Tom Hanks is one of the most beloved actors in Hollywood, known for his talent and versatility on screen. However, he’s also an advocate for alternative schooling and education. Here are 10 facts about Tom Hanks that highlight his passion for learning and teaching:
1. He struggled with traditional schooling: As a child, Hanks faced difficulties in school due to dyslexia, which made it hard for him to read and write.
2. He was inspired by a teacher: Despite his struggles, Hanks found inspiration in one of his high school teachers who encouraged him to pursue acting.
3. He dropped out of college: After studying theater at California State University Sacramento, Hanks left without graduating to focus on his acting career.
4. His son was homeschooled: When it came time for his son Colin to attend school, Tom and his wife Rita Wilson opted for homeschooling instead of traditional schooling.
5. He supports charter schools: In 2016, Hanks narrated a documentary called “Underwater Dreams” about four Latino students from Arizona who competed against renowned universities in a robotics competition after building their robot using low-cost materials they found at Home Depot.
6. He promotes STEM education: Alongside fellow Hollywood star Will.i.am., Hanks has been involved in the XQ Super School Project which aims to reimagine high schools across America by promoting STEM (Science Technology Engineering Math) education programs.
7. Education is important to him personally: In interviews, Tom has spoken openly about how much he values learning new things himself – both through reading books or taking online courses.
8. His production company focuses on documentaries: Through Playtone Productions – the production company he runs with Gary Goetzman –Hanks has helped produce several award-winning documentaries including “The War” and “John Adams.”
9. He’s written two books that encourage curiosity.: Both “Uncommon Type” (his 2017 short story collection) and his 2021 book “Finch” (about a man who builds an AI-powered robot to care for his dog after the apocalypse) are centered around characters who are curious about the world around them.
10. He’s advocated for access to education: In 2019, Hanks was awarded with an Honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts from Wesleyan University, where he used his speech to encourage graduates to use their education as a way to make the world a better place.
In conclusion, Tom Hanks has always valued alternative schooling and education options, whether that be through homeschooling or promoting STEM programs in traditional schools. Even outside of acting, he continues to advocate for learning and curiosity through his work in documentaries and writing.
Alternative Amie 
Leave a comment