Best Public Schools in Kansas City, MO

The city of Kansas City, Missouri is home to 146 schools, spanning 91 elementary schools, 27 middle schools, 25 high schools, and 3 alternative schools across various districts. The schools in this area exhibit a wide range of academic performance, with some standout institutions like Park Hill High and Staley High ranking among the top schools in the state, while others like Northeast High and Central High School struggle with lower proficiency rates.

The data reveals significant disparities in academic performance between schools, with some elementary schools like Rising Hill Elementary and Nashua Elementary ranking among the top in the state, while others like Garfield Elementary and Northeast High struggle academically. The presence of high-performing charter schools, such as Academie Lafayette Armour IMS, suggests that school choice may play a role in providing families with access to quality educational options.

Socioeconomic factors appear to have a significant impact on student achievement, with schools serving higher-poverty populations, such as Guadalupe Centers High School, tending to have lower proficiency rates. The data also highlights the unique challenges faced by alternative schools, like Northwest Reg. Youth Center, which have lower graduation rates and higher chronic absenteeism. Overall, the educational landscape in Kansas City, Missouri is diverse, with both high-performing and low-performing schools, underscoring the need for targeted interventions and support to ensure equitable access to quality education for all students.