Education Law – Showing Movies in School: What’s Allowed?

Ever wondered if you can play a film in class without breaking the law? It’s a common question for teachers, librarians, and students alike. The short answer is: yes, you can, but only if you follow a few simple rules. Let’s break down what “fair use” means, when a license is needed, and how to stay on the right side of copyright.

What is Fair Use in a School Setting?

Fair use is a clause in copyright law that lets you use short clips or whole works for educational purposes. The key is that the use can’t be for profit and must serve a teaching goal. If you’re showing a movie to illustrate a literary theme, a historical event, or a technical concept, you’re usually covered. Keep the viewing limited to the class and avoid charging admission – that’s the sweet spot for fair use.

When Do You Need a Public Performance License?

Not every school screening falls under fair use. If the film is shown as entertainment, during a fundraiser, or to a broader audience like a whole school assembly, you’ll need a public performance license. This license is a simple agreement with the copyright holder that lets you legally show the entire movie. Many film distributors offer school‑specific licenses at a low cost.

So how do you know which side you’re on? Ask yourself three quick questions: Is the showing part of a lesson plan? Is the audience limited to enrolled students? Is there no charge for entry? If you answer “yes” to all three, fair use likely applies. If you’re unsure, it’s safer to get a license.

Another tip: keep a record of why you chose the movie and how it supports your curriculum. A short note in your lesson plan can be useful if anyone asks for proof of educational purpose. This documentation can protect you if the school ever faces a copyright claim.

Many schools partner with services like Swank Motion Pictures or FilmRise, which provide pre‑cleared titles for classroom use. These services handle the licensing, so you simply log in and stream the approved content. It’s a hassle‑free way to stay legal and give students access to quality films.

Don’t forget state or local regulations. Some regions have specific rules about public performances in schools, especially for copyrighted music or movies. A quick check with your school’s legal office or a simple online search can save a lot of headaches later.

If you need a license fast, start by identifying the film’s distributor – often listed in the movie’s credits or on the studio’s website. Contact them directly or use an online licensing portal. Most providers issue a short‑term license within a day, and the cost is usually a few dollars per student.

In practice, most teachers find that using a short clip (under 10 minutes) for analysis works best. It keeps the class focused and stays comfortably within fair use. If you need the whole movie, consider a scheduled “movie night” where parents buy tickets – that’s a clear case for a license.

Bottom line: you can show movies in school, but you must respect the creator’s rights. Use fair use for direct educational purposes, get a license for broader showings, and always document your reasons. By following these steps, you’ll keep the classroom creative and legal.