As part of After School Special: The 2024 School of Visual Arts Alumni Film & Animation Festival, we are pleased to present a screening of the film Forget Me Not: Inclusion in the Classroom (2021).  This insightful documentary, set within New York City’s public school system, follows 3-year-old Emilio and his family as they find themselves embroiled in a challenge all too common for children with disabilities – to secure the right to an inclusive education.  After the film, join director Olivier Bernier (BFA 2006 Film and Video) as he discusses his journey as both the filmmaker and one of the film’s subjects.  The Q&A will be moderated by current SVA student Tatiana Kireicheva (MFA 2025 Photography, Video and Related Media).

Synopsis: As 3-year-old Emilio prepares to start school, his family finds itself embroiled in a challenge all too common for children with disabilities – to secure the right to an inclusive education. Cornered in one of the most segregated education systems, New York City public schools, filmmaker Olivier and his wife Hilda turn the camera on themselves and their child with Down syndrome, as they navigate a byzantine system originally designed to silo children with disabilities.

Forget Me Not is not rated by the MPAA, and some material may be inappropriate for children under the age of 10.  Children ages 3 and under may not be admitted.

Doors will open approximately 30 minutes prior to each screening.  Guests can enjoy a special selection of videos by SVA alumni in the lobby while waiting to enter.

Ticket Information

All After School Special 2024 screenings are free and open to the public. General Admission RSVPs via Eventbrite are appreciated, but not necessary, and do not guarantee admittance. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.

If you would like to attend this event, but require assistive devices and/or accommodations, please email [email protected] or call 212-592-2980 at least one week prior.

Concessions Information

SVA Theatre does not offer concessions, but will offer water to guests.

Please contact [email protected] with questions. Guests subject to change.