Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions

About KCA

When was KCA founded?

KCA was founded in 1984 as a commitment to continue the Loretto School’s unique philosophy of education. In 1985, KCA was granted accreditation as an independent, college preparatory school, grades six through 12, by the North Central Association. Subsequent annual reviews have resulted in full accreditation through Middle States Association of Colleges and School Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools. For more than 30 years KCA has successfully educated students in the Kansas City community.



What is the technology use like at KCA?

KCA is powered by Google Fiber and students use Chrome Books throughout the day to conduct school work and research for various projects they may be working on. There are also desktop PCs in the computer lab and library for students use. We also have a Mac lab for student and coursework in publishing, media creation, and art collaboration.



Is KCA accredited?

KCA is accredited through Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools. Accreditation is the affirmation that a school or other educational institution is providing the level of quality in its educational programs, services, activities, and/or resources expected by its community of stakeholders and endorsed by the education world. When the Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (CESS) accredit a school, they certify that the school meets the prescribed standards of quality of the Middle States Association. To become accredited, or have its accreditation renewed, by the Middle States Association, a school must demonstrate that it meets the appropriate Standards for Accreditation. Recognizing the unique characteristics of schools and other educational institutions, the Middle States Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools have adopted Standards for Accreditation appropriate for each type of member institution: Standards for Accreditation 2016



How many KCA graduates go on to college?

Though 100% of our students that apply are accepted to institutions of higher education, 90% of KCA graduates actually go on to attend higher education within two years of graduation.



Where do KCA students come from?

KCA draws students from all over the Kansas City metropolitan area.



What courses are available at KCA?

KCA offers a variety of courses for both Middle School and High School in English, social studies, science, mathematics, art, music, business, foreign languages, physical education, nutrition, theater and many more.



Does KCA offer lunch?

KCA partners with Bistro Kids to provide an amazing farm-to-table lunch program. Each day Chef Mark and his team prepare a full salad bar, main course, vegetarian entree and two soups, one of which is vegetarian. Ingredients are locally sourced as frequently as possible, with some items coming from our own garden out back. The lunch program is available for $360 per year or $5/lunch.



Admissions & Enrollment

Is there an entrance exam?

Prospective students are asked to do three things as part of our admissions process: visit KCA in person, take an assessment test, and interview with our principal. It is important that both parents and students understand our philosophy. Following the visit, admission is based on a composite evaluation of academic potential, past academic performance, personal goals, attendance records, test data, evidence of personal responsibility (job, community service, past school activities), special needs, interests, talents, and evidence of intellectual curiosity.



Is financial aid available?

Yes. Families who qualify may receive need-based assistance up to 40% of the cost of tuition. To be considered for financial aid, families must apply online through the FACTS system.



If I transfer to/from another school, will my credits be accepted?

Most credits transfer if the student has attended an accredited high school. Students may be asked to make up course work required for graduation.



When do I register my student(s) to attend?

New student enrollment opens December 1. Current student re-enrollment opens February 2018. Priority enrollment ends May 1. Immediate enrollment consideration is open year-round on a space available basis.



Curriculum & Programs

How often will my student participate in offsite field work?

It varies, but generally the middle school students leave campus about every other week. The high school students do field work and off-site learning on a project basis. Additionally, experts and community partners are often invited to join the students on site at KCA.



What additional student enrichment programs are available?

KCA offers student activities ranging from student representative positions on the Board of Directors to Student Council, social justice expeditions, Music Theory, KCA Singers and student-created clubs such as anime, chess, and ping pong.



What are the fine arts programs offered at KCA?

KCA has excellent music, theater and arts programs. Music: Music at KCA ranges from studio band, song writing, and KCA Singers (an after school A capella group), to a community concert series. Theater: The KCA Theatre Department provides a process-based arts education, with the goal of helping students discover their passion, self-expression, and confidence. Art: Courses are offered in art history, ceramics, drawing, animation, photography, and so much more. The art department works in collaboration with places like The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Kansas City Art Institute, and community art exhibits.



Define "Interdisciplinary Curriculum"

In Middle School, English and social studies are presented in a coordinated curriculum. Each core subject retains its identity and particular skill set, but teachers take every opportunity to establish, broaden, and deepen connections among the disciplines. These coordinated subjects are presented within the context of an overarching topic of study that may last from an academic quarter to an entire semester.



