THE BARSTOW SCHOOL • 2025–2026
IMPACT REPORT WH ER E YO U B ELO N G
CONTENTS 4
Our Year in Review
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Academic Intersections
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2025–2026 Donor Report
16 Designed for Discovery 19 Big Ideas, Bold Stories 22 Green & White Gala 24 Barstow Arts Bloom 26 On a World Stage 27 Growing the Barstow Brand 29 A Legacy of Excellence 30 The Heritage Society 32 Gifts That Give Back 35 Alumni Community 46 The Class of 2026 48 A Season to Remember 50 Knights Highlights 52 Fond Farewells
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DEAR BARSTOW SUPPORTERS WHAT A JOY to have my first year at The Barstow School tuck in with an enthusiastic focus on the very bright horizon. I am filled with gratitude for the many individuals whose generosity continues to strengthen our community and advance our mission. This Impact Report is more than a summary of the past year — it is a celebration of what we have accomplished together. Every success highlighted in these pages is a direct reflection of the confidence you place in our students, our faculty, and our vision for the future.
challenged to reach their fullest potential. Every gift — regardless of its size — creates opportunities that will have a lasting impact on the lives of our students and the strength of our community. Your partnership reminds us that a great school is built not only by those who learn and work within its walls, but also by those who believe deeply in its mission. Thank you for helping ensure that Barstow continues to provide an exceptional educational experience while preparing students to lead lives of purpose, integrity, and service.
This year has been one of meaningful growth and opportunity. Across our campus, students embraced new challenges, faculty inspired deeper learning, and our community came together to celebrate achievements both large and small. From exceptional academic experiences and championship performances to service initiatives, artistic accomplishments, and innovative programming, Barstow students continued to demonstrate the curiosity, compassion, and leadership that define our school. None of this would be possible without the steadfast support of our donors, volunteers, alumni, parents, grandparents, and friends.
Go Knights!
Your generosity extends far beyond a financial contribution. It opens doors for students to discover new passions, equips our teachers with resources to inspire excellence, enhances our campus, and ensures that Barstow remains a place where every student is
Arthur Hall President & Head of School
On behalf of our students, faculty, staff, and the Board of Trustees, we appreciate your generosity, your trust, and your enduring commitment to The Barstow School. We are honored to have you as partners in our mission and look forward to building on this year’s successes together.
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OUR YEAR IN REVIEW JULY 2025
NOVEMBER 2025
Barstow welcomes Art Hall as President & Head of School.
FIRST Robotics Team 1939 hosts five regional teams to modify vehicles for children with mobility challenges at the annual GoBabyGo! Event.
SEPTEMBER 2025 Three seniors are named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists: Sanjana Akkulugari, Carlos Salazar and Sam Golladay. The new middle school FIRST Tech Challenge robotics team begins building for competition season at IDEA Space.
OCTOBER 2025 Barstow receives an A+ as one of the best independent k–12 schools in the region from Niche.com. The Green & White Gala raises $376,000 for The Barstow Fund. (Story and photos, page 22)
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DECEMBER 2025 NOR R HO
PL
L OL
Where you belong! Barstow opens with record enrollment of 792 preschool prep– grade 12 students.
AP
AUGUST 2025
A TI N U M
Barstow is named to the 2025 Advanced Placement School Honor Roll, Platinum Level.
Senior Carlos Salazar is named a CocaCola Scholar, one of 150 selected from over 107,000 applicants nationwide.
APRIL 2026 The Weathercock is honored with Walsworth Yearbook’s Gallery of Excellence Award.
MAY 2026
JANUARY 2026
Robotics Team 1939 wins the 2026 Imagery Award for creativity and spirit at World Championships in Houston, Texas.
Fifth grade students participate in the National Elementary Art Honor Society, a pilot program to recognize elementary students committed to visual arts.
Forty-three graduates of the Class of 2026 officially become Barstow alumni on May 18. (Story and Matriculations, page 42)
FEBRUARY 2026
JUNE 2026
The girls basketball team defeats Plattsburg to win the district championship — and the Knights’ dream season continues through March! (Story and photos, page 45)
Barstow, Summer at Barstow and the Dan & Cassidy Towriss IDEA Space KC earn seven gold and silver awards in the Kansas City Favorites contest.
MARCH 2026 Debate wins first place at MSHSAA District Tournament.
Travis + Taylor Day • Pep Assemblies • Harvest Festival • Middle School Robotics • National Merit Scholars • Welcome Back • Hands-On Learning
Visit www.flickr.com/photos/thebarstowschool/ to see more of the year in photos.
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Little Shop of Horrors • Holiday Parties • Middle School Dance • Ruby Bridges Day • National Elementary Art Honor Society • Culture Fest
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STEAM learning • Robotics • Science Fair Winners • Washington D.C. Trip • Powderpuff Football • Kindergarten-Senior Buddies • State Basketball Sendoff
Visit www.flickr.com/photos/thebarstowschool/ to see more of the year in photos.
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ACADEMIC INTERSECTIONS CONNECTING DISCIPLINES FOR DEEPER UNDERSTANDING SIXTH GRADERS JOURNEY TO MIDDLE-EARTH, blending language arts, social sciences and math along the way. Freshmen examine the relationship between humans and the natural world in English and environmental studies classes. And in early childhood and lower school, STEAM woven into daily lessons forges memorable connections between subjects. This is integrated learning at Barstow, an approach that links two or more disciplines through faculty collaboration and intentional curriculum design. By blending subjects that are often taught in isolation, students develop stronger critical thinking skills, broaden their academic interests and gain a deeper understanding of complex ideas. In upper school, English teacher Lindsay Zimmerman and Biology teacher Erin Thornburgh paired students’ study of Robin Wall Kimmerer’s “Braiding Sweetgrass” with an ecology unit. After reading the collection of essays about humans’ relationships with the natural world, students created a gallery walk of projects that illustrated their insights. In Biology, a K-State Distinguished Professor provided expertise on climate change, soil science and sustainability. To bring everything together, students dug into hands-on service projects at Powell Gardens. “This collaborative project has been a highlight for me and Ms. Thornburgh, and the service trip to Powell Gardens is a new favorite tradition for us and for the freshmen,” Ms. Zimmerman said. “Students see connections both across the curriculum and in the natural world. It’s a meaningful way to wrap up the year with joy and purpose.”
Middle school English, Writer’s Workshop, science and world studies faculty created an integrated learning unit inspired by JRR Tolkien’s “The Hobbit.” Sixth graders read the fantasy classic, then
created their own worlds with unique geography, natural resources, governing and economic systems and travel magazines to demonstrate their new digital arts skills. The unit ended with a showcase of diplomacy, design and storytelling at the Dan & