martha ann stallings : lessons learned : an oscar-winning documentary reveals the impact a down's syndrome child has on a "normal classroom" - cameras in classrooms

1992 Academy Award "education Peter"
The award-winning short film aired on HBO on Wednesday tells the story of third-grade student Peter Gwazdauskas when he entered the "normal" classroom in Va BLACKSBURG.
Prior to this, Peter was only in the classroom with other disabled teenagers.
"Peter of education" records his first year at Gilbert links Elementary School, and the impact this has on him, his classmates, and their teacher, Martha Ann Stallin
The experience of steeling and author Michelle Willens.
Do you hesitate to put your camera in the classroom?
I have to say I was a little shocked when they asked me and I wanted to think about it.
My main concern is that the camera will invade and, after all, I have children to teach.
But I was sure it was a project worth doing, so I said, "Well, let's get started.
"How often is the camera actually there?
They stayed in the classroom four times, about five days each time.
Got off from Peter until he left and they stayed there all the time.
But the crew are very sensitive to our needs and mood.
They tried to be in the room no more than two at a time and they took a break when they saw we had a really bad morning or needed some breathing time.
How about when the school first came into contact with the Down syndrome kids in your class?
Any fear or selfdoubts?
Last spring, I met his parents on a special program at our school about "inclusion.
"Later, I heard the news from Peter's mother, who asked me if I was considering taking Peter away.
I don't know if I'm ready, though I 've taught some cram schools in the past.
However, as a teacher, I have always enjoyed changing and excited about the opportunity to do something different.
I feel anxious about it, but common sense tells me that it has to be a better situation for Peter.
Are you worried? -
Other parents are worried. -
How do you educate Peter?
How much time is there to teach others? Oh yes.
I met with other parents very early to explain the situation.
Surprisingly, only one parent told me that she had questions about whether the approach was feasible or not, but she even said, "I am willing to support you.
"Parents breathed a sigh of relief when I brought a full child
The main concern is Peter's time teaching assistant.
And then they knew I didn't do it all.
I also have my own concerns, mainly that I can teach Peter.
I observed him in his former self.
Lack of educational ability.
But I began to learn that it was partly because he was surrounded by others like him, and the whole scene was very frustrating.
In the movies, we see that Peter often plays other children.
Is he mainly a matter of discipline?
The first question is to make him feel comfortable.
He basically knows that he is not suitable, so the way he expresses his feelings is by misbehaving.
He also needs attention and, frankly, he is unpredictable.
When the whole class gets together, figure out how to give Peter positive feedback and tell him when his behavior is incorrect.
Academics are not a concern for me because I can't teach him until I control his behavior.
What is the answer to this question?
The other children wanted to set a good example for Peter, which was very good for him.
In the end I can treat him like I do with others.
When he is doing something wrong, he is deprived of his privilege, or he is shortened to rest time.
Normal things.
Since these kids can fit into the normal classroom, do you have any questions? Is inclusion rather than mainstream a solution?
I have no doubt.
I haven't seen a successful case yet.
I may not have said that a year and a half ago, but the ending last year was positive.
Now he is doing better in the fourth grade.
How do you review that year compared to your other teachers?
This is my greatest academic challenge, the hardest and the most rewarding.
I know that I can do this even if I don't have a special educational background.
This is to treat Peter as an individual.
Were you surprised when the film won an Oscar?
I couldn't believe HBO was going to make the movie at first, and then when it was nominated, I couldn't believe it.
Now that we have gone so far, I believe everything.
Do you think you are the best supporting actress?
Oh, a little, but the kids are really stars. .
Unfortunately, that night was a bit of a hassle for us because Peter's brother was killed in an accident the day before.
We are still celebrating, but the celebration is much lower. key.
Who learned the most last year?
Peter, are you the other kids?
Although I have learned a lot, I may say children.
I only remember how nervous the other kids were on the first day.
They raised him and suffocated him, but they knew that the disabled did not want to be treated like this.
Yes, I think the children around Peter grew up the most.
Education Peter aired at 9: 30 on Wednesdaym.
Saturday night at 6. m. on HBO.