Educational Outreach Program

“Great storytelling is the oldest of all arts, the glue that holds together our culture and ourselves.”

Robin Beeck, Executive Director,
Boulder International Film Festival

Mission

To use film as a visual form for great storytelling — an effective way to open student eyes to the world outside their communities, and help them gain an understanding of critical issues facing our society. Additionally, to use film like literature to develop critical analysis skills and to reach a non-traveling student population with information on other cultures and societies. Finally, to encourage students to see film as an important avenue of expression, in addition to a potential career path.

Programs and Activities

Boulder International Film Festival

Free tickets for students to films, panels, workshops • Students meet filmmakers • Free Screenwriting Seminar • Student Volunteer Program • “Best New Filmmaker” Award • “Best Student Film” Award

World Cinema Days

The goal is to keep students meaningfully engaged during unstructured days off such as teacher “professional development” or “in-service days.” And to help parents arrange activities for their child on these non-school days. Features a free film program, presentations and group discussion for students grade 4 through 12.

Youth Advisory Board

BIFF has formed a Youth Advisory Board consisting of 12-15 students that will assist in the selection and promotion of films for middle and senior high school age youth for the Boulder International Film Festival, as well as World Cinema Days throughout the year.

Visual Literacy Library

Grants teachers and community groups access to BIFF films that can be integrated into various curriculums and film programs.

Film Screenings for Teens

BIFF films for teen groups at the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art (BMOCA).

Free Film Program

BIFF presents Great Films, Free! The BIFF International Spotlight at the Boulder Public Library Film Program in September, October, and November of 2008. The Spotlight includes ten “Best of the Fest” films and is free to students and the public.