Highlands Elem

Highlands Elementary School, located in the Mission/Fairway area of Johnson County, is a highly regarded public school within the Shawnee Mission School District (SMSD). Serving students from Pre-K through 6th grade, the school is known for its strong sense of community and academic rigor. It operates with a focus on fostering a supportive learning environment that encourages both intellectual growth and social-emotional development. As part of the Shawnee Mission system, Highlands benefits from the district’s comprehensive resources, professional staff development, and a curriculum aligned with state and national standards.

The school is deeply integrated into the surrounding residential neighborhood, often serving as a central hub for local families. With an active Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) and a long-standing reputation for high levels of parent involvement, Highlands maintains a collaborative culture that supplements classroom instruction with diverse extracurricular opportunities. Families who choose Highlands often highlight its commitment to inclusive education and its dedication to preparing students for the transition into the Shawnee Mission middle and high school pathways.