NVFF’s Education + Outreach Programs are dedicated to sharing the power of cinematic storytelling with the next generation of creative minds. During the film festival, we reach over 3,500 students through integrated film programs that inspire curiosity, spark conversation, and foster critical thinking.
FILMS TO WATCH WITH YOUR KIDS
Looking for informative, engaging, and inspirational content to watch at home? We hope that this curated selection of films can be a way to spark conversation and creativity amongst you and your loved ones.
All of these films have been previously shown to students as a part of our educational initiative.
Featured Programs
Filmmakers in the Schools
Educators are offered a special selection of festival films to screen in the classroom. Filmmakers and film subjects then visit students to engage in intimate conversations that bring the curriculum to life.
Community Screenings
NVFF hosts and sponsors year-round film screenings for students, parents, and educators throughout the Napa Valley. These films seek to generate thought-provoking discussions across our diverse audiences.
Teen Press
Teen Press develops students’ research, listening, and interviewing skills. During NVFF, two teams of teen journalists interview celebrities, filmmakers, and notable guests on and off the red carpet.
Inspire Field Trip
During the film festival, 1,200 middle and high school students from around the Napa Valley gather at the Lincoln Theater to watch documentary films and participate in extended Q+As with the filmmakers and subjects of each story.
What Teachers Are Saying
“As someone who has spent much of the last twenty years working to empower young people, to be able to bring this film to so many curious, smart, motivated teens was a thrill. If you were able to catch some of the Q+A sessions, you probably [would have] heard some of the insightful questions, brave comments, and pledges to work for change in the future. These screenings left a powerful mark on both our team and these wonderful young people.”
Ryan Gielen, Director/Producer, My Beautiful Stutter
“Being a part of the Napa Valley Film Festival reminded me [of] the power of the moving picture to inspire real change. The film programs for students allowed them to not only watch powerful documentaries, but also interact with the filmmakers about their process, challenges, and motivation in bringing a personal story to the big screen.”
Bob Pflugfelder AKA “Science Bob”
“Thank you for making efforts to ensure that an artistic event that benefits Napa’s cultural centers also gets in front of our kids. The teachers and students who screened a festival film, and then met the filmmaker, were glowing from the experience. They loved it!”
Kelley Miller, Middle School Academic Specialist, Redwood and Silverado Middle Schools
“Thank you for your continued support. Our staff truly appreciates the opportunity to bring community events to a group of students that do not have the means or often way to be active participants. Thank you and we look forward to next year.”
Maria Cisneros, Principal, Valley Oak High School
