Sumner Documentary

Sumner High School: The Best Kept Secret

The Documentary Film

It was the crime that made it all possible; in 1904 a Negro boy shot and killed a high school White boy, instantly creating a racial barrier in the Kansas City, Kansas High Schools. Forced to study in a different facility as the whites, the African Americans created a “league of their own”. These compelling recollections of True Stories and events, demonstrates the power of how a single act of negligence can have over a community and a State.

How do we keep the legacy of Sumner High School (1905-1978) alive?? How do we reach the new generation effectively? The answer is simple, speak to them through their medium, and create a documentary on DVD, a medium that will reach our video surfing, “YouTube Generation”. Dignified Digital produced a documentary covering the legacy and importance of Sumner High School including the adversity that led to its existence, the effect its had on not only the graduates of Sumner High, but the community, the faculty who help to mold the students, and Kansas as a State.


 

The Best Kept Secret In Review

  • I am an alumni of the first graduating class that completed 8 -12 when Sumner was changed from Sumner High to Sumner Academy. The spirit still lurked in the hallways of the building. As I gazed into the trophy case and looked at those items in the building it made me feel a part of that that historical time. I am so happy you chose to do this project. I made sure I got a copy not only for myself, but family that graduated from the original Sumner. (08/07/2016)
    Deidra (Richard) Parker
  • I want to comnend you on the outstanding job you did on Sumner High School “The Best Kept Secret” Documehtary. It is aweome. Your research was great. The history of the school was very profound. Thank you for allowing me to share my experience as a “Spartan” and being a part of yhe “Best Kept Secret!” Thank you for following your heart. I shared my excitement with my brother who is a Sumner High School Alumni. He wishes to order one as well. God bless you. (10/07/2014)
    Pamela Berry
  • THANK YOU FOR TAKING THE TIME AND CARING ENOUGH TO DO THIS DOCUMENTARY. I LIVE IN PORTLAND, OREGON AND SO DO A COUPLE OTHERS FROM SUMNER. I’LL MAKE SURE THEY KNOW ABOUT THIS. I’VE SPOKEN SO MUCH ABOUT SUMNER NOW I CAN SHARE. THANK YOU MAY GOD CONTINUE TO BLESS YOU RITA JAMISON. CLASS OF 1974. (9/16/2014)
    Rita Jamison
  • Hello, I attended the Premiere on Friday evening. I must say that it was very well done. I can’t even begin to imagine what it took to take 157 hours of interviewing down to 2 hours! Job Well Done! As it was mentioned in regards to a possible sequel I’m sure you have enough information to get started on that ? Also, if some didn’t mention Mr. Tate please seek out those who were taught by him. I was in two musicals “Amahl and the Night Visitors” two years in a row. He was a magnificent teacher who deserves recognition on the “sequel”. Be forever blessed in your endeavors. (9/15/2014)
    Barbara J. Caruthers-Banks
  • Thank You, Thank You… Spartans… I encourage us all to buy this DVD… Period… (9/7/2014)
    Steven E. Boyd

Here's A Sneak Peak Of This Historic Film

 

This Documentary captures the story of the famous All-Black High School which was located in Kansas City, Kansas from 1905-1978. The film highlights the rich history which includes the academic successes of its students; stories of beloved teachers, successful students, the superior athletics, outstanding musicians and more. It is the first documentary which chronicles the shooting which prompted the segregation and opening of the Sumner High School until the closing of its doors due to integration in 1978.

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#Historical #KansasCityKansas #Sumner

 
Congratulations on your production of the Sumner High School story. I really enjoyed seeing it and cannot wait to see it in its entirety. You’ve created a “dignified” presentation!(5/30/2014)


Maxine Drew
I’m a 1978 graduate of Sumner High School. My mother (Margaret J. Dixon), father (Curtis H. Liggins), and aunts and uncles also went there. My first granddaughter (Zeyairia Williams) is now a student at the academy. A long proud history in my heritage. Please keep me informed. (5/28/2014)


Cortez Liggins
I’m a 1982 graduate of Sumner Academy. My mom…Lorraine Page-Turner was Sumner High School Class of 1958 graduate. I’m excited about your project. PLEASE keep me informed. (5/28/2014)


Dana Paige
So very proud of you! (2/17/2014)


Pat McKinney
 


Dignified Digital