Docs For Schools
Docs For Schools reached 83,360 students throughout the year, providing educators with free access to curated documentary selections that introduce vital ideas, critical questions and new perspectives on topics spanning the curriculum.
During Hot Docs Festival and throughout the school year, the acclaimed Docs For Schools program engaged over 83,360 students from 529 schools across Canada. By showcasing impactful documentaries, the program addressed urgent issues, stimulated critical thinking and introduced fresh viewpoints.
The annual Docs For Schools Teachers Conference brought together 249 educators from Ontario and beyond, exploring exciting new ways to use documentary films to inspire learning.
Docs For Schools provides free film screenings in classrooms and at Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema in Toronto. Each documentary is paired with tailored educational materials that integrate with various curriculum subjects, enhancing the overall learning experience. Additionally, in-cinema screenings frequently feature engaging Q&As with renowned filmmakers and riveting documentary subjects, along with guest speakers from esteemed organizations such as Human Rights Watch Canada, the Canada Space Agency, The Downie Wenjack Fund and The Jane Goodall Institute of Canada.
During Hot Docs Festival, Docs For Schools offered in-cinema screenings of nine 2024 official selections, and in-school screenings of eight documentaries.
83,360 students
from 71 participating school boards
52 films
with 28 custom education packages available
249 teacher conference attendees
from 14 school boards
Docs For Schools is generously supported by lead partner Rogers, founding partner Scotiabank, The Slaight Family Foundation, The Rossy Foundation, and TVO Media Education Group. Additional support is provided by MakeWay Foundation - Harbinger Fund at MakeWay, Donner Canadian Foundation, Pitblado Family Foundation, and through contributions by individual donors.