Watch Curators of Dixon School

The movie "Curators of Dixon School" is an inspirational documentary about two women who came together to save a historic school in their neighborhood. Joan Dameron Crisler and Sharon Dale, both alumni of Dixon School in Chatham, Illinois, noticed that their beloved school was falling into disrepair and about to be demolished. They decided to take matters into their own hands and spearheaded a campaign to save the school.

The film takes us on a journey through their efforts, starting with their initial plan to petition the city council to spare the building. When that failed, they decided to take a more proactive approach and formed a nonprofit organization to raise funds to purchase and restore the school.

The film follows the ups and downs of their journey, including their struggles to secure funding, overcome bureaucratic obstacles, and convince the community of the importance of preserving the school's legacy.

We learn about the history of Dixon School, a once-segregated school that was a significant center of Black education in southern Illinois. Through interviews with former students, we hear about the impact the school had on their lives and how it shaped their sense of identity.

As the project gains momentum, Crisler and Dale are joined by a passionate team of volunteers, including architects, construction workers, and educators. The film highlights the tireless efforts of these individuals, who worked tirelessly to restore the school to its former glory.

Throughout the film, we witness moments of joy, as the team successfully secures grants and donations to bring the project to fruition. We also see moments of frustration and disappointment, as setbacks threaten to undermine their efforts.

Despite the challenges, the team perseveres, and in the end, they succeed in restoring Dixon School to its former glory. The film culminates in a joyous celebration, as the community comes together to celebrate the reopening of the school, now repurposed as a community center.

Overall, "Curators of Dixon School" is a powerful story of community activism, perseverance, and the importance of preserving history. It reminds us of the power of individuals to make a difference and the vital role that education plays in shaping our lives and communities.

The film is well-crafted, sensitively portraying the emotional journey of the main characters while also highlighting the broader social context of the story. With its inspiring message and compelling storytelling, "Curators of Dixon School" is a must-see for anyone interested in community activism, education, and the preservation of historic sites.