Principal Vonda Viland greets students each morning at Black Rock Continuation High School in Yucca Valley, California. She offers rides and encouragement to those at risk of dropping out. The film follows three students over a year: Lee Bridges, who balances school with fatherhood; Jennifer Coffield, who struggles without family support; and Joey McGee, who faces challenges with drug use and home instability. Their stories unfold against the backdrop of a school dedicated to helping at-risk youth succeed.

Deep Dive

Why Watch

Meet Lee Bridges, a young father striving to support his family.
Follow Jennifer Coffield as she seeks academic success without family support.
See Joey McGee confront drug use and home instability.

Did You Know

The Bad Kids premiered at the 2016 Sundance Film Festival.
The film focuses on three students: Lee Bridges, Jennifer Coffield, and Joey McGee.
Black Rock Continuation High School is located in Yucca Valley, California.
The documentary has a runtime of 101 minutes.

Perfect For

Education reformYouth support programsAlternative schooling

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the setting of The Bad Kids documentary?

The Bad Kids is set at Black Rock Continuation High School in Yucca Valley, California.

Who are the main students featured in The Bad Kids?

The main students featured are Lee Bridges, Jennifer Coffield, and Joey McGee.

When did The Bad Kids premiere?

The Bad Kids had its world premiere at the 2016 Sundance Film Festival.

Awards & Festivals

Sundance Film Festival

2016 • Award

Visions du Réel

2016 • Official selection

True/False Film Festival

Year unknown • Official selection

Full Frame Documentary Film Festival

Year unknown • Official selection

Awards & Festivals

Comments

What are people saying?

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