Streaming bliss that will captivate teachers’ hearts and minds!
When teachers finally get a moment to relax and unwind, there’s nothing quite like snuggling up on the couch and diving into a binge-worthy show or movie.
Thankfully, there are a number of captivating Netflix shows and movies out there that deeply resonate with educators, offering an irresistible getaway into relatable stories and inspiring characters.
From hilarious comedies to shows featuring relatable teacher experiences, here are 13 binge-worthy shows and movies perfect for teachers to unwind, enjoy well-deserved downtime, and even discover some teachable moments.
Grace and Frankie
Prepare to have your heart warmed and your funny bone tickled with this delightful and hilarious comedy series that is sure to captivate teachers. Follow Grace and Frankie as they navigate life and friendship after their husbands leave them for each other.
This series is a must-watch for teachers because of its stellar cast, led by the incomparable Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. Their chemistry and comedic timing are impeccable, bringing the characters to life with authenticity and charm. The show’s ensemble cast, including the talented Martin Sheen and Sam Waterston, adds depth and richness to the storytelling.
Dear White People
Based on the acclaimed film of the same name, this compelling and thought-provoking comedy series that fearlessly dives into the complexities of race, identity, and privilege is set on a predominantly white Ivy League college campus. With its perfect blend of wit, intelligence, and nuance, this show explores important social issues, leaving viewers inspired and enlightened.
Through the perspectives of a diverse group of students, Dear White People challenges societal norms, confronts stereotypes, and prompts critical conversations about race relations. The show addresses sensitive topics head-on, shedding light on the experiences and struggles of marginalized communities in a way that is both enlightening and empowering.
Community
Viewers get to immerse themselves in the delightfully zany world of Greendale Community College, where a diverse and eccentric group of students embark on hilarious misadventures. This smart and meta sitcom is a hit among educators for its clever pop culture references, sharp writing, and insightful social commentary.
What makes Community particularly appealing to educators is its clever blend of humor and satire, which offers a refreshing and light-hearted take on the challenges and quirks of academia. The show’s clever pop culture references and meta-commentary on TV tropes and conventions add an extra layer of enjoyment for teachers, who can appreciate the clever nods and inside jokes.
The Fundamentals of Caring
Paul Rudd stars in this heartwarming comedy-drama as a caregiver who forms an unlikely friendship with a teenager with muscular dystrophy. Through their adventures, the film explores themes of empathy, growth, and the power of human connection.
At its core, this movie explores themes of empathy, growth, and the importance of embracing life’s challenges. Through their adventures together, the caregiver and the teenager embark on a journey of self-discovery, pushing boundaries and learning valuable life lessons along the way. Teachers, often at the forefront of nurturing and supporting their students, will resonate with the film’s portrayal of the profound influence they can have on young lives.
GLOW
Set against the backdrop of the Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling (GLOW) promotion, the show delves into the lives of a diverse group of women who come together to pursue their dreams in the unconventional world of professional wrestling. It celebrates these women’s strength, resilience, and camaraderie as they navigate personal and professional challenges, breaking stereotypes and defying expectations along the way.
Teachers will appreciate the show’s ability to balance humor and heart, providing moments of laughter, heartfelt emotions, and relatable experiences. It serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling, highlighting the impact that creative endeavors, teamwork, and community support can have on personal growth and empowerment.
Hidden Figures
This extraordinary and inspiring film brings to light the untold story of the brilliant African-American female mathematicians who played a vital role at NASA during the Space Race era. This remarkable true story celebrates the power of education, perseverance, and breaking barriers, making it an absolute must-watch for teachers.
The film highlights these women’s remarkable achievements in mathematics and science and goes deeper into broader themes of equality, social justice, and the pursuit of dreams. It serves as a powerful tool for teachers to inspire their students, especially young girls and minority students, to pursue their passions and overcome societal barriers.
Sex Education
A captivating coming-of-age comedy-drama that explores the complexities of teenage life, relationships, and sexuality. This bold and fearless series offers a unique blend of humor, empathy, and honest storytelling that resonates with teachers working with adolescents.
As educators watch Sex Education, they will appreciate its ability to address sensitive topics non-judgmentally and inclusively. The series serves as a reminder of the importance of comprehensive sex education and the need for open and honest dialogue with students.
Bad Education
This captivating dark comedy-drama dives into the underbelly of the education system, offering a satirical and thought-provoking experience. Led by the remarkable performance of Hugh Jackman, this film exposes the corrupt practices of a charismatic school superintendent, providing an intriguing exploration of power, deception, and moral dilemmas.
Through its sharp writing and compelling storytelling, Bad Education offers a unique perspective on the flaws and vulnerabilities within the education system. It challenges viewers to question the motives and ethics of those in positions of authority, sparking conversations and reflections on the complexities of the educational landscape.
Freedom Writers
An incredibly powerful and inspiring drama that brings to life the true story of a remarkable teacher who defied the odds to make a lasting impact on her at-risk students. Through the transformative power of writing, this movie showcases educators’ incredible potential to change lives and foster a sense of hope and empowerment.
This captivating story serves as a poignant reminder of teachers’ profound influence on their students, especially those facing adversity. It highlights the importance of empathy, understanding, and belief in the untapped potential within each individual. This movie will remind educators of their own ability to make a positive difference in the lives of their students, no matter the challenges they may face.
The Kominsky Method
This captivating comedy-drama series invites viewers on a journey of self-reflection and laughter. Starring the legendary Michael Douglas and Alan Arkin, the show delves into the complexities and nuances of aging with wit, grace, and profound storytelling.
This series holds a mirror up to the audience, prompting viewers to ponder their own lives, careers, and personal growth. Teachers will find themselves relating to the characters as they navigate the ups and downs of aging and reflect on their own professional journeys.
Dead Poets Society
An absolute gem of a film! Robin Williams delivers an extraordinary performance as an unconventional English teacher who leaves an indelible mark on his students’ lives. Through his character’s unorthodox teaching methods, he ignites a passion for literature, free-thinking, and self-expression.
This timeless drama is a celebration of the transformative power of education. It beautifully captures a teacher’s profound impact on their students, inspiring them to break free from societal expectations and embrace their unique voices. The film encourages educators to foster creativity, critical thinking, and the pursuit of individual passions.
Abbot Elementary
A fantastic binge-worthy show for teachers due to its relatable and authentic portrayal of the joys and challenges of the teaching profession. The series follows a dedicated group of educators at a Philadelphia public school as they navigate the ups and downs of their profession with humor, heart, and a touch of realism.
Available on Hulu, Abbot Elementary effortlessly captivates viewers with its pure enjoyment factor. This delightful show has earned its place among binge-worthy favorites due to its irresistible charm and entertainment value.
Teachers
A delightful and relatable comedy series that invites viewers into the lives of six elementary school teachers as they explore the second plane of development. Teachers captures the essence of their joys, challenges, and of course, those hilarious moments. While not available on Netflix, this show is worth seeking out for its witty writing, talented cast, and authentic portrayal of the teaching profession.
The series provides a refreshing and honest look at the ups and downs of being an educator, striking a chord with teachers who can relate to the daily trials and triumphs showcased on screen. With its clever humor and relatable characters, Teachers offer a sense of camaraderie, validating the experiences and emotions teachers encounter in their classrooms.
These binge-worthy shows and movies offer a diverse range of genres and themes that cater to the varied tastes of teachers, providing them with opportunities to unwind, find inspiration, and enjoy well-crafted storytelling during their downtime.
What are your go-to binge-worthy shows or movies for teachers seeking inspiration or just plain old entertainment?