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Guidelines for Showing Videos in the Classroom

Understanding Copyright & Streaming in Schools

To ensure compliance with copyright laws and user agreements, please follow these guidelines when using movies and streaming services in the classroom.

✅ What’s Allowed?

✔ Swank Movie License

  • Tyrrell County Schools holds a Swank Movie License - Public Performance Site License for copyrighted major motion pictures.
  • This allows legally obtained movies (such as those owned by our Media Centers) to be shown in classrooms.
  • A copy of this license should be on display in each school’s Media Center.

✔ Legally Obtained Movies

  • Movies purchased by the school or Media Center can be shown if used for instructional purposes.
  • Under Section 110(1) of the U.S. Copyright Act, educators may play full movies or clips in a nonprofit school during face-to-face instruction.

🚫 What’s Not Allowed?

❌ Streaming from Personal Accounts

  • Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Prime Video, Apple TV, and other streaming services typically prohibit public or educational use under their User Agreements/Terms of Service.
  • These services are intended for personal use only.

❌ Playing Music from Streaming Services

  • Pandora, Spotify, Apple Music, and similar platforms have restrictions on playing music in schools.

📌 Tip: If a teacher needs to show a movie or play music, they should verify copyright permissions or seek explicit permission from the service provider.

📌 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

🔹 Can I play a movie I own on DVD or a digital copy in class?
Yes, as long as the copy was legally obtained and is used for instructional purposes.

🔹 What about YouTube videos?
Some YouTube videos are legally allowed for educational use, but always check the video’s licensing details. Content labeled as "Creative Commons" or posted by verified educational sources is usually safe to use.

🔹 Where can I find more guidance?
📖 NCDPI Copyright FAQ
📖 NCDPI Copyright Toolkit

❓ Have Questions?

If you’re unsure about a specific situation, contact Audrey Curles, TCS Chief Technology Officer, for guidance.