In one class those who participated were asked to indicate. A sea of hands shot up in the air and remained proudly raised for the whole time we were in the room. Niewrzedra said that many of the parents are unemployed and the children are often sent to school without food. If that happens, or if the family has no money for clothes, then other parents bring extra, she said. She explained some of the difficulties facing teachers.
Today there are so many problems with the families.
Many don't have work, the parents have conflicts and sometimes the children don't have any money or food and there is no discipline in the home. The teachers are very conscious of these problems and although this exerts a huge pressure on us there is now a real awareness that we cannot blame the individuals. The parents are more involved in the school and there is more solidarity. The effect of Tavernier's film on the community has been significant and readily acknowledged by all those I met. Lefebvre's artist girlfriend, to overcome the tragedy, anguish and despair in the community, so the film itself has helped to invigorate and raise the cultural life and spirit of the community.