Desmond AbahWhen it comes to choosing a boarding school, Kansas may not be the first state that comes to mind, but it is home to some excellent institutions that combine strong academics, extracurricular programs, and character-building environments. Parents and students looking for top-notch education in the Midwest often find Kansas boarding schools appealing for their supportive communities and holistic approaches to learning. In this article, we explore the top 2 boarding schools in Kansas and their fees, while also highlighting their unique features, academic strengths, and campus life.
Top Boarding Schools In Kansas And Fees
1. Maur Hill–Mount Academy (Atchison, Kansas)
Maur Hill–Mount Academy, often referred to as MH–MA, is a private Catholic, coeducational boarding and day school in Atchison. Established in 1863, the school has a long-standing tradition of academic excellence, faith-centered education, and leadership development. It welcomes students from across the United States and more than 15 different countries, making it one of the most culturally diverse boarding schools in Kansas.
Academics and Programs
MH–MA offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving. Students are encouraged to excel in core subjects such as mathematics, science, humanities, and foreign languages. Advanced Placement (AP) courses and honors classes are also available, providing motivated learners with the opportunity to challenge themselves academically and prepare for competitive colleges.
One of the standout features of MH–MA is its emphasis on leadership and character education. The school integrates Benedictine values into daily life, instilling discipline, respect, and service-oriented principles in its students. Small class sizes allow for personalized instruction, ensuring that every student receives the attention needed to thrive.
Campus Life and Extracurriculars
Maur Hill–Mount Academy offers a vibrant campus life that balances academics with extracurricular activities. Students can participate in a variety of clubs, including debate, student council, robotics, and international cultural groups. Athletics also play a major role, with sports programs such as basketball, soccer, track and field, volleyball, and cross country fostering teamwork and healthy lifestyles.
In addition to sports and clubs, the school organizes service projects, mission trips, and leadership retreats. These experiences enrich the boarding school journey by helping students grow spiritually, socially, and intellectually.
Tuition and Fees
The cost of attending Maur Hill–Mount Academy depends on whether the student is a boarding or day student.
- Boarding students: Approximately $29,000 – $32,000 per year (including tuition, room, and board).
- Day students: Around $10,000 – $12,000 per year.
Financial aid and scholarships are available to help make the school accessible to families from various backgrounds.
Why Choose MH–MA?
Parents often choose Maur Hill–Mount Academy for its nurturing environment, faith-based foundation, and commitment to preparing students for both college and life. The combination of strong academics, diverse student body, and supportive community makes it one of the best boarding schools in Kansas.
2. St. John’s Military School (Salina, Kansas – Legacy Option)
Although St. John’s Military School in Salina officially closed in 2019 after more than 131 years of service, it remains an important part of Kansas’s educational history. Many parents researching Kansas boarding schools come across St. John’s because of its legacy in shaping young men into disciplined, responsible leaders. For families still considering military-style education, nearby states like Missouri and Oklahoma host alternative schools that follow a similar model. However, for historical context and SEO purposes, it’s worth discussing what St. John’s represented and why it was once one of the top boarding schools in Kansas.
Academics and Character Formation
St. John’s offered a structured military-style education designed to instill discipline, leadership, and academic achievement. Students followed a college-preparatory curriculum while also engaging in military drills and leadership training. The combination of rigorous academics and personal development prepared cadets for higher education as well as future careers in the military, business, or public service.
Campus Life and Extracurriculars
The boarding experience at St. John’s was highly structured. Students participated in athletics, leadership organizations, and extracurricular clubs, all while adhering to a regimented daily schedule. This approach aimed to build responsibility, self-confidence, and resilience. Activities like marching band, honor guard, and community service projects helped cadets balance their academic life with personal growth opportunities.
Tuition and Fees (When Operational)
During its years of operation, St. John’s Military School charged approximately $22,000 – $25,000 per year for boarding students. This covered tuition, room, board, and uniforms. Like other private institutions, the school also offered scholarships and financial aid to eligible students.
Why St. John’s Legacy Matters
Although it is no longer enrolling students, St. John’s Military School remains a cornerstone in Kansas boarding school history. Many alumni continue to credit their success in life to the leadership skills, discipline, and values instilled during their time there. Families seeking a similar military boarding school experience may now consider schools in nearby states.
Related
- Top 2 Boarding Schools In Jacksonville And Fees
- Top 4 Boarding Schools In Iowa And Fees (2025)
- Top 3 Boarding Schools In Indiana And Fees (2025)
Conclusion
Kansas may not have a large number of boarding schools compared to states like Massachusetts or California, but the institutions it has offered—like Maur Hill–Mount Academy and the legacy of St. John’s Military School—demonstrate a strong commitment to holistic education. For families looking for boarding schools in Kansas, Maur Hill–Mount Academy stands out as a current, thriving option that provides academic excellence, character development, and a supportive environment for students from around the world.
When selecting a boarding school, parents should consider factors such as academic offerings, campus life, extracurricular opportunities, tuition costs, and financial aid availability. Visiting the campus, speaking with faculty, and engaging with current students can also provide valuable insight into whether the school is the right fit for your child.
Ultimately, Kansas’s top boarding schools prepare students not only for college but also for a lifetime of success by shaping their character, leadership abilities, and academic skills.