Documentary Filmed In Stamford Public Schools Premieres On PBS

STAMFORD, CT — A documentary filmed in Stamford Public Schools that captures the experiences of students, teachers and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic has premiered on Boston PBS affiliate WGBH, according to an announcement from SPS.

The film, titled "School District," was created by filmmakers Leigh and Jason Morfoot, who are also SPS parents.

The Stamford Board of Education unanimously approved a resolution in 2019 granting the couple access to schools to produce a film celebrating the work of public educators and the role of public education in society.

When the pandemic disrupted production, the Morfoots shifted the focus of the project to document how the school community adapted to the unprecedented challenges of remote learning, health precautions and changing classroom conditions during the 2020–21 school year.

"School District" follows students, teachers, administrators and staff as they navigate the year and features many familiar faces from across the district.

"This fly-on-the-wall series chronicles Connecticut’s Stamford Public Schools navigating a year like no other," a description of the film says on PBS. "Tracing the shifting landscapes of remote learning, hybrid classrooms, and cautious returns, the intrepid creative resilience that carried teaching and learning forward during the pandemic frames this portrait of a community meeting uncertainty with determination and care."

Part One of the documentary, titled "Fall," is now airing on WGBH and is available to stream online and through the free PBS app for iPhone, Android and most smart TVs and streaming services.

The Board of Education, Superintendent Dr. Tamu Lucero and the filmmakers expressed appreciation to all who participated in the project.

"The Board of Education, Superintendent Dr. Tamu Lucero, and the Morfoots extend their deepest gratitude to every student, teacher, staff member, and family within Stamford Public Schools for their participation in this important documentary," the district said in its announcement.