Best Schools in Sedalia

In this post, we will discuss best schools in Sedalia. Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions a parent can make for their child’s future. Whether you’re new to the area or a long-time resident, finding a school that offers strong academics, supportive teachers, and a safe environment is key. Sedalia, Missouri, is home to several excellent public and private schools that provide quality education and a range of extracurricular opportunities. In this guide, we’ll highlight some of the best schools in Sedalia to help you make an informed decision for your family.

Sacred Heart School | Best Schools in Sedalia

Sacred Heart School, along with its parish, was established in 1882 in Sedalia, Missouri. The church opened its doors in March of that year, and by October, the school began its first academic session. Initially, the school operated on the first floor of the original church building, which also served as a church and convent. Seventy-eight students were enrolled that first year, taught in just two classrooms by four Sisters of the Society of the Precious Blood. Grades one through four shared one room, while grades four through eight shared the other.

For 25 years, the children of the parish studied in that same building. As enrollment steadily increased, it became clear by 1906 that the small facility could no longer accommodate the growing number of students, which had reached 162. That same year, the parish purchased land across the street from Martha Smith and Sarah E. Cotton for $2,000 and began construction of a new school, which was completed at a cost of $20,000.

The new building opened in the fall of 1907 and offered far more than just classrooms. Its basement housed a kitchen, shower and restroom facilities, club rooms, and even a bowling alley. The second floor featured a parlor, a parish hall, and a smoking room. As student enrollment continued to grow, many of these auxiliary spaces were eventually converted into classrooms and storage areas. In 1928, the school expanded again by purchasing a small plot of land to the east for a playground. However, the onset of the Great Depression brought school developments to a halt for over a decade.

A significant milestone occurred in 1941 with the launch of Sacred Heart Parish High School. Though not the first Catholic high school in Sedalia — that title belonged to the private academy operated by the Sisters of St. Joseph at St. Patrick’s Parish from 1890 to 1905 — Sacred Heart’s high school was a response to long-standing parental concerns about providing Catholic education beyond the eighth grade. Plans for a separate building were set aside when Bishop O’Hara of Kansas City insisted the school be opened immediately. As a result, the high school was temporarily housed within the same building as the grade school.

The high school welcomed its first freshman class in September 1941, taught by Sister Rosetta. Each subsequent year, a new grade was added until a full high school program was in place by 1944.

By the mid-1940s, the school began employing lay teachers due to increasing enrollment and a limited number of Sisters available to teach. By the start of the 1967 academic year, the faculty included twelve Sisters and ten lay teachers.

In the years that followed, Sacred Heart School continued to grow and expand its facilities. A gymnasium was added in 1948, followed by new classrooms and a cafeteria in 1956. The state-of-the-art cafeteria was considered one of the best in Sedalia at the time. By 1963, enrollment reached its peak at 658 students, filling the school to capacity. The high demand for Catholic education continued into the late 1960s, with waiting lists for grade school admissions becoming common.

Mission

Guided by the tradition of the Missionaries of the Precious Blood, Sacred Heart School is committed to delivering a high-quality Catholic education to students of all faiths and economic backgrounds. Students have the opportunity to learn from a professional, dedicated faculty within a close-knit and faith-filled community. This mutual commitment fosters a spirit of service and helps students become a true reflection of Christ in the world.

Vision

Extraordinary Catholic Education. Through Christ. For All.

Sedalia Seventh-day Adventist Church School

Sedalia Seventh-day Adventist Church School, commonly referred to as Sedalia SDA School, is a private, Christian educational institution located just one mile east of Sedalia, Missouri, at 29531 Highway 50. Serving students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade, the school operates under the Iowa-Missouri Conference and is part of the worldwide Seventh-day Adventist education system, which includes over 7,500 schools around the globe.

Sedalia SDA School embraces a holistic educational philosophy, focusing on nurturing each child’s academic development, physical well-being, spiritual growth, and social responsibility. The school’s values are grounded in the Biblical verse 3 John 1:4: “That my children may walk in truth.”

The school maintains a high standard of excellence through:

Certified and degreed teachers who are committed to Christian principles
Small class sizes that allow for personalized attention
Modern technology, with computers in every classroom to support learning
Strong academic performance, with students consistently scoring above the national average on the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills

The mission of Sedalia SDA School is to provide a Christ-centered, safe, and high-quality education for students of all backgrounds. Faith-based values are integrated into every aspect of the school day, complementing the lessons and character development taught at home.

Parents and guardians value the school for more than academics — they appreciate its spiritually enriching environment, commitment to character building, and its welcoming, family-oriented atmosphere.

The academic year at Sedalia SDA School typically begins in mid-August and follows a calendar aligned with Adventist education standards. Families interested in enrollment or learning more about the school are encouraged to contact:

Principal: Jeffrey S. White
Phone: (660) 826‑8951
Location: 29531 Highway 50, Sedalia, MO 65301
Website: sedaliasdachurchschool.org

Why Families Choose Sedalia SDA School

Families choose Sedalia SDA School for its:

Faith-affirming curriculum rooted in Christian values
Consistent academic success, with students achieving high standardized test scores
Individualized instruction, made possible by small class sizes and attentive faculty
Focus on developing character, service, and responsibility, preparing students for a life of purpose

St. Paul’s Lutheran School – Christ-Centered Education Since 1883

Founded in 1883, St. Paul’s Lutheran School in Sedalia, Missouri has a long-standing tradition of providing faith-based, academically sound education. The school originally operated at 517 South Lafayette, at the site of the church’s first location. The first dedicated school building was added to the rear of the church and was formally dedicated on September 3, 1899.

In the early years, the school was led by the pastors of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. In 1885, Rev. C.F. Graebner taught a class of 35 students. By 1898, the first full-time teacher, H.F.W. Koch, was hired to meet the growing educational needs of the congregation.

As both the church and school community expanded, the congregation sought a more suitable location. Property was eventually acquired at the corner of Broadway and Massachusetts, where a new church was constructed and dedicated in 1928. The original church building was subsequently torn down to make room for a new school facility. Unfortunately, due to the economic pressures of the Great Depression, the school was forced to close its doors in 1931.

Why Families Choose St. Paul’s Lutheran School

Today, St. Paul’s Lutheran School is recognized for its strong Christian foundation, academic excellence, and commitment to nurturing the whole child—spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, and socially.

Key reasons why families choose St. Paul’s include:

A mission driven by the Gospel, with a focus on bringing hope and healing to students and their families
Leadership from a governing board committed to a clear vision and effective policies
Accreditation and adherence to or surpassing of state and national academic standards
A strong emphasis on Christian education and individualized academic support
A commitment to developing the whole person, not just academically but also spiritually and morally

Faculty & Faith Formation

St. Paul’s is staffed by highly qualified educators who lead by example as servant leaders with a passion for ministry. These educators:

Model Christian character and stewardship
Apply Law and Gospel appropriately in daily life and teaching
Share their personal faith journeys
Exhibit integrity, compassion, and spiritual discipline
Encourage both students and staff in their walk with Christ

Faith instruction is central to daily life at the school. Students engage in daily religious education, which includes dedicated religion classes and corporate chapel worship. The curriculum is built around materials published by Concordia Publishing House (CPH), ensuring theological accuracy and alignment with Lutheran teachings. All other classroom materials are selected from national publishers but are guided by Christian educators to ensure they bring honor and glory to Jesus Christ.

A Tradition of Faith and Excellence

For over a century, St. Paul’s Lutheran School has remained dedicated to providing an exceptional education grounded in Christian values. With a deep commitment to the spiritual and academic growth of every student, the school continues to be a beacon of faith, learning, and leadership in the Sedalia community.

Applewood Christian School

Applewood Christian School (ACS) is a private, K–12 educational institution dedicated to providing a Christ-centered, academically rigorous education in a nurturing and faith-friendly environment. Located in Sedalia, Missouri, the school partners with Christian families to equip students with the knowledge, character, and spiritual foundation needed for a lifetime of fruitful service and success.

At Applewood, small class sizes help foster meaningful, long-lasting relationships among students, built around shared values and a common faith. In a time when secular influences increasingly shape the public education system, ACS stands firm in its commitment to offer a safe, Biblically grounded alternative.

The purpose of Applewood Christian School is threefold:

To partner with Christian parents in the spiritual and academic development of their children
To provide quality education rooted in a Biblical worldview
To prepare students for a lifetime of fruitful Christian service

The school’s guiding Scripture, Psalm 1:1–3, beautifully illustrates its vision:

“Blessed is the man… his delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season… and whatever he does shall prosper.”

Vision Statement

Applewood Christian School welcomes children in grades K–12 whose parents—and in some cases the students themselves—are committed to a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. ACS operates as an extension of the Christian home, supporting parents in fulfilling their Biblical responsibility to educate their children (Deuteronomy 6:7–8).

The school’s curriculum reflects a God-centered worldview, affirming that God’s truth is the foundation for all truth. Teachers at ACS are not only highly qualified but also called to the ministry of Christian education. They intentionally integrate faith into academics, ensuring consistency between the instruction students receive at home, at church, and in the classroom.

Academic Philosophy

ACS upholds high academic standards while recognizing that each student is uniquely gifted by God. The school encourages students to:

Develop their God-given talents and intellect to the fullest (Luke 2:52; 1 Cor. 4:7)
Honor God through diligent effort, regardless of peer comparison (Col. 2:23; 2 Tim. 3:14)
Take responsibility for their own learning while being challenged to grow spiritually, intellectually, and emotionally

Applewood strives to ensure that no student “coasts” through their education. Instead, each child is encouraged to strive for excellence and experience the personal satisfaction of doing their best for the glory of God.

A Legacy of Success

Graduates of Applewood Christian School routinely go on to attend college and pursue careers in a variety of fields. They leave the school not only well-prepared academically but also grounded in their faith, with a strong moral compass and a heart for service.

