A perfect introduction for students, young political aspirants and future voters learning about the American Political system, this program tells the story of middle school teacher Dean Greco and his run for Congress. As an independent candidate, Dean soon learns that the odds are stacked against him. Determined to understand why independent and third-party candidates have a difficult time collecting votes, Dean and his campaign manager tour America to find out. Along the way they develop conversations with the general voting public, other candidates, strategists and political scientists on how the system can allow better access for all challengers. On their journey they discover some of the challenges facing third party/independent candidates, how to participate in the American political system (besides running for office), the foundations of the American political system, civic life, politics, government and the roles of citizens in American Democracy. It emphasizes the rights and responsibilities of civic participation and government to help students acquire the skills and knowledge they need to become active and informed community members. Students will learn about: * The foundations of the American Political system * Requirements to run for the House of Representatives * The role of citizens in American Democracy * Political Parties * Polling * Ballot Access

_

"Third-party and independent candidates would be well-advised to make the screening of this professional, engrossing and entertaining documentary a staple of their campaigns...an excellent film." -Green Horizon, International Journal of Green Horizon Foundation. "Enlightening... I especially want every Green party member to see it." -Steve Welzer, Green Party Gubernatorial Candidate, NJ. "Funny, engaging."-Ballot Access News. "Every high school student in the country should see this."- Eric Dasher, Edutainer. Featured at the 2015 National Green Party Convention, St. Louis, MO. "This introduction to the political system tells the story of New Jersey sixth grade social studies teacher Dean Greco who ran as an independent candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives. In a straightforward yet sometimes humorous manner, Greco explains the various procedures and necessary requirements to get one's name on the ballot, talks about campaigning, and explains what happened after his defeat. The film includes reenactments, campaign footage, and interviews with political scientists, other third party candidates, family, and friends, as Greco and his campaign manager travel across the country to try and learn more about the political process, including why independent candidates are at a disadvantage in vote getting. Divided into topics (requirements, platforms, fundraising, and more) that are introduced by vintage black-and-white clips and containing some civics lessons, this is a good choice for students." -Debra McLeo, Booklist Online

_