Documentary 'Multiple Choice' Calls for Education System Reform at Newport Screening

A Call for Bold Education Reform in Newport

Last week, over 300 educators, workforce leaders, and community members came together at Salve Regina University in Newport, Rhode Island, for the world premiere of the documentary "Multiple Choice." Produced by the acclaimed Ted Dintersmith, this film presents a compelling argument for reforming the current education system to better prepare students for the demands of today's workforce.

The documentary emphasizes the urgent need to incorporate career-based learning into high school curricula. By showcasing the innovative practices at the Emil Grace Shihadeh Innovation Center in Winchester, Virginia, where students engage in a blend of academic theory and hands-on experience, "Multiple Choice" sets out to reshape the narrative around educational pathways. This integrated approach not only enhances students' futures but also fosters community engagement and spurs local economic development.

Dintersmith argues that transforming the outdated education system is not merely optional, but essential. The Innovation Center exemplifies a new paradigm, where students delve into various subjects, from carpentry and welding to cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. This strategy ensures that whether students intend to enter the workforce directly or pursue higher education, they are equipped with valuable skills and experiences that will set them apart.

For too long, vocational education has been overshadowed by the stigma of being a "lesser" choice. However, "Multiple Choice" captures how the Innovation Center actively breaks this cycle, ensuring that every student has access to both rigorous academic courses and practical, career-aligned training. Jason van Heukelum, Superintendent of Winchester Public Schools, stated, "The purpose of school is not simply to be good at school—it's to prepare students for life."

Katie Lockhart, the Coordinator of Career Technical Education, reaffirmed the universal nature of this new approach: "It is for everybody—the college-bound and the workforce-bound. High school should be the time when students discover what excites them about the future, while it's still free and accessible to all."

Director Charles Haine added that combining classical education with hands-on applications is crucial for effective learning. He highlighted that the issues raised in the film resonate globally, as educators and families engage in similar discussions about the need for change.

The timing of the film's release is particularly relevant, given the current complexities of the U.S. labor market. Statistics show that recent graduates are facing unemployment rates exceeding 40%. As artificial intelligence and technological advancements continue to reshape job requirements, many graduates find themselves unprepared for the workforce.

Simultaneously, skilled trades are experiencing significant shortages, leading to rising wages and opportunities in sectors like advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and information technology. "Multiple Choice" advocates for graduates to possess both academic grounding and practical skills to navigate this evolving landscape effectively.

Dintersmith is no stranger to critiquing the traditional education system. His previous work, including the film "Most Likely to Succeed" and the book "What School Could Be," has sparked nationwide conversations about the necessity of educational transformation. With the release of his upcoming book, "Aftermath," he continues to address the gaps between conventional educational models and the practical skills essential for success in the modern world.

Media outlets are recognizing the film's important message, with Dintersmith discussing the urgent need to balance intellectual rigor with practical preparation in interviews. The mixed approach of Advanced Placement courses and Career Technical Education provides students with the necessary tools and flexibility to shape their futures.

For those interested in attending screenings or learning more about "Multiple Choice," additional information can be found at whatschoolcouldbe.org/multiplechoice. This documentary isn't just a film; it represents a movement towards meaningful change in the education system—a crucial step toward preparing students for the realities of the 21st-century workforce.

About Ted Dintersmith

Ted Dintersmith is a celebrated author, speaker, and film producer dedicated to revolutionizing education. As the founder of the nonprofit What School Could Be, he champions the cause of equipping young people with the skills and experiences they need to thrive in a world shaped by rapid technological change. Dintersmith holds a PhD in Engineering from Stanford and has received various accolades, including the NEA's Friend of Education Award. His impactful work aims to create educational opportunities that are relevant, engaging, and inclusive.