Academics

List of 7 frequently asked questions.

• What is the academic approach?

  Barstow offers a college prep curriculum that embraces STEM/STEAM learning, the arts and humanities — and a focus on critical thinking, collaboration and real-world application. Instruction is often hands-on and project-based, designed to build 21st-century skills. As the only RAIL (Responsible AI in Learning)-certified school in Kansas City, Barstow is implementing guidelines that encourage students to use emerging AI technology to enhance — not replace — problem solving, critical thinking and research skills. Barstow encourages students to develop depth and breadth across subject areas, rather than choosing to specialize in one area too early.

• How are students supported academically?

  Teachers emphasize personalized learning by getting to know each student’s strengths and interests, allowing for tailored instruction and support. Beginning in lower school, our faculty teaches executive functioning (planning, focusing attention, remembering instructions, and multitasking) and emphasizes individual responsibility, while still partnering with parents to support academic success. 
  
  Barstow offers 70+ Advanced Placement, Honors, and Honors College courses in the areas of English, mathematics, science, History & Social Science, world language, the arts, physical education and leadership & service learning. The curriculum is designed with three levels of rigor: college prep, honors and AP/Honors College to provide the best academic fit for each student. The school is recognized for its rigorous curriculum, including being named to the College Board's Platinum Level AP Honor Roll.

• What is the early childhood experience like?

  Every young learner's day includes exploratory play and one-on-one time with teachers, then builds from preschool through prekindergarten with structured small group projects focused on pre-reading and writing, math vocabulary and number sense, science and discovery, with specialized instruction in STEAM, music, Spanish (in kindergarten), art, library and creative movement.

• What is the lower school (grades 1-5) experience like?

  Grade level teams structure active and creative environments that encourage students to develop proficiency in language arts, math, science and social science. Students enjoy weekly world language (Spanish or Chinese), STEAM, music and art classes and daily PE. 
  
  Guided by caring teachers, students learn daily routines that give them a sense of dependability and consistency. Grade 5 students are designated leaders of lower school, giving them tools they will use in middle school to become independent, responsible learners.

• What is the middle school (grades 6-8) experience like?

  Middle school curriculum is designed to guide students with a purposeful progression of learning from grade 6 through grade 12. Students master critical skills first, then move forward to build new ones. This intentional structure promotes the transition from concrete operations to complex thinking processes in a supportive academic environment. 
  
  Barstow’s middle school meets the unique educational and developmental needs of students in grades six through eight. Students take risks that strengthen them academically and interpersonally. They consider diverse ideas, develop respect for their peers, and cultivate sensitivity to the needs of the larger community.
  
  An integrated curriculum approach in the core subject areas starting in grade 6 and continuing in grades 7-8 help add consistency and cohesion as student expectations rise in middle school.

• What is the upper school (grades 9-12) experience like?

  Barstow’s upper school experience is designed to challenge, support and inspire students as they prepare for college and life beyond. Students engage in a rigorous, college-preparatory curriculum, participate in a broad range of athletics, arts and extracurricular offerings and enjoy leading long-standing traditions as leaders of the School.
  
  Small class sizes foster meaningful relationships with teachers, who serve as both instructors and advisors, ensuring each student is known and valued. In this structured, supportive environment, students are empowered to take intellectual risks and pursue ambitious goals — an approach families often find distinguishes Barstow from its peer institutions.
  
  Signature programs allow students to pursue their interests at a high level while developing leadership and teamwork skills. Students can pursue advanced coursework, leadership roles and specialized programs in:
  

  • Robotics (FIRST and FTC teams).
  • Entrepreneurship.
  • Engineering at IDEA Space KC.
  • Digital Media.
  • Theatre.

  In and out of the classroom, Barstow believes in building community, and upper school students lead this effort. They hand down traditions to younger classmates, lead our athletic teams and organize clubs and activities that create a well-rounded experience.

• Does Barstow prepare students for college?

  Yes. Barstow is a college prep school focused on preparing students for higher education and meaningful careers, with an emphasis on intellectual, social, and emotional development. Working with students and parents, our dedicated College Counseling department provides guidance beginning as early as middle school, through a graduated process that assists with college exploration, application and matriculation. Our experienced counselors emphasize finding the right academic, social and financial fit when selecting a college or university.
  
  Fourty-three graduates in the Class of 2026 received 233 acceptances to 115 colleges and universities. Matriculation includes Duke University, Northwestern University, Carnegie Mellon University, Howard University, Creighton University, University of Michigan, George Washington University, Columbia University, Grinnell College, Washington University-St. Louis, Bryn Mawr College, Georgia Institute of Technology, and Pepperdine University.