Summary Of Paper Tigers

For this assignment I chose to watch the documentary, “Paper Tigers”. This documentary followed various students that attended Lincoln High Alternative School, along with the teachers and administration of Lincoln High Alternative School. Through following the various students chosen for this film who had experienced adverse childhood experiences, also known as ACE’s, it allowed the viewers to see the perspective from the teenagers point of view and what they were experiencing outside of school, that could have caused the behaviors demonstrated in the school setting. Paper Tigers was very eye opening for me to watch and in a way made me feel convicted, after seeing the side of these teenagers, that most do not see. Paper Tigers allowed the

But instead, they were betrayed, neglected, ignored, placed on the backburner, kicked out, and forgotten about. Paper Tigers is focused on teachers and administrator’s looking beyond the behavior of the child and finding the cause of the behavior, because they understand that the behavior is only a symptom of a trauma they have experienced or are experiencing. The teachers and administrators are educated on the risk factors that come along with having ACE’s and they know and understand that the higher the ACE score, the higher the child is at risk. ACE scores being so important to the teachers and administrators, they make it a priority to ensure that they know what each student’s ACE score is. By knowing the student’s ACE score, it allows the teachers and administrators to know how to best assist that student in succeeding in life, which is the ultimate goal. In doing this, they show compassion, love, grace, and unconditional love to these students to let them know that they have someone in their corner through all stages of life, the good and the

This documentary exemplified the importance of connection, and how one healthy connection with a caring adult can turn a child’s life around. All it takes is one. Understanding the effects of trauma and how trauma can rewire a child’s brain, is a critical lens to look through when working with students. However, I would like to add that it is also important not to stereotype the type of children who come from ACE’s. I have peers who on paper look like the perfect student, but internally, they are struggling to not become what they came from, due to the ACE’s they experienced as a child. ACE’s do not pick and choose which child will receive them. Any child is prone to experience ACE’s, and it is important to treat every child the