"The Prep School Negro" at Eaglebrook

The Eaglebrook School faculty had the pleasure of hosting Andre Robert Lee, writer and director of the acclaimed documentary “The Prep School Negro” last week during faculty meetings. Mr. Lee presented his film to the group, and then hosted a Q & A session after the viewing.

Although he interviewed a handful of African American students currently attending prep schools across the country, the story ultimately focused on Mr. Lee, his family, and their experiences with the world Mr. Lee became a part of once he began attending Germantown Friends, a private school located in Philadelphia. Watch Mr. Lee explain how he chose the title of the film.

During the very moving story, Lee showed how hard it was for him to transition from a lower middle class world to one completely different. He was asked during the Q & A session whether or not it made him uncomfortable to have exposed so much of his private life in the film. Watch his response. Mr. Lee also spoke about the obligation educators have to make sure all students in their classrooms feel good about themselves and their experiences. He said, "It is our job as educators to do allw e can to make sure no one feels uncomfortable in the classroom." He continued, saying "Help kids feel like it is their place, too. Surround them with love and encouragement, and the rest will happen." It was valuable to have Mr. Lee come to campus, and the hope is that he will be back to share his story with the students. Watch a final clip of Mr. Lee speaking about his hopes for what the film can do for students all over the country.