This documentary was made in 2010 and directed by Madeleine Sackler. The title of this film makes it sound like it is about winning money, but it is actually about something more precious and that is education. This film follows four families living in various areas of New York. During this time the families are trying to get their kids into the Harlem Success Academy. This would get their kids out of the below standard public schools they are currently in and into a school that can benefit them. The premise of the film is to expose and research the education system and the way it works. This film also concentrates on the teachers’ union and the contest between public school and charter schools for building space. This film expresses heated debates and shows the individual struggles of families as they fight to give their kids a better education. Below is the trailer for The Lottery.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Khlm4fa-_cE

I recommend watching this film for several reasons. This will educate individuals about this lottery that kids participate in as well as showing the individual struggles of families as they go through this process. Also this film will make anyone that is currently fortunate enough to have to the opportunity to be educated to appreciate their education more than they maybe already do. This film made me appreciate my education and all of the opportunities that have been presented to me. The Lottery opens our eyes to how the education system works and that it would be beneficial to all for a change. The change is coming, but there are still many children that do not have an equal opportunity that other children have.