2025 Top-Rated Public School Districts in the Kansas City Metro Area: A Guide for Parents

Choosing the right school district is one of the most important decisions parents can make for their children. Fortunately, the Kansas City metro area boasts several top-rated public school districts that cater to a wide range of academic, athletic, and extracurricular interests. According to Niche.com’s 2025 rankings, these districts offer exceptional educational opportunities and environments that foster student growth. Here’s a look at the top 10 public school districts in the Kansas City metro area:

1. Blue Valley Unified School District (Overland Park, KS)
   Ranking #1, Blue Valley is known for its exceptional academics and focus on student success. With 36 schools and over 22,000 students, it consistently earns an A+ rating. Parents rave about the district’s commitment to education, although some warn of misleading negative reviews online.

2. Lee's Summit R-VII School District (Lee's Summit, MO)
   Lee’s Summit takes pride in its strong academic and athletic programs, with students feeling well-prepared for college. A total of 27 schools serve nearly 18,000 students, making it the second-best district in the metro area, earning an A rating.

3. Blue Springs R-IV School District (Blue Springs, MO)
   With 22 schools and over 14,000 students, Blue Springs ranks third in the area. This district receives high marks for the dedication of its teachers, who build strong mentoring relationships with their students.

4. De Soto Unified School District (De Soto, KS)
   Known for its personalized approach to education, De Soto’s 13 schools cater to just over 7,400 students. Parents commend the district’s staff for their caring attitudes and strong preparation for high school, making De Soto the fourth-best district in the region.

5. Olathe Public Schools (Olathe, KS)
   Serving the largest student population of any district in the top 10, Olathe Public Schools educates over 29,000 students across 51 schools. The district excels in offering diverse academic programs and extracurricular activities, earning it a solid A grade.

6. Shawnee Mission School District (Shawnee Mission, KS)
   With 45 schools and over 26,000 students, Shawnee Mission is known for its vibrant school spirit and community involvement. Despite some challenges, like occasional disciplinary issues, it remains one of the top districts in the area, earning an A rating.

7. Park Hill School District (Kansas City, MO)
   Park Hill offers a rich cultural experience, with a strong emphasis on academics and extracurricular activities. The district, which serves nearly 12,000 students across 20 schools, has a well-rounded approach to education and a reputation for a welcoming environment.

8. Liberty School District (Liberty, MO)
   Liberty has something for everyone, from strong athletic programs to numerous internship opportunities. With 20 schools serving over 12,000 students, Liberty ranks eighth in the area with a high satisfaction rate among students and parents alike.

9. Basehor-Linwood Unified School District (Basehor, KS)
   Despite being a smaller district, with just seven schools and around 3,000 students, Basehor-Linwood earns praise for its supportive teachers and balanced focus on academics and athletics. The district ranks ninth in the Kansas City metro area.

10. North Kansas City School District (Kansas City, MO)
    Rounding out the top 10, North Kansas City’s 34 schools serve over 20,000 students. Known for its inclusivity and commitment to safety, the district earns an A- rating from students who feel welcomed and supported throughout their educational journey.

Each of these districts has its own unique strengths, and parents can feel confident knowing that the Kansas City metro area offers top-tier educational options. Whether you're focused on academics, sports, or a well-rounded school experience, there's a district here that will meet your family’s needs.

For more detailed reviews and rankings, visit Niche.com for the full list.