Blue Valley West High School
General Information
Overview
Blue Valley West High School, located in Overland Park, Kansas, is one of the premier public high schools within the Blue Valley Unified School District (USD 229). Established in the early 2000s, Blue Valley West has quickly risen to become a top-performing academic institution recognized both statewide and nationally for its excellence in education, athletics, and community engagement. The school serves students in grades 9–12 and offers a rigorous academic curriculum complemented by a wide range of extracurricular programs.
Blue Valley West emphasizes college and career readiness, leadership development, and civic responsibility, preparing students to become critical thinkers and global citizens. The school’s mission is to provide a supportive environment that encourages intellectual curiosity, creativity, and integrity. Known for its strong Advanced Placement (AP) program and award-winning performing arts and athletic teams, Blue Valley West has become a hub for well-rounded student development. Its modern facilities, dedicated staff, and innovative instructional strategies make it one of the most sought-after high schools in the Kansas City metropolitan area.
Contact Information
Address: 16200 Antioch Road, Overland Park, KS 66085
Phone Number: (913) 239-3700
Email Address: bvwest@bluevalleyk12.org
School Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 2001 |
| Motto | “Tradition, Excellence, Success” |
| Type | Public High School |
| Grades | 9–12 |
| District | Blue Valley Unified School District 229 |
| Principal | Dr. Jason McAfee |
| Mascot | Jaguars |
| School Colors | Red, Black, and Silver |
Blue Valley West High School Rankings
| Category | Ranking |
|---|---|
| Kansas High Schools | Top 5% |
| National Ranking | Top 10% |
| College Readiness Index | 9.4 / 10 |
Blue Valley West High School Academics
Blue Valley West High School Faculties / Departments
- English and Language Arts Department
- Mathematics Department
- Science Department
- Social Studies Department
- Fine Arts and Performing Arts Department
- World Languages Department
- Physical Education and Health Department
- Career and Technical Education Department
- Counseling and Student Support Services
- Special Education Department
Blue Valley West High School Courses and Programs / Majors
- Advanced Placement (AP) Courses (over 20 offered)
- Honors English and Math Programs
- STEM and Engineering Pathways
- Business and Marketing Education
- Fine Arts (Choir, Band, Theater, Visual Arts)
- Foreign Language Programs (Spanish, French, German)
- Technology and Computer Science Courses
- Journalism and Broadcasting
- Leadership and Civic Engagement Programs
Online Learning
Blue Valley West High School offers robust online learning opportunities through the Blue Valley Virtual Education Program. Students may take blended or fully virtual courses to accommodate different learning styles, scheduling needs, or enrichment interests. These include AP online courses, credit recovery, and specialized electives. Digital learning platforms allow students to collaborate, communicate, and complete coursework remotely while maintaining rigorous academic standards. Online options have proven beneficial for students pursuing dual enrollment or advanced studies outside traditional classroom hours. The flexibility of online instruction supports the school’s mission to meet every learner’s needs.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT (Composite) | 1320 |
| ACT (Composite) | 27 |
| AP Exam Pass Rate | 85% |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Blue Valley West High School maintains an impressive graduation rate of 97%, among the highest in the state. Its retention rate also exceeds 95%, reflecting strong academic support systems and an engaged student body. The school provides tutoring programs, academic interventions, and counseling services to ensure that all students are on track for graduation. Its focus on academic excellence, combined with extracurricular engagement, fosters student motivation and long-term success both in college and future careers.
Blue Valley West High School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Blue Valley West High School serves students within the Blue Valley School District boundaries. Most enrolled students maintain a GPA range of 3.5–4.0, reflecting the school’s competitive academic environment. While SAT and ACT scores are not required for admission to the school itself, they are encouraged for college preparation.
Blue Valley West High School Acceptance Rate
| Category | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| Zoned Students | 100% |
| Out-of-District / Transfer Students | Approximately 60% |
Blue Valley West High School Application Requirements
Enrollment at Blue Valley West High School is primarily based on residential zoning within USD 229. Families must provide proof of residence, birth certificates, immunization records, and academic transcripts from prior schools. Transfer or special program applicants may also be asked to submit additional documentation such as recommendation letters or academic performance reports. The school’s inclusive admissions process is designed to ensure that every student receives an opportunity to thrive within a supportive and academically rigorous environment.
