Sumner Elementary school students left class early today singing ... and making history.

Grace Villabros (Teacher): I think its going to hit me harder later ... and all of us, as a matter of fact ... we're all sad about the place closing, but I guess it's progress.

The building will remain standing because in 1987 Sumner Elementary school became a National Historic Landmark.

Tony Vargas (Principal): And we've had people from out of state, also, who stop by and say can we look at the school just because it is a national landmark. They just want to tour the school, and we encourage it.

School administrators say this is the last time Sumner students will all gather together for a yearbook snapshot.

But others disagree. Reporter: Is it sad?

Girl One: [shakes head yes] Yeh.

Girl Two: [shakes head no] No.

Since the focus of the historic Brown versus Board of Education desegration case tourists still ask to see the school.

Voice of Grace Villabros: Actually, I would hope it could become a museum. I think that would be great.

After 60 years Sumner doors will close and students and teachers will pack up and leave for good.

While many say the school's closing is a loss, they say they are thankful the building won't be torn down.

This is the entrance to the historic site.

Hoping to continue to pass on the lessons learned from the past.

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Amy Hawley, 13 News at 10