In a New York Times Op-Ed, Tom Moore, a 10th-grade history teacher in the Bronx, responds insightfully to recent cinematic images of teaching — specifically teaching in underprivileged schools. Ultimately, he sees most films as missing the pedagogical point:

The great misconception of these films is not that actual schools are more chaotic and decrepit — many schools in poor neighborhoods are clean and orderly yet still don’t have enough teachers or money for supplies. No, the most dangerous message such films promote is that what schools really need are heroes. This is the Myth of the Great Teacher.

Films like ‘Freedom Writers‘ portray teachers more as missionaries than professionals, eager to give up their lives and comfort for the benefit of others, without need of compensation. Ms. Gruwell sacrifices money, time and even her marriage for her job.

Moore notes an exception — The Wire — which we would as well. But his point is well-taken: dedicated teachers are great, but without resources and reinforcement, they are fighting a futile fight. And when films and television shows glorify the individual teachers, they are actually participating in a reactionary ideology, which insists that money and community support don’t matter.

And the letters to the editor in response to Moore’s piece make it clear he has struck a chord.

Plus: Speaking of cinematic misrepresentations of work, find out how recent films are also making employment at fashion magazines a lot more interesting (and relevant) than it actually is.