West Chester University (WCU) will release The Hands That Shape Tomorrow, a new documentary co-executive produced by two WCU faculty members: Professor of English Laquana Cooke and Associate Professor of Digital/Global Media Jeremy C. McCool. The Hands That Shape Tomorrow offers a powerful, intimate look at how guaranteed income initiatives can transform the lives of early childhood educators.
Directed by Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Kyra Knox (Bad Things Happen in Philadelphia, executive produced by Allen Iverson), the documentary follows early childhood educators participating in an 18-month guaranteed income program. Through candid interviews and personal stories, the film examines how financial stability affects those who nurture our youngest children — both inside and outside the classroom — and reveals the ripple effects of economic security on their families, schools, and entire communities.
Cooke is also the Program Director of West Chester University’s iCamp, a free week-long camp for high school students from Philadelphia that provides immersive experiences in digital media and promotes self-expression and social justice. McCool is one of the camp’s faculty experts.
“This film allows audiences to witness the real-world consequences of financial insecurity among educators — and what becomes possible when that burden is lifted,” said Cooke and McCool. “By centering the voices of early childhood educators, we hope to spark meaningful conversation about how investing in those who care for our youngest learners ultimately benefits us all.”
The Hands That Shape Tomorrow will debut in a series of screenings beginning in mid-February, bringing together legislators, educators, nonprofit leaders, and community stakeholders. Several screenings will take place in locations close to West Chester, offering the regional community a unique opportunity to engage with the film and its themes.
Upcoming Screenings
Date and Time: Wednesday, Feb. 18, at 4:30 PM
Location: Regal Downingtown, 100 Quarry Rd., Downingtown
Find the registration link here.
Date and Time: Wednesday, Mar. 4, at 4:30 PM
Location: Uptown Knauer Performing Arts Center, 226 N. High St., West Chester
Find the registration link here.
Date and Time: Monday, Mar. 23, at 4:30 PM
Location: Philadelphia Film Center, 1412 Chestnut St., Philadelphia
Find the registration link here.
About ‘The Hands That Shape Tomorrow‘
The Hands That Shape Tomorrow is an intimate documentary that follows early childhood educators as they navigate the profound impact of financial security on their lives, families, and communities while participating in a guaranteed income initiative. Through candid interviews and personal stories, the film explores what happens when we invest in those who nurture our youngest children — and how that investment reshapes entire communities.
- Directed by: Kyra Knox
- Co-Executive Producers: Laquana Cooke and Jeremy C. McCool
- Funded by: Vanguard Strong Start for Kids
- Supported by: People’s Media Fund
- Produced by: Conor Hare and JTWO Production
Learn more at WCU. Located in West Chester, WCU is a hub of academic diversity and vibrant student life. The university’s commitment to student success is emphasized by Lorraine “Laurie” Bernotsky, who replaced Chris Fiorentino as President of West Chester University on Jul. 1, 2024.
