I watched MAKE A CIRCLE at SXSW EDU 2025, followed by an engaging Q&A that deepened the experience even more. The film is a powerful, emotional journey that doesn’t just spotlight early childhood educators — it uplifts them in a way that feels long overdue.
As a retired 30-year veteran of teaching high school seniors, I still hold a warm and deeply respectful place in my heart for Early Childhood teachers. They are the quiet architects of society, laying the foundation for everything that comes after. This documentary captures their work — both the everyday magic and the quiet heartbreak — with grace and honesty.
One of the things that struck me most was the overt passion of these teachers. Despite the low pay, lack of respect, and exhausting demands, they show up every day. Not just early educators, but all teachers know this feeling. That kind of dedication can’t be measured in a paycheck. It’s a calling, and MAKE A CIRCLE honors that truth beautifully.
The film also captures a powerful transformation, as these educators, many of whom never imagined themselves as activists, step up and take action. Watching them march on their State Capitol for their livelihoods and the children and families they serve was profoundly moving.
MAKE A CIRCLE isn’t just a documentary. It’s a love letter to the profession, a call to action, and a reminder that if we genuinely value our future, we must value those who help shape it. I left the theater feeling inspired, fired up, and more hopeful than I’ve felt in a long time, and it’s coming to public television this year.