EDUCATION
With 25 years of expertise in film production, we proudly offer three distinct types of educational programming that center around our unique approach to community-based documentary storytelling. By uplifting cultural artists and activists featured in our films, we engage students of all kinds of backgrounds and experiences, teaching them to harness their own storytelling power.
community screenings + discussions
For students and professionals at universities, colleges, high schools and non-profit organizations.
We provide educational screenings, catered curriculum, discussions, and/or workshops that use our film projects as the basis for engaging students in the art of storytelling. By showcasing captivating films that spark creativity and dialogue in the classroom and pairing them with hands-on opportunities for learning and practice, we empower students and educators across a wide spectrum of age and experience.
FEATURED PROJECT: Latitude Alternative High School (Dec 2023)
Working with students ages [12-15], we conducted an on-site event at the Malonga Center in downtown Oakland complete with a film screening of “Alice Street,” building tour, and dance workshop.
“I went to this super cool event at Latitude Alternative High School at the Malonga Center, and it was awesome! I was nervous when I first came in, but the movie and dancing made me feel free! We got to express our culture and learn new things.”
- Student, 14
documentary filmmaking workshops
For people of any age/identity/experience interested in learning how to tell stories through film
Our hands-on workshops teach everything needed to create a documentary film from start to finish, covering steps from pre-production to production and post-production. Students gain proficiency in both technical skills (like cinematography, lighting, and editing) as well as storytelling/communication skills (like screenwriting, organization, and gathering community input). Workshops can vary in length from a single intensive through a semester-long course.
FEATURED WORKSHOP: “Just Free” Documentary (2024-2025)
We worked with young adults through the Larkin Street Youth Service's Art Program (in collaboration with Felton Institute and the Young Adult Court) to co-create a documentary short, sharing their personal stories of impact by the justice system.
““Participating in the Just Free workshop really changed how I see myself and my story. At first, I didn’t know how to share what I’ve been through, but through the filmmaking process, I was able to speak my truth and show people what it’s really like for youth like me.”
- Student, 20
SEMINARS: FILMMAKING FOR SOCIAL IMPACT
For filmmakers interested in learning from our unique community-based filmmaking model
Our unique approach to the craft sets us apart as industry leaders, and we’re eager to share what we’ve learned in over two decades of collaborative filmmaking. In this [two-hour seminar], we share visual-based case studies of successful impact campaigns along with how-to guidance for those interested in creating film projects that actively involve those whose stories are being told, empowering communities to voice their own narratives.
FEATURED SEMINAR: “Film Impact Strategy” at Bravemaker Film Festival (July 2024)
This seminar shared our knowledge of independent film distribution, impact campaign strategy, and how to utilize grant funding for creating community minded events. We also shared insights from our "Alice Street" Impact Tour—a nationwide series of screenings and talk-backs organized through grant funding.
“Attending the 'Film Impact Strategy' seminar with Endangered Ideas was a game-changer for me. As an independent filmmaker, Spencer’s insights on crafting a strategic approach to reaching audiences and creating real-world change gave me the tools to take my films beyond the screen.”
- Jordan, Independent Filmmaker
Looking for another kind of educational programming?