Beyond the Blackboard (2011)

A 24-year-old first-time teacher overcomes her initial fears and prejudices and makes a difference in the lives of the homeless children she teaches in a shelter's makeshift classroom.

Director:

Jeff Bleckner

Writers:

Camille Thomasson, Stacey Bess (book)

Stars:

Emily VanCamp, Steve Talley, Timothy Busfield

1 win & 5 nominations.

Cast

Cast overview, first billed only:
Emily VanCamp	...	Stacey Bess
Steve Talley	...	Greg Bess
Timothy Busfield	...	School district's HR representative
Julio Oscar Mechoso	...	Johnny Hernandez
Nicki Aycox	...	Candy
Kiersten Warren	...	Danny's Mom
Treat Williams	...	Dr. Warren
Liam McKanna	...	Danny
Paola Andino	...	Maria
Luis Jose Lopez	...	Carlos
Deidrie Henry	...	Patricia
Luce Rains	...	Joe
Mathew Greer	...	Nelson Parker (as Mat Greer)
Savannah McReynolds	...	Nicole Bess
Colin Baiocchi	...	Brandon Bess

Storyline

A 24-year-old first-time teacher overcomes her initial fears and prejudices and makes a difference in the lives of the homeless children she teaches in a shelter's makeshift classroom.

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Plot Keywords:

pregnant woman | pregnant wife | pregnant teacher | new job | first day on the job | 

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Taglines:

Her students were homeless. Her journey was unforgettable.

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Genres:

Drama | Family

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Certificate:

PG

Did You Know?

Trivia

In an epilogue to the original broadcast, Emily VanCamp introduced the real Stacey Bess, who spoke on behalf of education for the homeless.

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Connections

References Waiting for Superman (2010)

User Reviews

Beyond the average 'inspirational teacher' film

I've seen Beyond The Blackboard a couple of times now and each time it has proved to be an enjoyable watch.

While films about inspirational teachers getting the best out of wayward children are pretty common what separates this one from the rest is the heart and strength of the script behind it. It goes against the normal cliché's and this makes for a better film.

It is helped by the fact that Emily Van Camp (better known to many as Emily in Revenge and Amy in the dearly missed Everwood) gives a great performance as Stacey and is supported by some good performances from the young children playing her pupils. Fans of the formerly mentioned Everwood will like the sight of Van Camp working with Treat Williams again and their chemistry shines through in the limited scenes they have together. It is also nice to see Cal from Studio 60 (aka Timothy Busfield) also appear in this above average TV movie.

Details

Country:

USA

Language:

English

Release Date:

24 April 2011 (USA)

Also Known As:

Hallmark Hall of Fame: Beyond the Blackboard (#60.3)

Filming Locations:

New Mexico, USA

Company Credits

Production Co:

Hallmark Hall of Fame Productions

Technical Specs

Sound Mix:

Stereo

Color:

Color

Aspect Ratio:

1.78 : 1