Kansas City, October 11, 2025
News Summary
Pembroke Hill School has been named the best elementary school in the Kansas City area, according to the latest Niche rankings for the 2026 school year. The school achieved an A+ overall rating, reflecting its academic excellence and reputation. With a competitive tuition structure and a prime location near Loose Park and The Country Club Plaza, it has become a prime choice for families. Following Pembroke Hill, Lakewood Elementary and Cedar Hill Elementary ranked second and third, respectively, among the top local educational institutions.
Kansas City has bestowed honor upon Pembroke Hill School as the best elementary school according to the recent Niche rankings released for the 2026 school year. This esteemed ranking was made public in September 2025 and is based on data compiled from multiple sources, including reviews from parents of current and former students.
Pembroke Hill School, a private institution located at 400 W. 51st St., near Loose Park and The Country Club Plaza, received an overall A+ grade from Niche, including an A+ in the academic category, solidifying its reputation for academic excellence. In addition to its local accolades, Pembroke Hill is ranked No. 170 among K-12 private schools across the United States.
The school’s tuition reflects its premium status, with rates set at $23,785 for kindergarten and $25,535 for grades 1-5. The school’s impressive rankings have made it a sought-after option for families in the Kansas City area.
Following Pembroke Hill in the local rankings is Lakewood Elementary School, which is placed second in the Kansas City area. Lakewood, located at 14600 Lamar Ave., also received an A+ rating. Nationally, it is considered the 175th-best public school. Furthermore, Cedar Hill Elementary School takes the third spot, situated at 9100 W. 165th St. and ranked 314th in the nation, also boasting an A+ rating.
Continuing with local rankings, the Barstow School ranks as the sixth-best elementary school within Kansas City and is recognized for its A+ rating. This private school is located at 11511 State Line Road, with tuition beginning at $19,500 for kindergarten, $22,500 for grades 1-4, and $23,000 for the fifth grade. Many of the top-ranked elementary schools are part of the Blue Valley Unified School District.
Among public schools, James Walker Elementary School, located in Blue Springs, ranks as No. 16 and is the first school on the Missouri side to make the list, affiliated with the Blue Springs R-IV School District and receiving an A grade. Franklin Smith Elementary School, also in Blue Springs and part of the same district, is ranked No. 22 and has received an A grade as well.
These rankings from Niche have attracted attention and interest among parents looking for quality educational options for their children. The rankings include a comprehensive listing of both private and public schools, available for interested parents to view online.
In summary, Pembroke Hill School has emerged as the best elementary school in the Kansas City area, exemplifying academic excellence and attracting families willing to invest in quality education for their children.
FAQ
What school is ranked as the best elementary school in the Kansas City area for 2026?
Pembroke Hill School is ranked as the best elementary school in the Kansas City area for the 2026 school year.
What is the tuition for Pembroke Hill School?
Tuition for kindergarten at Pembroke Hill School is $23,785, while tuition for grades 1-5 is $25,535.
Where is Pembroke Hill School located?
Pembroke Hill School is located at 400 W. 51st St., near Loose Park and The Country Club Plaza.
Key Features Comparison Chart
| School Name | Rank (KC Area) | Location | Overall Rating | Tuition (Kindergarten) | Tuition (Grades 1-5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pembroke Hill School | 1 | 400 W. 51st St. | A+ | $23,785 | $25,535 |
| Lakewood Elementary School | 2 | 14600 Lamar Ave. | A+ | N/A | N/A |
| Cedar Hill Elementary School | 3 | 9100 W. 165th St. | A+ | N/A | N/A |
| Barstow School | 6 | 11511 State Line Road | A+ | $19,500 | $22,500 (Grades 1-4), $23,000 (5th Grade) |
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Additional Resources
- Kansas City News Article
- Wikipedia: Kansas City
- Missouri Independent Article
- Google Search: Missouri charter schools
- KMBC News Article
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- KCTV5 News Article
- Encyclopedia Britannica: school safety
- KSHB News Article
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Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER
The KANSAS CITY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKansasCity.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Kansas City, Jackson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as American Royal World Series of Barbecue, Dia De Los Muertos, and Planet Anime Kansas City. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Kansas City, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Children's Mercy Hospital, Government Employees Health Association, and AMC Entertainment. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREStLouis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Missouri's dynamic landscape.