Application Process
- Complete the district’s online enrollment application
- Provide proof of residence and required documents
- Submit academic transcripts or report cards
- Attend orientation and meet counselors for schedule planning
- Finalize enrollment and receive class placement
Blue Valley West High School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Enrollment Opens | March 15 |
| Transfer Application Deadline | May 1 |
| Orientation for New Students | August 2 |
| First Day of School | August 12 |
Essay Prompt
For specialized programs such as leadership or honors placement, students may be asked to answer: “What motivates you to succeed academically and contribute to your school community?”
Blue Valley West High School Scholarships
While Blue Valley West does not offer direct scholarships, it provides guidance for students applying to national, state, and local scholarships. The school’s counseling department works with families to connect them to merit-based and need-based opportunities. Many seniors receive academic, athletic, and artistic scholarships upon graduation. Blue Valley West’s focus on college readiness ensures that students are well-prepared to compete for scholarship awards at leading universities.
Blue Valley West High School Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Free (Public School) |
| Technology Fee | $50 per year |
| Course Material Fee | $30–$60 |
| Extracurricular Fee | $25–$75 depending on activity |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
| Demographic | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Female | 50% |
| Male | 50% |
| White | 70% |
| Asian | 15% |
| Hispanic | 8% |
| African American | 5% |
| Other | 2% |
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Blue Valley West High School is committed to providing equitable education opportunities for all students. Approximately 8% of students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch, and the school offers multiple resources for low-income families, including tutoring, technology access, and academic assistance. The Special Education Department provides individualized education plans (IEPs), resource support, and inclusion programs to ensure that students with disabilities receive appropriate accommodations. Teachers and counselors collaborate to create an inclusive and encouraging learning atmosphere that promotes both academic and personal growth for every student.
Student Body
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Students | 1,400 |
| Average Class Size | 23 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 15:1 |
| Attendance Rate | 96% |
University Diversity
Blue Valley West High School celebrates diversity through inclusive programs, cultural clubs, and schoolwide initiatives that promote respect and understanding. The school hosts multicultural events and student-led diversity panels that encourage conversations about global awareness. With a diverse student population, Blue Valley West embraces different cultural traditions and fosters mutual respect. The administration actively promotes representation among faculty and student leadership, ensuring an equitable learning environment where every student feels valued and included.
Average Earnings
Although Blue Valley West does not track graduate earnings, its alumni often pursue higher education at prestigious universities such as the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, and various Ivy League institutions. The strong academic preparation and career guidance provided by the school lead to successful career outcomes. Many alumni go on to pursue professions in engineering, business, education, and healthcare, with average earnings well above national averages for similar career paths.
Blue Valley West High School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Blue Valley West High School employs over 100 certified teachers, counselors, and administrative professionals dedicated to providing a world-class education. The staff-to-student ratio ensures individualized attention and academic support. Teachers participate in ongoing professional development to remain at the forefront of educational best practices. Counselors and administrators work together to foster a safe and inclusive environment that promotes mental health, academic achievement, and personal growth.
Faculty Profiles
The faculty at Blue Valley West High School includes award-winning educators, AP-certified instructors, and experienced department heads. Many teachers hold advanced degrees and certifications in their fields. The faculty has been recognized at district and state levels for excellence in teaching, curriculum innovation, and student mentorship. The school’s leadership team is deeply committed to academic rigor, community involvement, and continuous improvement.
Blue Valley West High School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Blue Valley West High School features a modern campus equipped with advanced technology, science labs, athletic facilities, and performing arts spaces. Students have access to a well-stocked library, digital learning center, and outdoor athletic complexes. Extracurricular activities include over 40 clubs ranging from debate and robotics to theater and environmental awareness. While the school does not offer housing, it cultivates a strong sense of community through parent involvement, student leadership organizations, and school spirit events such as homecoming, pep rallies, and charity drives.
Transportation
Transportation is provided by the Blue Valley School District, with safe and efficient bus routes covering the surrounding residential areas. The school campus is easily accessible via major roads and includes designated parking areas for students and staff. Bicycle racks and pedestrian-friendly paths encourage environmentally conscious commuting. Blue Valley West prioritizes transportation safety and punctuality to ensure students arrive ready to learn each day.