All

Is KCA accredited?

KCA is accredited through Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools. Accreditation is the affirmation that a school or other educational institution is providing the level of quality in its educational programs, services, activities, and/or resources expected by its community of stakeholders and endorsed by the education world. When the Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (CESS) accredit a school, they certify that the school meets the prescribed standards of quality of the Middle States Association. To become accredited, or have its accreditation renewed, by the Middle States Association, a school must demonstrate that it meets the appropriate Standards for Accreditation. Recognizing the unique characteristics of schools and other educational institutions, the Middle States Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools have adopted Standards for Accreditation appropriate for each type of member institution: Standards for Accreditation 2016



Define "Interdisciplinary Curriculum"

In Middle School, English and social studies are presented in a coordinated curriculum. Each core subject retains its identity and particular skill set, but teachers take every opportunity to establish, broaden, and deepen connections among the disciplines. These coordinated subjects are presented within the context of an overarching topic of study that may last from an academic quarter to an entire semester.



How many KCA graduates go on to college?

Though 100% of our students that apply are accepted to institutions of higher education, 90% of KCA graduates actually go on to attend higher education within two years of graduation.



Where do KCA students come from?

KCA draws students from all over the Kansas City metropolitan area.



What courses are available at KCA?

KCA offers a variety of courses for both Middle School and High School in English, social studies, science, mathematics, art, music, business, foreign languages, physical education, nutrition, theater and many more.



Does KCA offer lunch?

KCA offers an amazing farm-to-table lunch program. Each day Chef Mark and his team prepare a full salad bar, main course, vegetarian entree and two soups, one of which is vegetarian. Ingredients are locally sourced as frequently as possible, with some items coming from our own garden out back.



What are the fine arts programs offered at KCA?

KCA has excellent music, theater and arts programs. Music: Music at KCA ranges from studio band, song writing, and KCA Singers (an after school A capella group), to a community concert series. Theater: The KCA Theatre Department provides a process-based arts education, with the goal of helping students discover their passion, self-expression, and confidence. Art: Courses are offered in art history, ceramics, drawing, animation, photography, and so much more. The art department works in collaboration with places like The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Kansas City Art Institute, and community art exhibits.



When was KCA founded?

KCA was founded in 1984 as a commitment to continue the Loretto School’s unique philosophy of education. Our roots are in the Loretto educational tradition, known for providing excellent academic education, helping students deepen their values, inspiring lifelong learning, and fostering concern for the welfare of others. In 1985, KCA was granted accreditation as an independent, college preparatory school (grades six through 12) by the North Central Association. Subsequent annual reviews have resulted in full accreditation through Middle States Association of Colleges and School Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools.



What is the technology use like at KCA?

KCA is powered by Google Fiber and students use Chrome Books throughout the day to conduct school work and research for various projects they may be working on. There are also desktop PCs in the computer lab and library for students use. We also have a Mac lab for student and coursework in publishing, media creation, and art collaboration.



Is financial aid available?

Yes. Families who qualify may receive need-based assistance up to 45% of the cost of tuition. To be considered for financial aid, families must apply online through the FACTS system.



If I transfer to/from another school, will my credits be accepted?

Most credits transfer if the student has attended an accredited high school. Students may be asked to make up course work required for graduation.



Is there an entrance exam?

Prospective students are asked to do three things as part of our admissions process: visit KCA in person, take an assessment test, and interview with our principal. It is important that both parents and students understand our philosophy. Following the visit, admission is based on a composite evaluation of academic potential, past academic performance, personal goals, attendance records, test data, evidence of personal responsibility (job, community service, past school activities), special needs, interests, talents, and evidence of intellectual curiosity.



When do I register my student(s) to attend?

New student enrollment opens December 1. Current student re-enrollment opens in February. Priority enrollment ends May 1. Immediate enrollment consideration is open year-round on a space available basis.



How often will my student participate in offsite field work?

It varies, but generally the middle school students leave campus about every other week. The high school students do field work and off-site learning on a project basis. Additionally, experts and community partners are often invited to join the students on site at KCA.



What additional student enrichment programs are available?

KCA offers student activities ranging from student representative positions on the Board of Directors to Student Council, social justice expeditions, Music Theory, KCA Singers and student-created clubs such as anime, chess, and ping pong.