CHRISTA MCAULIFFE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Christa McAuliffe Elem is a public elementary school that is part of the Shawnee Mission Pub Sch school district, located in Shawnee Mission, KS with about 405 students offering grade levels from Pre-Kindergarten to 6th Grade. With about 27 teachers, Christa McAuliffe Elem has a student/teacher ratio of about 15:1. The national average for public schools is about 15:1. A lower student/teacher ratio is a key factor that determines how much a teacher can devote his/her time to each individual student thus improving, or reducing (in the event of a higher student/teacher ratio) the attention each student is given for their educational needs.

Christa McAuliffe Elementary School, located in Shawnee, Kansas, is a notable institution within the Shawnee Mission School District (SMSD). Named after the teacher and astronaut who perished in the 1986 Space Shuttle *Challenger* disaster, the school operates with a focus on academic excellence, community involvement, and honoring the legacy of its namesake. It serves a diverse student population and is well-regarded for its commitment to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and forward-thinking learning environment.

The school emphasizes a well-rounded education that incorporates both rigorous core academics and opportunities for social-emotional growth. As part of the Shawnee Mission School District, McAuliffe Elementary benefits from the district’s focus on personalized learning, modern classroom technology, and strong partnerships between educators and parents. With its convenient location on West 83rd Street, the school serves as a central hub for the local neighborhood, providing students with the resources, extracurricular activities, and teacher-led support necessary to prepare them for success in middle school and beyond.

For more information, contact Christa McAuliffe Elem at (913) 993-3500 or visit the school personally to speak with a faculty or administrative member about any specific questions you may have.