What Matters
	When Bob Blue was in second grade, most of his friends wanted to become cowboys. He dreamed of being a second grade teacher. For 25 years, Bob Blue has brought a love of teaching and a deep empathy for children to his work. He also brings his rich talent as a songwriter. Respect for children's feelings and a passion for social justice are hallmarks of his songs. As Pete Seeger says in an interview on this video, "Bob's songs help to teach kids that they are not powerless"    This 45-minute documentary explores how Bob Blue has used music in his classroom to teach specific lessons in the curriculum while also helping to build community. "What Matters" features footage from a 1997 concert in Amherst, Mass. where musicians from all over the country came together to showcase his songs. The documentary also includes archival footage of Bob Blue's performances in the Boston area and of several children's musicals he wrote and directed.
Multiple sclerosis forced Bob to retire after 20 years as an elementary school teacher in Wellesley, Mass. He continued his work with children by "adopting" a kindergarten class in Amherst, where he now lives. Since 1994, he has followed the children up through the grades, volunteering in their classroom nearly every day. Bob Blue also is the founder and active member of the Children's Music Network, an international organization of teachers, musicians, parents and young people. In the documentary, Bob Blue talks candidly about the way that M.S. has changed his life. Teachers and parents can learn much from this gentle man about working with children and facing adversity. People of all ages can appreciate his funny and moving songs. "Maybe the best thing," says Pete Seeger, "is just let a lot more people hear more of his songs."