Educators, public gather for ‘Paper Tigers’ documentary screening

Camas — More than 170 people attended a free screening of the documentary “Paper Tigers” on March 16 by the Association of Washington School Principals and Liberty Theatre.

An audience of Washougal and Camas educators, and community members watched the documentary, which highlights the lives of selected students at Lincoln High School, an alternative school in Walla Walla that specializes in educating traumatized youth.

Prior to the screening, Canyon Creek Middle School Principal Sandi Christensen, Unite! Washougal Community Coalition coordinator Margaret McCarthy and Hathaway Elementary School social worker Jenna Linerud introduced the documentary and briefly shared about the trauma-informed work happening in the community.

Linerud, who has been working to increase knowledge on trauma and adverse childhood experiences in Washougal schools, said she hoped the film was a learning experience for those who attended.

“My hope is that attendees left the screening with a sense of inquiry, considering all the ways we can be protective factors for the youth we come in contact with in our community,” said Linerud. “Now that we have the science that tells us how toxic stress impacts learning and strategies to promote resilience, we have an opportunity and an obligation to change.”