Go-To Movies for the Classroom

During the school year, there are occasions when showing a movie is the best option, whether as a reward, time filler, or to complement a lesson. However, it can be challenging to recall movies that are appropriate for a school setting, yet engaging for middle and high school students. To help, here is a compiled list of go-to movies with various themes, including sports, school life, inspiration, and fantasy. Each movie is relatable to different student demographics and interests. You can even narrow down choices and conduct a class vote. Each movie listing includes its rating and where to find it. 

PG

October Sky

The true story of Homer Hickam, a coal miner’s son who was inspired by the first Sputnik launch to take up rocketry.

(1999) Rating: PG

WATCH: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, AMC on Demand, Youtube

McFarland, USA

The inspiring true story of a high school cross-country team in a small California town that overcomes numerous challenges to achieve success.

(2015) Rating: PG

WATCH: Disney +, Apple TV 

The Princess Bride

A fantasy adventure that mixes romance, comedy, and action, making it a fun and engaging watch.

(1987) Rating: PG

WATCH: Disney +, Amazon Prime, Youtube

Remember the Titans

A sports drama based on the true story of a newly integrated high school football team in the 1970s.

(2000) Rating: PG

WATCH: Disney +, Apple TV, Google Play, Amazon Prime

The Goonies

An adventure film about a group of kids who discover an old pirate map and go on a treasure hunt to save their homes from foreclosure.

(1985) Rating: PG

WATCH: HBO Max

Matilda

A story about a young girl with extraordinary powers who overcomes adversity and finds happiness.

(1996) Rating: PG

WATCH: Netflix

The Karate Kid

A classic tale of a young boy who learns karate to defend himself and gain confidence.

(1984) Rating: PG

WATCH: Hulu, Starz, FXNow, Roku, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Youtube

Holes

Based on the popular novel, this film follows a young boy sent to a camp where he and other boys are forced to dig holes as a form of punishment.

(2003) Rating: PG

WATCH: Disney +, Apple TV, Amazon Video, Youtube

Percy Jackson & The Olympics

A fantasy adventure where a teenager discovers he is the son of Poseidon and embarks on a quest to prevent a war among the gods.

(2010) Rating: PG

WATCH: Disney +, Apple TV, Amazon Video, Youtube

The Mighty Ducks

A beloved sports comedy that follows a successful and arrogant lawyer who is takes on the role of coaching a youth hockey team.

(1992) Rating: PG

WATCH: Disney +, Apple TV, Amazon Video, Youtube, AMC on Demand

PG-13

School of Rock

A comedy about a substitute teacher who turns his class into a rock band, teaching them about music and teamwork.

(2003) Rating: PG-13

WATCH: Paramount +, Apple TV, Amazon Video, Youtube

Spare Parts

Based on a true story, this film follows a group a high school students from and underfunded school in Phoenix, AZ, who form a robotics team, led by their inspiring teacher. 

(2015) Rating: PG-13

WATCH: Freeze, Apple TV, Amazon Video, Youtube, AMC on Demand

Pay it Forward

A drama about a young boy who starts a movement of kindness and generosity through his school project.

(2000) Rating: PG- 13

WATCH: Max, Apple TV, Amazon Video, Youtube, AMC on Demand

Whale Rider

A powerful film about a young Maori girl who challenges tradition to prove herself as a leader.

(2002) Rating: PG- 13

WATCH: Starz, Hoopla, Apple TV, Amazon Video, Youtube