Submitted by: Pickford Film Center
Now in its sixth year, the Pickford Film Center’s Doc-ED program continues to provide more than 5,000 Whatcom County middle schoolers an opportunity to attend documentary film screenings at no cost to their schools or families. Doc-ED films expose students to a larger world and introduce them to inspiring individuals with fascinating stories to tell.
This year, through the on-going support of the Mary Redman Foundation and hundreds of individual donations, PFC is able to cover the cost of transportation, tickets, and popcorn for every public and tribal middle school in the county, as well as local homeschool organizations. Doc-ED is also made possible by generous donations and grants from Tulalip Tribes Charitable Fund, Muckleshoot Indian Tribe, Bob and Diane Trunek, John and Donna Inglis, and Whatcom Community Foundation – Evelyn Pryce Memorial Fund.
The 2019 Doc-ED program will feature four distinct film selections, chosen for their engaging subjects, inspiring moments, and age-appropriate content. These films are: Apollo 11, a journey to the moon with Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins, featuring never-before-seen and crystal clear footage from the Apollo 11 mission. Kifaru, following the last male northern white rhino in existence, and the three caregivers who hope to save the species. Maiden, recounting the voyage of Tracy Edwards and her all-female crew in the world’s longest boat race around the world. The Serengeti Rules, exploring some of the most remote and spectacular places on earth and the five scientists making surprising discoveries that flip our understanding of nature on its head.
Pickford staff and volunteers have also created discussion guides for selected films that offer pre-viewing and post-viewing questions and activities for teachers to use in the classroom.
Teachers and administrators interested in finding out more about Doc-ED can contact Education Outreach Coordinator Mikayla Nicholson at mikayla@pickfordfilmcenter.org.
