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THE ADAPT NARRATIVE

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.

A film crew records an interview in a high-rise studio overlooking Detroit.
A student is interviewed on set surrounded by cameras and tripods.Two members of the project team smile together outdoors.

Filmmaker & contributor credits

Director
Jonathan Jewell-Chatten
Producer
Quan Neloms

Screenings & inquiries

Contact & Book a Screening for screenings, professional learning, and partnerships.