2024 Best Public High Schools in the Kansas City Area

• Blue Valley Unified School District (Overland Park), KS•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  378 reviews

Alum: The best parts about BVN is the community. There are so many opportunities to meet new people and establish a network of friendships. Additionally, there are many academic opportunities where students are able to showcase their knowledge and skills. While students may be able to showcase these academic achievements, they unfortunately are not appreciated enough compared to the athletics. In these athletics, majority of them are toxic environments designed to discourage beginners who would like to try something new and bring up star athletes. The coaches of the athletics favor these talented athletes and do very little to make the experience enjoyable for new athletes, creating toxic interactions between student athletes. However, during school hours, the school is well equipped with amazing teachers who help students achieve optimal grades and clear understanding.... Read 378 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,531

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Blue Valley Unified School District (Overland Park), KS•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.32 out of 5  371 reviews

Senior: Blue Valley High School, located in a serene suburban setting, is an school that played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between my secondary education and my future endeavors in the field of medicine. It is a commendable school that has nurtured countless students and prepared them for their academic pursuits. As the world rapidly advances, it is evident that Blue Valley High School is in need of significant updates to continue providing a well-rounded education. The faculty and staff are dedicated professionals who prioritize the success of their students, going above and beyond to ensure a high-quality education. Despite its many strengths, Blue Valley High School would greatly benefit from updates and improvements to align its curriculum and facilities with modern educational standards. Upgrading the science laboratories with state-of-the-art equipment and technology would enhance hands-on learning experiences, enabling students to conduct advanced experiments and research.... Read 371 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,487

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Blue Valley Unified School District (Overland Park), KS•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.05 out of 5  312 reviews

Alum: As a recent graduate from Blue Valley West High School, there were some definite pro's and con's. As a student I ran Cross Country, Track, and Diving, I would say overall my experience at Blue Valley West High School was positive. Great neighborhood nearby, teachers are nice and love to help their students. One of my favorite things as someone who deals with a learning disability BVW is very accommodating to the students with disabilities, the list goes on and on! Hope this helps anyone is considering BVW! Go Jags!... Read 312 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,654

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1

• Blue Valley Unified School District (Overland Park), KS•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.04 out of 5  444 reviews

Senior: I moved to this school right my freshman year. It's a fairly large school with a population of 1.6k people, which means it can be pretty crowded. But with more people means more ideas, diversity, and activities. There are a large amount of clubs students can join, various amount of sports, and classes that are typically unavailable in other schools like graphic design, fashion and apperal, 21st century journalism, and game design and more. The music department have won many awards and are filled with amazing directors. I was the member of the matching band, and unlike most schools, students actually like watching the band! Like any school, there have been internal conflict, however new staff have been good at finding progressive solutions, which will hopefully get even better as time goes on. Recently, BVNW installed a new safety system that allows teachers to respond to events via a literal push of a button.... Read 444 reviews

• grade A+

• Students 1,569

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Shawnee Mission School District, KS•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  403 reviews

Parent: Shawnee Mission East is a wonderful school with wonderful academics! The school could use some organization, and more communication throughout its staff, but otherwise, it has been a wonderful experience for me and my daughter.... Read 403 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,676

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Olathe Public Schools, KS•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  583 reviews

Alum: My expirence was great! Loved all the teachers and administration. Amazing sports teams and clubs. The diversity is amazing, I felt very safe and included at the school. Always had events and assembly to take part in. Classes were good, got a chance to get lots of college level credit classes that helped me in college.... Read 583 reviews

• grade A

• Students 2,093

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Kansas City Kansas Public Schools, KS•

• 8-12

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  510 reviews

Senior: I have been attending Sumner Academy since the 8th grade. I have seen many people fall to the pressures and stress that this school places upon its students. However, this does not mean it is a terrible place. These students have fallen to the stress because they could not handle it. Sumner Academy was built for rigorous courses that over-prepares their students for college. The curriculum at this school is built upon the International Baccalaureate (IB) foundations, offering a plethora of studies from mathematics to art. I myself have been a part of the full IB program. In this program I have been retaught the meaning of intelligence and critical thinking. In the full IB program students are encouraged to be inquirers, thinkers, and involve themselves in the community. This program reignited my love for learning and influenced me to pursue things that I usually would not have done. In exchange for a stressful two years, students receive a lifetime of success and opportunity.... Read 510 reviews

