Discover, Apply and Enroll at Barstow — Where You Belong
Families searching for the best independent school in Kansas City are often looking for more than strong academics. They want a school where their child is known, challenged, and supported — a place where they belong. At The Barstow School, belonging is not a promise we make lightly; it is the result of a connected learning community, exceptional teaching and a mission that has guided us since 1884.
Barstow is intentionally sized to ensure every student receives individualized attention. Our class sizes are capped so that each bright, curious learner we admit benefits from a personalized, rigorous college-prep education. Students are encouraged to lean into their strengths, explore their interests and stretch their talents, whether that means competing in athletics, performing on stage, creating original work or innovating through hands-on learning.
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A College-Prep Education Built for Today — and Tomorrow
As one of the top independent schools in Kansas City, Barstow blends academic rigor with real-world relevance. Our curriculum balances advanced coursework in language arts and the humanities with forward-thinking STEAM education. Students graduate prepared not only for college, but for meaningful, engaged lives beyond the classroom.
An important part of this approach is the Dan & Cassidy Towriss IDEA Space KC, Barstow’s dedicated STEAM learning center. Beginning in early childhood, students learn to apply classroom knowledge in authentic ways — designing, building, testing and problem-solving in the makerspace, technology lab and fabrication workshop. From preschool through upper school, Barstow students are encouraged to think critically, collaborate creatively and innovate boldly.
Rooted in Tradition, Recognized for Excellence
Barstow’s mission has remained constant for more than 140 years: “To provide sound scholarship and promote the symmetrical development of mind, body and character.” That mission continues to shape everything we do today. Our commitment to academic excellence, character development and whole-child growth has earned Barstow repeated recognition as a top independent school in the Kansas/Missouri region and the nation by Niche.com — including high marks for our college counseling and signature programs including debate, robotics, theatre and engineering pathways.
Now Is the Time to Discover Barstow
Our admission office is open all year long as families explore school options and make important decisions about their children’s education. We are currently hosting monthly admission open houses. We encourage interested families to:
- Register for an upcoming admission open house.
- Mark your calendar for early childhood or kindergarten roundup dates in February.
With limited openings in select grades right now, you can still choose Barstow for your child in 2026-2027. Or you can start the process of exploring and enrolling later. The Barstow School — a place where students are challenged, supported, and inspired every day. A place where you belong.
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Members of the Class of 2027 organized an all-school welcome on the first day of the new school year.
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