Is it legal to show copyrighted movies in my class?
Yes, it is.
Under the "Face-to-Face Teaching Exemption," copyrighted movies may be shown in a K-12 school setting without copyright permission only if all criteria are met: A teacher or instructor is present and engaged in face-to-face teaching activities. The institution must be an accredited, nonprofit educational institution. Source: https://guides.library.brandeis.edu/c.php?g=301951&p=2018329
Is it legal to show copyrighted movies as a fundraiser or club activity?
No, you must purchase a streaming license.
Where can I purchase a license for streaming for an event outside of the classroom?
Two main providers of movie licensing are Swank Motion Pictures, Inc and Criterion. Simply let them know the title that you are looking to license, and they will facilitate your purchase of the appropriate license based on the scope of your event.
Each streaming service works differently so it is good to educate yourself on their policies. If a service does not specify a different policy than the Copyright exemption you are probably good to go, provided you are showing films for educational purposes.
Netflix , Hulu and Amazon Prime do not grant permission for their their videos to be streamed in classrooms. Their terms of use specifies that their streaming service is for personal use only. However, Netflix has a library of videos with classroom permissions. Check out that library here: https://media.netflix.com/en/
Companies like Swank K12 work with school districts to build collections of movies with K-12 classroom permissions. Several Maine schools have already partnered with Swank and it is something SPHS is looking into. Stay tuned!
When streaming movies in class you can't use Airplay. Apple TV prohibits streaming from streaming services from a device to Apple TV.
You have two options:
1. Log in to your Apple TV directly with your Apple ID and download the desired streaming app . Log into that app with your credentials and stream from there. If you are not comfortable using your personal Apple ID, please go to option #2.
2. Use the HDMI cable to connect your device to your projector which bypasses the Apple TV.