Wildwood Montessori School

Wildwood Montessori School is dedicated to nurturing the innate capabilities of every student while instilling a lifelong love for learning. Grounded in the principles of the Montessori method, the school delivers personalized education that honors each child’s individuality and potential. With a deep commitment to respect, development, and discovery, Wildwood Montessori offers a safe and enriching environment for children to thrive.

A Vision Born from Passion

The story of Wildwood Montessori School began with the vision of Tisha Sparks, a passionate educator driven by the belief that every child deserves a supportive and inspiring space to grow. In 2020, Ms. Tisha founded Lil’ Sprouts Prep Academy in the main floor of her family’s home, determined to share the joy of learning through the Montessori approach. Within a year, the program had outgrown its original space and moved into its own dedicated location on Murphy Lane.

After obtaining her official Montessori credentials in 2023, Ms. Tisha envisioned a broader impact. The school set an ambitious goal to expand its offerings beyond preschool, aiming to serve families throughout Pettis County by adding programs for toddlers and elementary grades, eventually growing into a full K–8 institution.

In the same year, the school proudly received accreditation from the International Montessori Council, marking a significant milestone in its journey.

Looking Ahead

Wildwood Montessori is now preparing for a major transition—relocating to its permanent campus on Hammons Road in La Monte, with plans to open in Fall 2024. The new location will host approximately 50 students per year, providing a carefully structured learning experience tailored to each child’s needs.

A Whole-Child Approach to Learning

At the heart of Wildwood Montessori’s philosophy is a focus on whole-child development. The school encourages students to grow emotionally, socially, intellectually, and physically by engaging them in meaningful work and consistent routines.

Through Montessori-based classroom instruction and enrichment activities, students at Wildwood Montessori are guided to:

Build confidence and independence
Develop focus and persistence
Cultivate creativity and imagination
Strengthen sensory-motor and social skills
Foster a love for knowledge and order

Students engage in core subject areas including practical life, sensorial development, mathematics, language arts, and cultural studies, all within a nurturing, child-led environment. Teachers document and evaluate each child’s progress individually, in alignment with Montessori philosophy, ensuring that every learner is supported in their unique journey.

Wildwood Montessori School is more than just a school—it’s a growing community where children are respected, inspired, and empowered to become their best selves. As the school looks to the future, it remains committed to its mission: cultivating capable, confident, and compassionate learners through the power of Montessori education.

Skyline Elementary School

Skyline Elementary School, part of the Sedalia 200 School District, is located at 2505 W. 32nd Street in Sedalia, Missouri. Serving students from Kindergarten through 4th grade, the school was originally built in 1990 and currently enrolls approximately 489 students. With a student-teacher ratio of 14:1, Skyline fosters an environment where every child receives focused attention and academic support.

Mission & School Culture

Skyline Elementary is guided by a clear and heartfelt mission: to promote academic excellence within a safe and respectful environment where every student is valued and encouraged to succeed. The school’s motto, “Every Child Matters,” reflects its commitment to equity and high expectations for all. Staff members instill a “no excuses” mindset, motivating students to always do their best regardless of background or challenges.

Academic Excellence

Skyline consistently ranks in the top 30% of elementary schools across Missouri for both math and reading proficiency. The school boasts math proficiency rates of approximately 45–49%, and reading/language arts proficiency around 50–54%, both of which are above the state average. This academic strength is supported by a robust and structured curriculum aimed at preparing students for long-term educational success.

Student Support & Positive Behavior

To promote a strong sense of community and personal responsibility, Skyline implements a school-wide positive behavior support system (SW-PBS). Through its innovative “Tiger Stripes” incentive program, students are rewarded for demonstrating positive behaviors like respect, responsibility, safety, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

Programs & Services

Skyline Elementary offers a range of specialized programs and support services to meet diverse student needs, including:

Gifted & Talented education
Project Lead The Way STEM curriculum
ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) support
Partnerships with the Boys & Girls Club for after-school enrichment
In-classroom breakfast service
Comprehensive learning accommodations for various abilities

Student Demographics
The student body at Skyline is diverse, with approximately:

80% White
8% Hispanic
8% Multiracial
3% Black
1% Asian
About 46% of students qualify for free lunch and 6% for reduced lunch, reflecting the school’s inclusive approach to education regardless of socioeconomic status.

Leadership & Contact Information

The school is led by Principal Mrs. Kelly McFatrich, who is known for her approachable leadership and focus on student-centered education.

Phone: (660) 826‑8087
Email: mcfatrichk@sedalia200.org

School hours include drop-off beginning at 7:30 a.m., breakfast at 7:45 a.m., classes starting at 8:00 a.m., and dismissal at 3:16 p.m. Parent communications are available in multiple languages, including Spanish and Russian.

Conclusion

Skyline Elementary School stands as a strong educational institution in the Sedalia community, offering high academic standards, a positive school culture, and comprehensive support programs. Its commitment to nurturing every child’s potential makes it a standout choice for families in the region.