Race to Nowhere Screening at Centreville High

The film that has sparked a national debate on the link between stress-induced illnesses and the educational system is coming to on Wednesday. 

Race to Nowhere argues that there is a growing connection between depression, burnout, , stress-related illnesses and the high-stakes achievement culture promoted in the college admissions process and by parents. The film features students from around the country who have been pushed too far and burnt-out educators who say kids aren't prepared to succeed in the real world, according to the website. 

The film is rated PG-13 andAfterwards there will be a panel discussion. Panelists will include:

• Patrick Mazur, assistant director of admissions, George Mason University
• Libby Vick, CVHS parent and NOVA Community College faculty member
• Amy Balint, CVHS parent and faculty member
• Michele Tureaud, FCPS Behavior Intervention Services
• Linda Mehaffey, CVHS parent and counselor
• A Centreville High School senior

Race to Nowhere has been booked at over 700 locations nationwide and many schools throughout the county over the past several months. Director Vicki Abeles, a first-time filmmaker, came up with the idea for the documentary after her own 12-year-old daughter was diagnosed with a stress-induced illness. 

“As a mother, I experienced the stress firsthand and realized that no one was talking about it,” said Abeles. “I saw kids who were anxious, depressed, physically ill, checking out, abusing drugs and, worst case, attempting suicide. I felt compelled to speak out about this crisis by making a film and giving a voice to the students, teachers, and parents.

"I wanted to expose a deeper truth about our education system," said Abeles. "We are graduating a generation of robo-students, unable to think and work independently, creatively and collaboratively.”

Tickets for the screening are $10 online and $15 at the door, if seats are available. Advance tickets can be purchased by clicking here. For more information, contact CVHS PTSA President Debbie Kilpatrick at president@cvhsptsa.org.