Join Historic Newton, Newton Cultural Alliance at the West Newton Cinema (1296 Washington Street) on Tuesday, October 14 at 6:30-7:45PM for a viewing of An Uncommon Education: The Allen School followed by a panel discussion.
ABOUT THE FILM
At a time when slavery was still the law of the land and women’s suffrage still a distant goal, the West Newton English and Classical School admitted Black students, international students, and women to a forward-looking program of study. Founded in 1854 and led by Nathaniel T. Allen, the school (often called the Allen School) empowered its students to develop their talents while moving society decisively toward gender, racial, and educational equality. The inclusion of gymnastics as part of the educational offering, along with kindergarten, were also educational firsts.
AN UNCOMMON EDUCATION: THE ALLEN SCHOOL restores a little-known piece of history in Massachusetts, a state that values education and has been a pioneer in fostering inclusion. Early in his career, Allen worked closely with progressive educator Horace Mann, the first Secretary of the Massachusetts State Board of Education, and lived for a time in Mann’s home in West Newton. Many of the ideas that Allen helped develop are still relevant today.
PANEL DISCUSSION:
SARA LEAVITT GOLDBERG, Project Director/Producer and Co-Curator of the film and exhibition An Uncommon Education: The Allen School, is a public historian and archivist dedicated to uncovering and sharing community stories through collaborative projects. Sara served as Archivist and Curator of Manuscripts and Photographs for over a decade at Historic Newton. She is the recipient of the Massachusetts History Alliance STAR Award (2022) for her long-term commitment to equity and justice in local and public history.
JOE HUNTER is an award-winning producer of historical documentaries, known for his fluid storytelling that weaves images, music and interviews into a compelling whole. His films have received several First Place awards in the Documentary Profile category from the Alliance for Community Media and Best in Show from NewTV, the City of Newton’s cable access station. His career in communications has included stints as a broadcast reporter, communication director, free-lance writer, producer and consultant.
For tickets, click here.
