THE FILM SERIES
The series follows one aspiring educator (Carlos) and one considering leaving the field (Julia), as they travel the country and struggle with the realities of the education profession. By engaging with business leaders, students, teachers, policymakers, community members, and beyond, the series aims to spark national conversations about complex issues in education in order to create positive, meaningful change.
The goal of the film series is to identify those things that contribute to a thriving educator workforce and those that detract. What are the conditions that would make Julia want to return to the classroom? What will Carlos need to see and hear to keep him on the path to entering the field? The film series will spark conversations intended to reignite society’s appreciation for teachers and shape policies resulting in a more attractive and sustainable profession.
THE FILM SERIES IS DESIGNED TO EXPLORE THE EVER WIDENING GULF BETWEEN THE EXPERIENCES OF THOSE WHO WORK IN EDUCATION, AND THE PERCEPTIONS OF THOSE OUTSIDE.
MEET THE CAST
JULIA
JULIA BARRETT, FORMER EDUCATOR
she/her/they
In December of 2022, I resigned my position as a K-8 health teacher in Philadelphia. Having just left a budding career teaching in private and public schools, coaching, and tutoring, I decided to join the Who Taught You team to figure out what my future in education will look like. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to bring my passion for working with young people and advocating for educators and students towards exploring the realities of the education profession today.
CARLOS
CARLOS ORTEGA, ASPIRING EDUCATOR
he/him/his
I'm a Junior Secondary Education Social Science Major at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. I am also part of the Teacher Scholars Academy, a scholarship that focuses on preparing the next generation of impactful educators. I've always known that teaching is my calling, but in the society that we are moving into, I've has become unsure. Becoming a cast member in this film series is helping me to explore my options and to see where I fit into the education system.