Teaching Tools Featured

Connection to ourselves and our communities are at the heart of these family films. Join us as we wonder: What makes us unique? How are we defined in our own lives and to others? Peeling back the layers of ourselves and our surroundings can let us know how things work and what is important. These family films will inspire you to look beyond the surface to find elements of love, wonder, and support in an ever changing world.

During the 2019-2020 school year, Oakland High School seniors protect their community and thrive at all costs in Peter Nicks’ Homeroom to rid their schools of punitive practices and law enforcement. Through their activism, we see just how arduous the struggle is for local social justice. A screening of this film may complement a curriculum in History and Social Studies.

Lily Hevesh – the world’s most acclaimed domino toppler and the only girl
in her field – rises as an artist, role model, and young woman in this documentary. Taught in conjunction with this guide, the film will encourage students to learn about domino art and how it connects to STEAM topics, while also developing their social emotional skills, and broadening their understanding of career and college planning.

Alexis is a 15 year old talented and proud student of the National Ballet School of Cuba. He spends his life practicing chassé and entrechats with his girlfriend and dance partner Yelenia. However, when his parents move to Florida to be reunited with his sister, his happy teenage world is turned upside down. Homesick for his native Cuba and facing the difficulties of assimilation, Alexis must navigate adolescence and immigration as he reaffirms love for ballet and identity as a Cuban in this documentary. Taught in conjunction with this guide, the film will encourage students to learn about Cuban culture and dance, while also developing their social emotional skills

Join a team of kids, the Ghost Club, as they help explore the community and share past stories and current events together through the neighborhoods of Los Angeles. This guide is intended to flexibly support educators and families alike with creative hands-on activities to share with students.