Stand and Deliver (1988)

Immersing us in the vibrant world of East Los Angeles, "Stand and Deliver" (1988) weaves an inspiring tale of Jaime Escalante, an unconventional math teacher at Garfield High School. Escalante, leaving a lucrative engineering job behind, steps into a campus teetering on the edge of decertification due to dismal academic outcomes. Boldly challenging the low expectations that have become intertwined with the school's identity, Escalante instills a philosophy that students will rise to meet the bar that's set for them. His teaching methods, as unconventional as his career switch, breathe life into the worn-out classrooms, sparking potential in gang members and students written off as hopeless. His relentless drive, coupled with his passion for teaching, propels him to teach calculus, pushing his students beyond their limits. His ambition is not without consequence; his unwavering dedication leads him to suffer a mild heart attack. However, his tenacity and belief in what his students can achieve remain undeterred. Fostering a collaborative atmosphere, Escalante works not just with the students, but also their parents, most of whom have dismissed education as a futile endeavor. His efforts culminate in a remarkable victory when 18 of his students triumphantly pass the rigorous Advanced Placement calculus exam, earning them college credits. However, their success is marred by suspicion from the Educational Testing Service, casting a shadow of doubt on their accomplishment with accusations of cheating. This crisis leads to a moment of truth as the students retake the exam, scoring high marks once more. In this triumphant conclusion, both Escalante and his students are vindicated, their integrity restored and their marks reinstated, standing as a testament to their resilience and the transformative power of high expectations. "Stand and Deliver" is a compelling biopic that showcases the extraordinary journey of a teacher who dared to believe in the potential of his students, leading them to defy societal expectations and achieve academic excellence.

Stand and Deliver is a drama movie featuring Edward James Olmos and directed by Ramón Menéndez.

Stand and Deliver is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on The Roku Channel and Tubi TV and it's also available on Paramount Plus Apple TV Channel .

It is also possible to buy Stand and Deliver on AMC on Demand, Amazon Video, Apple TV, DIRECTV, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, Vudu and YouTube.