David Donnenfield; Kevin White/2010/36 min/Family
A Simple Question looks at a remarkable program that brings together school children and their teachers with community groups and agencies to undertake habitat restoration on privately-owned ranch land. It all started more than 16 years ago when Laurette Rogers, a fourth grade teacher, showed a film on endangered species to her class. Stricken by the weight of species extinction, one student plaintively asked what he and his class mates could do to save endangered species. That simple question, innocent yet profound, ignited something in Laurette that launched her and her class on an inspired voyage of discovery and transformation.
Two of the kids from the original “Shrimp Club,” John Elliott and Lucia Comnes, return to Paul’s ranch, marveling at theirs and their classmates’ handiwork. They’re amazed at how their efforts have so dramatically transformed the barren landscape. And, as we listen to them, it’s clear how the experience sixteen years ago transformed them — into articulate, passionate, capable citizens committed to making the world a better place.
Nomination, Northern California Emmy Awards; Spirit of Activism Award, Wild & Scenic Environmental Film Festival; Best Educational Documentary, Mammoth Mountain Film Festival; Best Educational Value in the Classroom, andConservation Hero of the Festival, Laurette Rogers, International Wildlife Film Festival;
Best Short Film, Reel Earth Environmental Film Festival, New Zealand