Discounted Dreams

Statistic show that while U.S. community college admissions continue to climb, less than 50% of students are actually graduating. In this PBS-aired documentary, veteran correspondent John Merrow presents the stories of several students in large urban centers, including a former gang member and father studying culinary arts, a young woman hoping to use community college as a stepping stone to a four-year institution, and a working single mother who dreams of becoming a veterinarian. Some will achieve their goals, while others won't—but all face hardships along the way. Discounted Dreams explores the reasons behind the high non-completion rate, including the fact that many students try to balance school with raising a family, full-time jobs, and long daily commutes. Interwoven throughout are the perspectives of school staff (including administrators, teachers, and counselors), who touch on issues of chronic underfunding and the realities of academic achievement in institutions with open-door admissions policies. A fine overview of the current situation in community colleges, this is recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (C. Block)