Hopeville

Harvey Hubbell V is a casualty of “The Reading Wars.” As a child with dyslexia, he struggled in school, where they failed to teach him using the same literacy methods that are used today. As an adult, he discovered that there is a way to teach all kids to read that isn’t being used in most schools, that method is called the science of reading. That information started his quest to change how literacy is taught.

To prove that the new system works, he spends a year with a class of diverse first graders and their teachers in Waterbury CT, to provide a never-before-seen look into the challenging process of learning to read. The kids work tirelessly to prepare for an end of the year test which will determine if they will move on to 2nd grade, or not.

Not only does Hubbell show us solutions in the classroom, he travels the country to give a voice to the diverse cast of passionate educators, researchers, and determined individuals who are fighting the status quo.

From intimate interviews with struggling students, to riveting classroom observations, "Hopeville" immerses audiences in the real-world experiences of those affected by the literacy crisis. The film sheds light on the emotional toll faced by individuals grappling with low literacy skills and the barriers they encounter in their pursuit of education and opportunities.

These beacons demonstrate the transformative power of successful literacy instruction. "Hopeville: How to Win the Reading Wars" is an eye-opening, empowering documentary that serves as a rallying cry for change.

On his journey, Hubbell showcases inspiring success stories of communities that have embraced the latest cutting-edge methods of reading instruction. "Hopeville: How to Win the Reading Wars" is an eye-opening, empowering documentary that serves as a rallying cry for change.