• grade A

• Students 999

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Blue Valley Unified School District (Overland Park), KS•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  321 reviews

Alum: I though going to school at Blue Valley Southwest High School prepared me well for college. I took classes that transferred my credits to my university, so I was able to enter at a sophomore level in college. The school spirit was always high and the surrounding community was alway involved. There are different clubs and activities that are accessible to any student. The teachers make an effort to connect with their students and help them succeed. I would like to see a better delegation of money being put towards the school. For example, money should be put towards the school building and it's appliances rather than the football or baseball fields.... Read 321 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,071

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Olathe Public Schools, KS•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  649 reviews

Senior: As a Varsity cheerleader, I spent a lot of time immersed in school activities over my 4 years at Olathe Northwest High School. The involvement my teachers had in student life was incredible! Teachers would often be seen at non-school activities to show support to a child and their families. I truly got to know several of the teachers on a personal level. They really made you feel like they cared about you as an individual. If I could change something it would to add more practical/life skills classes.... Read 649 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,908

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Shawnee Mission School District, KS•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.09 out of 5  339 reviews

Freshman: I've only been attending for a semester, but I enjoy the courses, teachers and atmosphere. There are plenty of studen-run after-school activities, tons of exploration opportunities, and preperation for colleges. The students are generally pretty nice, and it wasn't hard to find a friend group I fit in with. The academic counselors are easy to talk to, and are very helpful with course selection/schedule details. The music and arts programs (orchestra, band, choir, theatre, sculpting, painting, etc) are enjoyable and immersive, with good supplies, fun activities, and student involvement. Although I'm not involved with it, I've heard from my peers that the athletic department is well run and full of opportunities.... Read 339 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,665

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Lee's Summit R-VII School District, MO•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  545 reviews

Senior: I absolutely loved my experience with Lee's Summit West High School. I started my freshman year during the collectiveness of the pandemic. Meaning, that we were "hybrid" for half of the year and in school and out of school for the remainder. My next two years were followed with an abundance of love and acceptance. The teachers were getting back into teaching in-person students and the school put effort into finding resources that could help every student get back into learning. Our school consistently does surveys to try and make our school a better place which is why I feel like many students feel included and safe here. Our school also offers a multitude of diverse clubs for everyone so there will always be a place at our school for any interest. Sports also range quite drastically as we have several sports options: basketball, football, soccer, swimming, diving, tennis, volleyball, and so many more! I haven't had many bad experiences at this school and I am grateful to claim it.... Read 545 reviews

• grade A

• Students 2,044

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Shawnee Mission School District, KS•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  335 reviews

Senior: My experience at Shawnee Mission South has been nothing but positive, it's all about what you make of the experience. Staying involved through sports, clubs, and electives is vital to making your high school experience a blast. My biggest recommendation for anyone going to South would be to join the cross country team. The distance team is just one happy family that is so welcoming and fun! Even if you aren't into running, there is something for everyone! Games clubs, interact volunteering club, student council organization, student unions, and so many more. Academically, South is really what you make of it. You can skate by taking easy classes or challenge yourself to get better with AP and honors courses. The teachers are always willing to help and excited to hear about your life. I wouldn't have picked any other school! #SOUTHCULTURE... Read 335 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,512

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• DeSoto Unified School District, KS•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  297 reviews

