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Blackboard Wars

Blackboard Wars

John McDonogh High School in New Orleans used to be known for failing academic performance and a culture of violence. In 2012, education innovator Steve Barr, CEO of nonprofit Future Is Now, was put in charge of the school and tasked with turning it around. Marvin Thompson -- chosen by Barr to become principal -- and the rest of the newly hired school staff work to create a safe environment for students while also setting clear expectations for student behavior and promoting school pride and unity. In addition to following members of the staff, the series also explores some of the issues the students face, including homelessness, drug use and teenage pregnancy.
1 seasonReality, DocumentaryTV-14
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Season 15 of 6 Episodes

  • A principal and his staff begin the process of transforming one of the worst high schools in the country.

  • Principal Thompson deals with unrest from the teachers over the lack of a strong disciplinary system.

  • The school celebrates homecoming; resistance from community members threatens to derail the school's progress.

  • A shooting incident off-campus serves as a reminder to the school's violent past.

  • Tensions run high; Dr. Thompson rushes to the aid of a suicidal student.
Blackboard Wars

More about Blackboard Wars

John McDonogh High School in New Orleans used to be known for failing academic performance and a culture of violence. In 2012, education innovator Steve Barr, CEO of nonprofit Future Is Now, was put in charge of the school and tasked with turning it around. Marvin Thompson -- chosen by Barr to become principal -- and the rest of the newly hired school staff work to create a safe environment for students while also setting clear expectations for student behavior and promoting school pride and unity. In addition to following members of the staff, the series also explores some of the issues the students face, including homelessness, drug use and teenage pregnancy.

Starring

Marvin Thompson, Steve Barr, Baye Cobb

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