If one needs an example of just how broken the schooling system has become, they may not need to look much further than Bertie County in North Carolina. Students there find themselves stuck behind computer terminals where most of their classes take place online—even phys ed—offering them little chance of interacting with fellow classmates, teachers or the community at large. But all that is about to change.
Director Patrick Creadon (“Wordplay,” “I.O.U.S.A.“) chronicles how Bertie County is changed by the arrival of designer/activists Emily Pilloton and Matt Miller in his forthcoming documentary “If You Build It.” The pair work with the students on a year long project that sees them eventually constructing an entire farmers market, which proves to be an inspiring and life-changing endeavor for all involved. But as you’ll see in this exclusive clip, highlighting the current educational experience the kids have, Pilloton and Miller will have a long way to go.
After winning the Outstanding Achievement in Filmmaking – Art, Architecture + Design Award at the Newport Beach Film Festival, “If You Build It” will open in limited release on January 10th. Clip and official trailer below.
