Top 10 Documentaries About Schools

Description: Set in a Parisian school, this film captures the daily life of a teacher and his diverse class of students. It's a raw and authentic portrayal of the challenges and rewards of teaching in an urban environment, offering a microcosm of society within the classroom.

Fact: The film is based on the autobiographical novel by François Bégaudeau, who also stars as the teacher. It won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival.

Description: This documentary takes a hard look at the American public education system, focusing on the lottery system for charter schools and the impact of educational reform. It's a poignant exploration of the hopes and dreams of students and parents in the face of systemic challenges.

Fact: The title refers to the idea that parents are waiting for a 'superman' to save the education system. The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.

Description: This documentary focuses on the lottery system used by Harlem Success Academy, a charter school, to select its students, highlighting the intense competition for quality education in underserved communities.

Fact: The film sparked a national conversation about educational equity and the role of charter schools.

Description: This film delves into the lives of four teachers, exploring the realities of the teaching profession in America, including the financial struggles, the passion for teaching, and the impact of policy on educators.

Fact: The film was inspired by the book "Teachers Have It Easy: The Big Sacrifices and Small Salaries of America's Teachers" by Dave Eggers and Daniel Moulthrop.

Description: Set in a prestigious Irish boarding school, this film offers an intimate look at the lives of two teachers who have dedicated their careers to shaping young minds, capturing the essence of a bygone era of education.

Fact: The film was shot over a year, providing a detailed and nuanced portrayal of the school's daily life.

Description: This documentary series follows a principal at a troubled school in New Zealand, showcasing his efforts to transform the school culture and improve student outcomes through innovative leadership.

Fact: The series was produced by the same team behind the acclaimed documentary "Once Were Warriors."

Description: This documentary follows eight young contestants as they prepare for the National Spelling Bee, showcasing the dedication, pressure, and personal stories behind their quest for spelling glory. It's a heartwarming look at ambition and the American dream.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. It was also the first documentary to be released in over 1,000 theaters.

Description: Following a teenage activist in Lubbock, Texas, this documentary shows her fight for comprehensive sex education in schools, highlighting the intersection of religion, politics, and education.

Fact: Shelby Knox later became a prominent advocate for sex education and women's rights, continuing her activism beyond the film.

Description: This film follows the chess team from Intermediate School 318 in Brooklyn, New York, as they strive for national championships, showcasing the power of chess in education and personal development.

Fact: The school's chess team has won more national championships than any other in the country.

Description: This documentary explores the British education system through the eyes of a head teacher at a struggling school in London, offering insights into the challenges of educational reform and the impact of policy changes.

Fact: The film was directed by the same filmmaker who made "The Great Hip Hop Hoax."