The films
Documentaries about America's COVID school closures
A growing set of documentaries tells the story of America's pandemic school closures and what they meant for children and families. Here is each film and where to watch it.
15 DAYS: The Real Story of America's Pandemic School Closures
2025 · Documentary · 1 hr 9 min · Directed by Natalya Murakhver
A documentary revealing why America's school closures lasted longer than almost any other nation, told through students, parents, teachers and doctors, including NIH Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya.
Where to watch
Restore Childhood SubstackPrime VideoApple TVGoogle PlayYouTube
Generation COVID
2026 · Documentary · Directed by Andrew James and Jennifer Sey
Follows children and families in California, New York, Oregon, Colorado and Connecticut as they live with the effects of pandemic-era school closures and mandates.
Where to watch
SalemNOW, from November 13, 2026Official site
Bucks County, USA
2026 · Five-part docuseries · Directed by Robert May and Barry Levinson
Examines personal relationships and political tensions in Pennsylvania's Central Bucks School District during and after the pandemic.
Where to watch
Homeroom
2021 · Documentary · Directed by Peter Nicks
Follows a group of Oakland High School seniors through the 2019-2020 school year, disrupted by the pandemic and national protests. Premiered at the Sundance Film Festival.
Where to watch
HuluOfficial site
Release details from Fox News, Hot Air, WHYY and each film's official site, checked October 31, 2026. Know a film we should add? Tell us.
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