About
About the project
The film
The ADAPT Narrative: Southeastern follows two Detroit high school seniors through the 2024–2025 school year, highlighting their perseverance and the families, educators, and community partners who support them. Through their journeys, the film challenges harmful narratives and celebrates the genius, growth, and achievement of Detroit’s young people and communities.
The meaning of ADAPT
Awareness, Development, Achievement, Pride, and Triumph.
Why stories matter
The stories we hear about young people and their communities shape what we expect of them. This film centers students, families, and educators telling their own stories—making strengths, relationships, and achievement visible.
Using the film for professional learning
Explore how stories shape expectations, how relationships support achievement, and how educators can build on students’ cultural identities, lived experiences, and community strengths. Watch the full film or explore 12 guided chapters, then develop an action plan for your own practice.



Filmmaker & contributor credits
- Director
- Jonathan Jewell-Chatten
- Producer
- Quan Neloms
Screenings & inquiries
Contact & Book a Screening for screenings, professional learning, and partnerships.