A School Grows in Watts

About the film

In one of the most notoriously under-served cities in the country, an innovative elementary school works toward a re-imagined future through a community-based approach to education.

Weaving together the personal narratives of educators, students, and families involved with the Watts Learning Center, A School Grows in Watts explores the vibrant yet misunderstood community of Watts, highlighting its complex history and prevailing systemic obstacles through the ongoing work of a mighty school with humble beginnings.

The film paints a lyrical portrait of a school and a community working in unison that celebrates the rich legacy of Watts and uplifts its most vulnerable children. With an empathetic approach and strong observational lens, the film weaves an ensemble of complex characters — including students, teachers, parents, policymakers, community members, and others — as they interact with both the school and community over the course of a single school year.