News Summary
The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas has placed Phil Baniewicz, president of Bishop Miege High School, on administrative leave due to serious allegations of inappropriate behavior with a minor. Following new allegations, Baniewicz is restricted from active ministry and participating in any youth activities. Archbishop Shawn McKnight supports the decision, emphasizing community safety and encouraging reports to civil authorities. The Archdiocese has appointed an interim president while investigations continue, as advocates demand accountability and transparency surrounding the allegations against Baniewicz.
Kansas City, Kansas – The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas has officially placed Phil Baniewicz, president of Bishop Miege High School, on administrative leave and restricted him from all active ministry due to serious allegations of inappropriate behavior with a minor. This decision, announced on June 17, 2025, followed new information received by the Archdiocese after Baniewicz was initially placed on leave on June 6, 2025.
These restrictions prohibit Baniewicz from participating in any youth ministry activities or engaging in volunteer work within Catholic parishes, schools, or events in the Archdiocese. He is also barred from representing the Church in any official capacity, including ministerial or leadership roles, such as in the Life Teen youth ministry program.
The move to place Baniewicz on leave was supported by Archbishop Shawn McKnight and aims to uphold the safety and well-being of the school community. Additionally, Baniewicz has agreed to an archdiocesan safety plan, which requires him to avoid any contact with individuals who have made allegations against him or potential witnesses.
The Archdiocese has notified civil authorities regarding these new allegations; however, the specific law enforcement agencies involved have not been disclosed. While the District Attorney’s office has stated that it is not currently conducting an investigation into Baniewicz, it emphasized the importance of reporting any claims directly to law enforcement alongside the Kansas Department of Children and Families (DCF).
As of June 17, 2025, both the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office and the Roeland Park Police Department confirmed that they are not actively investigating Baniewicz. Meanwhile, the Kansas DCF remains available for reports, which can be made 24/7 through their hotline at 1-800-922-5330.
In light of the situation, the Archdiocese has appointed an interim president, Joe Schramp, to oversee Bishop Miege High School during the investigation process. Archbishop McKnight has expressed a commitment to ensuring a safe environment for children and youth, acknowledging the profound impact this situation has on the community. He has also requested prayers for everyone affected, particularly those who may have been harmed.
Victims’ advocates, especially those who have previously accused Baniewicz of misconduct, are urging for accountability and thorough investigations. The Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAP) has been vocal about the Archdiocese’s lack of transparency, calling for clearer reporting of allegations to law enforcement to protect potential victims.
Baniewicz’s history reveals past allegations of sexual misconduct at other educational institutions, leading to previous investigations. The current restrictions against him are deemed precautionary and will remain in place pending the outcome of the ongoing investigations related to the newest allegations. Reports have also surfaced detailing closed-door meetings where Baniewicz reportedly questioned students about their sexuality, raising further concerns about his conduct.
As the situation develops, the community is seeking assurance that all allegations will be handled with utmost seriousness and diligence, aiming to foster a safe environment for all students and staff at Bishop Miege High School.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Kansas City Celebrates Cultural Richness Through Festivals
Kansas City Braces for Intense Heat Wave This Weekend
Kansas City Braces for Severe Thunderstorms and Rising Heat
Bishop Miege High School President Placed on Leave Amid Allegations
Kansas City Braces for Unsettled Weather This Weekend
Community Voices Concerns at South Kansas City Alliance Meeting
Kansas City Residents Alarmed by Delayed 911 Response Times
Kansas City Experiences Unusual June Weather Patterns
Bishop Miege High School President Placed on Leave
Kansas City Man Charged with Rape and Sodomy of Minor
Additional Resources
- Fox4KC: Archdiocese of KCK Restricts Bishop Baniewicz
- Wikipedia: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas
- Kansas City Star: Opinion Article by Melinda Henneberger
- Google Search: Phil Baniewicz
- KSHB: Bishop Miege High School President Placed on Leave
- Google Scholar: Phil Baniewicz
- KMBC: KCK Bishop Miege President Restricted from Ministry
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Archdiocese
- MSN: Bishop Miege President Restricted from All Ministry
- Google News: Bishop Miege