Senior: Desoto High School saved my life. Last year, I decided to transfer from a neighboring school, Mill Valley. Mill Valley was a dreadful and disappointing experience, to say the least. I was depressed, mostly due to the students that attended there making me feel out of place, and I found myself contemplating life more than once. However, after an abundance of convincing my parents, I found myself in a new school. Suffering from anxiety, I was anxious my experience at Desoto would relate a lot to my experience at Mill Valley. Nonetheless, I found people that understood me. People weren't snobby and entitled like Mill Valley, they were approachable and kind. Soon enough, I found myself more friends within my first week there than in my entire experience at Mill Vally. Even the "popular" kids were more accepting. For once, I found a place where I could show my true character and not feel judged walking through the school halls during passing period. I was saved.... Read 297 reviews

• grade A

• Students 976

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• North Kansas City School District, MO•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  364 reviews

Sophomore: Staley is a great school over all there kind to others. The upper class man help a lot to freshman and getting to know the teachers and the clubs and sport are amazing in their own way. I have made lots of memories and I have grown a lot since 8 grade coming to Staley because of the people there I feel like things could have been better with just not trying to be fake in aspects of inclusivity like in clubs or sports they don’t fund enough money for clubs like step which I do and the sponsors or the teachers that are helping the clubs or running the club. Sometimes if they don’t get enough funding, then they have to take out their own pockets like in my club step, our coach has take out some money of the yearbook fund because she does a yearbook club to, and it’s kind of sad but Staley is a good school it’s just something need to be change and that’s one of the things that need to be changed.... Read 364 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,783

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Lee's Summit R-VII School District, MO•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  460 reviews

Sophomore: I would love to see my school become safer, there are many fights and makes many students feel uncomfortable. I do like our school’s sports and music programs. Also, I would like to see more diversity in friend groups and teachers. Overall, I feel I have greatly benefitted my education from Lee’s Summit North!... Read 460 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,979

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Park Hill School District, MO•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  275 reviews

Senior: I have enjoyed my years at Park Hill South High School! We have good teachers, fun activities, highly competitive sports, and great students! I would like to take away the hall pass system. E-hallpass is a hassle and it is very annoying for the students and extremely controlling.... Read 275 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,835

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• DeSoto Unified School District, KS•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  371 reviews

Senior: The teachers truly try to connect with every one of their students. The student atmosphere is studious yet uplifting! The after school activities are definitely the best part, as it feeds into the passion that the students have at Mill Valley. This includes football games, relay for life (cancer event that raises tens of thousands every year with fun activities to fundraise for the American Cancer Society), theatrical performances, and more. Although Mill Valley’s environment is very uplifting, I would like to see change would be an open lunch policy. Lunch is often quite restricting and contains limited options of food every week. Many students bring their own lunch, but it would be nice for students to be able to leave and buy lunch from another place so students can have a change of scenery and a small break from school.... Read 371 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,317

• Student-teacher ratio 16:1

• Blue Springs R-IV School District, MO•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.13 out of 5  384 reviews

Senior: My freshman year started off a bit rocky. Our nation was in the middle of the Covid pandemic. All classes were virtual: no extracurricular activities, no study hours and little to no tutoring. By my sophomore year, things had began to seem as if they were returning to normal. I was able to join the track team, take dual credit classes and socialize with kids my age; all while wearing a mask. Once junior year came around, I had discovered my love for cooking and baking. I signed up for our culinary arts program. This program was simply heaven sent. I was able to prepare many dishes for several different cultures. Now that my senior year has arrived, I am excited but nervous for what my future holds. I am looking forward to prom and graduation; however, I am not looking forward to saying goodbye to all of my classmates and instructors.... Read 384 reviews

• grade A

• Students 2,248

• Student-teacher ratio 19:1

• Lee's Summit R-VII School District, MO•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.02 out of 5  326 reviews

Sophomore: Lee's Summit High School during its construction was a challenging adventure. Navigating the evolving campus posed challenges, yet it fostered a strong sense of unity among students. The construction noise occasionally disrupted classes, but the faculty's dedication to our education remained unwavering. Despite the obstacles, the positive atmosphere prevailed, encouraging students to engage in extracurricular activities and clubs. The school's focus on holistic development allowed for lasting friendships and skill building. Witnessing the school's transformation was a source of pride, knowing we were part of a community investing in an improved learning environment. Lees Summit High School remains a testament to embracing growth, preparing students for a bright future.... Read 326 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,921

