In this powerful episode of Everything But The Lesson Plan, host Franchesca Thompson sits down with director Emil Gallardo, the visionary behind the award-winning short film 1, 2, 3, All Eyes on Me.

Set in an elementary school classroom during a lockdown, the film captures a teacher’s worst nightmare—and the quiet heroism it takes to lead through fear.

Together, Franchesca and Emil explore:
🔸 The inspiration behind the film and the real-life stories that shaped it
🔸 The emotional and psychological toll crisis events take on teachers
🔸 What schools, communities, and policymakers can do to better protect students and support educators
🔸 Why storytelling like this is essential in driving empathy and action

This is more than a conversation—it’s a moment of truth.
A reminder that behind every lesson plan is a human heart doing its best to shield, protect, and love.

🎧 Tune in for a powerful dialogue that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

#EverythingButTheLessonPlan #SchoolSafety #TeacherVoices #EmilGallardo #123AllEyesOnMe #EducatorsMatter #StudentWellbeing #PodcastWithPurpose

About Emil Gallardo

Emil Gallardo is an Oscar-qualifying Mexican-American writer/director from Los Angeles. He's an HBO Directing Fellow, a 2023 CDDP finalist, and the winner of Panavision's Future Filmmaker award. He has been recognized for his ability to tell evocative stories that stand out for their authenticity and willingness to confront uncomfortable truths.

Emil’s first short, 1, 2, 3, ALL EYES ON ME resonated with audiences and festival juries alike, winning the Grand Prix Best Film award at HollyShorts, a Jury Award at the Austin Film Festival, Best Short at the NY Latino Film Festival and qualifying for the Academy Awards.

Social Media: IG: emilg80 / waterlightfilms

About Franchesca Thompson

Welcome to the "Everything But the Lesson Plan" a podcast brought to you by Thrive12, an education company designed to ensure you thrive every month of the year. I am an educator, entrepreneur, and influencer on a mission to transform education with innovative tools, tips, and resources for educators everywhere!

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