The mission of EPIC - Every Person Influences Children is to help families, schools, and communities raise children to become responsible and capable adults.  EPIC tirelessly works toward reaching our mission by engaging school administrators, teachers, and parents across New York State through our eight regional PIRC offices (Parental Information and Resource Centers).  EPIC is dedicated to assisting families in creating successful partnerships with their schools, as well as engaging the community in school activities, with the ultimate goal of increasing student achievement. 

"Waiting for Superman" is the most recent documentary directed by David Guggenheim and is currently out in theaters. The film features some of the challenges facing families and schools in working to create academically successful students. The film's portrayal of a few selected families affected by struggling school districts is effective at evoking a wide range of strong emotions among audiences from all walks of life.

As successful as the film is in bringing attention to key issues facing our educational system, we must recognize that the film shines a very narrow spotlight on only a select number of issues in a very complex educational system.  It is important to acknowledge that these problems were not caused by a single group nor will they be fixed by a single group.

If we, as a nation, are to develop a comprehensive plan to raise student achievement, everyone must come to the table together in the best interest of our children.

Sincerely,

The Staff of EPIC - Every Person Influences Children