• Student-teacher ratio 13:1

• Kansas City School District, MO•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  426 reviews

Senior: My experience with Lincoln College Prep. was very good! I really enjoyed this school and making memories and having an education here. The teachers create a safe space with the students. Respecting the student's religion and what they are going through allows them to express themselves and have a voice. It is incredible to see how each student creates a bond with others. There are times when the school can be rowdy, but it clears up by the end of the day. The school gives second chances to the students as they encourage and help them in the way they need.... Read 426 reviews

• grade A

• Students 996

• Student-teacher ratio 23:1

• Park Hill School District, MO•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  364 reviews

Senior: Overall, I have had a very positive experience at park hill. I have been given opportunities that many others haven't such as a wide array of AP classes to choose from, counselors that have helped me with college and career preparation, and support in the face of economic hardship. They have helped with this through the free and reduced lunch program and have helped to make sure that my AP/ACT exams are covered as well as my parking pass, activity pass, and prom ticket. I have also been majorly impacted and uplifted by the friends I have made at Park Hill. This is due to the fact that I met them in classes that we were both passionate about such as AP Bio and AP Environmental Science. I have also met friends through the clubs at Park Hill, of which there are many. I have made many true friends through conservation club. I might not have gotten to know them had I not been in a school where creating clubs based on your passions is so highly encouraged.... Read 364 reviews

• grade A

• Students 1,859

• Student-teacher ratio 17:1

• Blue Springs R-IV School District, MO•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  463 reviews

Senior: When I first move to blue springs school district, it was a big change for me from my old district. The teachers are very helpful and do want to help the kids like me succeed! I never had that at my old school/ district... We also had the access to our teachers than my old school. We can always schedule appointments if necessary and they are always willing to help us in any area that we are lacking or needing assistance . The teachers here are more engaged with us. They do actually do care for our well being order than just class work. They kids here also are ok. We all seem to get along. The only place I think will need improvement will be the diversity of the school. But we are getting there. The sport activities here are also awesome. Lots of sports to participate in. I will always be grateful to my sch for helping in my education and prepping me for college. At first I was scared and didn't thunk I could catch up when I first transferred here but they help me alot! Thank you.... Read 463 reviews

• grade A

• Students 2,449

• Student-teacher ratio 22:1

• Olathe Public Schools, KS•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  596 reviews

Junior: Olathe South High School is a great school. They have really good sports programs and many different clubs to enjoy. The faculty and staff is pretty friendly and they have amazing music programs! If I were to change anything it would be the food. Ever since the Coronavirus the food has not been the best, but it is free, so it is okay. Overall I give OSHS 4 stars.... Read 596 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 1,944

• Student-teacher ratio 15:1

• Olathe Public Schools, KS•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  449 reviews

Parent: Olathe East Sr High School held plenty of diversity. At East there were various ethnic and religious groups that gave the school a different culture. The teachers, overall, were willing to help their students with any and everything needed. Most teachers wanted to see their students succeed after their class and in real-world life. The sports programs at Olathe East were fair compared to others in the school district. Basketball was always interesting to watch! Some changes I would like to see at Olathe East is more diversity within the school's spirit weeks, sport's game themes, and the staff. I would love to see a more diverse spirit week line up including different cultures. I, also, would like to see a more diverse faculty/staff within our school.... Read 449 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 1,885

• Student-teacher ratio 14:1

• Basehor-Linwood Unified School District, KS•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  208 reviews

Senior: I've liked Basehor-Linwood High School all four years I've gone here. The community is super welcoming and a great place to be! There's so many sports and events to get involved in, and there's tons of diverse opinions to hear from! There's many teachers that excel in what they teach, and do such a great job! The classes I'm currently taking are all preparing me for a successful future, and getting me ready for living on my own. I'm so excited to make my last few months of memories here before going to college.... Read 208 reviews

• grade A minus

• Students 819

• Student-teacher ratio 18:1