“A STORY OF SOUTHWEST HIGH SCHOOL” Video

Nick Vedros, a member of the class of 1971, recently created a mini-documentary about Southwest High’s history.

“A Story of Southwest High School” describes the opening of the school in 1925 with 951 students and its climb to national prominence during its first fifty years. The school earned national acclaim during the 1930s and in the mid 60s was recognized as one of the top schools in the country. Its alumni included prominent musicians, artists, scientists, business leaders, and entrepreneurs.

The school’s athletic teams also excelled, winning four state championships in track during the 1950s and a swimming title in 1969. The football team had great success in the late 60s and early 70s, achieving an undefeated season in 1968 and making the state playoffs in 1972. The 1972 team had the distinction of winning the first high school playoff game in Arrowhead Stadium on its way to a state championship.

The documentary also describes the eventual decline of Southwest from the late 70s through the 1990s due to teacher strikes and other issues facing the Kansas City School District during that period.

The video captures the outstanding spirit of the school and its students’ accomplishments both inside and outside the classroom.  Many thanks to Nick and all those who collaborated on this project, including the daughters of Coach Robinson and Coach Breckenridge, and narrator Ed Matheny, class of 1971.

The video is available various Southwest Facebook pages and is also on YouTube here: