The Graduates/Los Graduados is a two-part documentary series that premiered on PBS in 2013. The show aims to examine the challenges faced by Latino students as they strive to finish high school and proceed with higher education. The show also delves into the personal stories of the students and the obstacles they face in their pursuit of education.
The series was directed by Bernardo Ruiz and produced by Katia Maguire. The first part of the series focuses on the struggles of Latino male students in Los Angeles, while the second part gives insight into the experiences of Latina students in Texas. The show emphasizes the importance of education and highlights the success stories of Latino students who have made it through the education system despite the odds against them.
The series features interviews with students, teachers, parents, and school administrators who give their perspectives on the issue of Latino education. In Los Angeles, the show follows several male students as they navigate their way through high school. The students come from different backgrounds, including one who is a recent immigrant, another who comes from a gang-affiliated neighborhood, and a third who has experienced homelessness. The show also interviews teachers who provide insights into the obstacles that these students face in the education system.
In Texas, the series focuses on Latina students from dysfunctional families who struggle to complete high school. The show examines the cultural attitudes towards Latina women and how it affects their education. The series highlights the unique challenges Latina women face in the education system, including cultural expectations, societal pressures, and economic disadvantages. The show also features interviews with teachers and school administrators who provide insights into the realities and struggles of Latina students.
Throughout the series, The Graduates/Los Graduados emphasizes the need for education and how it can change the trajectory of a person's life. The show highlights success stories, including those of Latino students who have used their education to achieve great success. The show also emphasizes the importance of support from family, teachers, and mentors in achieving academic success.
The series is thought-provoking and emotional, giving insights into the challenges faced by Latino students in the education system. The narratives presented are authentic and relatable, especially for viewers who share similar experiences. The show does a great job of highlighting the unique challenges faced by Latino students, including cultural and societal pressures.
In conclusion, The Graduates/Los Graduados is a must-watch documentary series for anyone who cares about the education system and understands the importance of education as a tool toward social mobility. The show provides a unique perspective on the challenges faced by Latino students and the importance of support in achieving academic success. The series does not only contribute to the conversation about education but also celebrates Latino culture and the people's resilience.
The Graduates/Los Graduados is a series that ran for 1 seasons (2 episodes) between March 12, 2012 and on
