Since 2014, Wideline Seraphin and Ana Díaz have been collecting narratives from members of marginalized communities about their experiences living in State College and Centre County. A few of these stories will be featured in the mini-documentary “Schooling Narratives,” which focuses on the experiences of three families in the State College Area School District.
Seraphin said the student narratives have been used at the State College Area High School to rethink inclusion in a classroom space.
“Our student narratives at the high school level are now being used to help not just administrators but teachers and community members understand, you know, schooling is different when you’re not the majority,” Seraphin said.
In the mini-documentary, students, a mother, a grandmother and a community activist discuss their struggles with racism, as well as the changes they hope to see as the school district works toward educational equity. Seraphin said these narratives are intended to create a greater understanding that will then lead to action to support everyone in the community.
“This project allows us not only to hear and acknowledge and bear witness, but then take steps, take action to make sure we are holding everyone accountable and supporting everyone in this community,” Seraphin said.
The documentary “Schooling Narratives” will be screened on Monday at 6 p.m. in Heritage Hall at the Penn State HUB-Robeson Center. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion featuring State College Area School District parents.
