Finding the Right Fit: Grades 6-12

Are you searching for the best middle school or high school in Kansas City for your child? The Barstow School offers the most exceptional college preparatory education in the area. Finding the right school fit for a student in grades 6-12 is a major moment for every family. That decision can ensure a match between the student's developmental needs and an environment that promotes academic achievement and overall well-being. Here's why Barstow is where you belong.
At Barstow, we know the right fit boosts confidence, fosters a growth mindset, and provides tailored support that sets the foundation for high school success, future college admissions and long-term career opportunities. Barstow is where you belong.

Since 1884, Barstow has built a reputation for academic excellence combined with innovation and genuine care. Your child won't just be another student — they'll join a community where teachers know their name, their strengths and their aspirations. The curriculum is carefully constructed to seamlessly guide students from middle school through graduation, building critical thinking and problem solving skills while allowing them to explore diverse interests.

What Makes Barstow Stand Out Among Private & Independent Schools

What sets Barstow apart? In our grades middle and upper school classrooms (grades 6-12), students are motivated to become avid readers, award-winning writers, debaters and historians. They develop comfort and confidence in science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) at our exclusive state-of-the-art learning center, IDEA Space. They engineer robots that have competed in seven World Championships. They create, perform and lead through exceptional arts programs. Intentionally small class sizes ensure individualized attention. Our dedicated faculty doesn't just teach — they mentor. And our individualized College Counseling program guides students toward the best academic, social and economic fit among the best colleges and universities in the country.

A Well-Rounded Education that develops Mind, Body and Character 

But academics are just part of the story.  Our fine and performing arts programs put students on the stage, in ceramics and broadcast studios, behind the camera and at the debate podium. At Barstow, they don’t have to choose one activity. They can try it all.
Our student-athletes compete in eleven MSHSAA-regulated sports — and as a no-cut school, everyone gets the chance to play. Barstow teams win conference, district and state titles, and many athletes continue to play at the collegiate level. 
Through community service, leadership and character development and long-standing traditions that build community, students learn empathy, resilience and collaboration.

Experience Barstow at Our Spring Open Houses 

Ready to discover why families throughout Kansas City choose The Barstow School for their children's middle school and high school education? We invite you to visit our campus and experience our vibrant community firsthand at our upcoming spring open houses.
At these events, you'll:
  • Tour our campus and IDEA Space STEAM learning center.
  • Meet our exceptional faculty and current students.
  • Learn about our comprehensive college preparatory curriculum.
  • Discover our athletics, arts, and robotics programs.
  • Experience the school’s culture grounded in respect, care, personality and connection. 
The time is now. With limited openings available in select grades, parents and students should submit an application and supporting materials soon to secure a place at Kansas City's premier independent school.
  • Discover: Register for an admission open house on March 4, April 1 or April 22. 
  • Apply: Limited openings in select middle and upper school grades.
  • Enroll: Our experienced admissions team will answer your questions and help you at each step of the enrollment. 
Your child deserves a school where they'll be challenged academically, supported personally and prepared thoroughly for college and beyond. Join the Barstow community and discover the difference that makes Barstow the right fit for your family —  where you belong.
Back

    • The right fit in middle and upper school includes academics, athletics, extracurricular activities — and a place where each student is part of a community that supports well-being and belonging. That's The Barstow School.

    • Senior Carlos Salazar, supported by our experienced College Counselors, is a National Merit and Coca-Cola Scholars finalist.

    • Student leaders reguarly meet and host discussions with award-winning authors and other distinguished guests.

    • Culture Fest, an annual celebration of our diverse community, brings together morethan 30 cultures and student groups for a day of global learning.

    • Our Knights athletes routinely bring home conference, district and state championships.

    • No-cut sports means everyone in middle and high school gets a chance to be part of a team.

    • Our students have daily access to IDEA Space KC, a community STEAM learning center operated by Barstow.

    • Student life includes fun traditions including Powder Puff football, annual class competitions and traditions like Tree Day and Harvest Festival.

    • Middle and upper school musicals, choral and instrumental music, ceramics and fine arts are part of a robust arts education.

    • "Lifers" are Barstow seniors who have attended the School for at least 13 consecutive years.

The Barstow School

Fax: 816-942-3227

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