unfolds, we see the challenges faced by the students and their families as they navigate the educational system. The students' learning disabilities and other challenges make it difficult for them to keep up with the general curriculum and standardized tests. The film raises important questions about the role of public schools in providing equitable education to all students regardless of their abilities.

Best Kept Secret also sheds light on the impact of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the efforts to integrate students with disabilities into mainstream classrooms. It highlights the importance of inclusive education and the changes that need to be made in the education system to make it more accessible to students with disabilities.

The film also presents a sobering reality that many families of children with disabilities face; the challenges of transitioning their children from school to adult life. The documentary shows the difficulties faced by parents and the limited resources available to them. It raises important questions about the role of the education system in preparing students for post-high school life and the need for resources and support for families in this transition.

Overall, Best Kept Secret is a powerful and engaging documentary that offers insight into the education system, the challenges faced by families of children with disabilities, and the need for change. Through the lens of a dedicated teacher and her students, the film raises important questions about the role of education in our society and highlights the importance of inclusive education and equity for all students. It is a must-see for all those interested in education, disability rights, and social justice.