Boxing the School-to-Prison Pipeline

Client: Neutral Ground

About the documentary: “We have to actively intervene…” Sam Lazalde, is the Director of Programs Neutral Ground, a restorative justice non-profit in Santa Ana, California. Sam runs a boxing a youth boxing program for risks kids in Santa Ana. Beyond boxing, his daily job is spent at schools advocating for at-risk kids who are on the brink of being suspended or expelled. 7 years ago, Sam’s position did not exist. Santa Ana along with many other school districts around the nation reexamined their punitive process with students.

The boxing program is critical in keeping adolescents occupied after-school and they currently are looking for funding to find a permanent training facility.

Role: Director, Cinematography, Editor