Use of Potentially Objectionable Films
NEPN/NSBA Code: IMBA
Movies and videos that are rated PG or TV-PG (K-4 grades), PG-13, R, TV-14, or
TV-MA (5-8 grades), R or TV-MA, NC-17, or unrated for mature audiences (9-12 grades), are not to be shown in any school location without prior approval of the building principal. School location is defined as any school building or on any school premises; in any school-owned vehicle or in other school-approved vehicle used to transport students to and from school or school activities; off school property at any school-sponsored or school-approved activity, event, or function, such as a field trip or athletic event, where students are under the jurisdiction of the school unit; or during any period of time such employee is supervising or in the presence of students on behalf of the school system.
The request will be in writing and will include the following information:
Educational justification for the use of the movie/video with specific rationale for why this resource enriches the curriculum in a way that could not occur if the movie/video were not used.
Specify how much of the movie/video will be used (excerpts or in its entirety) and how much class time will be required for its viewing.
Indicate why the movie/video has the restricted rating (e.g. violence, language, adult themes, etc.).
That alternative class arrangement/assignment will be made for any student who does not have parental permission to view the movie/video.
The building principal will view the proposed movie/video as part of his/her consideration of the teacher request to use a movie/video that is otherwise prohibited at that grade level. If the administrator approves the movie/video's use, no student in the class shall be allowed to view the movie/video unless a parent has given written consent by signing IMBA-E. Parents will be given at least a two (2) week notice of the movie/video's showing so they can make a request to view the movie/video, if they choose, in order to determine its appropriateness for their student.
(Non-school groups need approval from the building principal to show a movie or video in any school location that is rated PG or TV-PG (K-4), PG-13, R, TV-14, or TV-MA (5-8), R or TV-MA, NC-17, or unrated for mature audiences (9-12).)
Approved: May 8, 2008
Cross Reference:
IJJ - Media Materials Selection and Adoption
IMB - Teaching About Controversial/Sensitive Issues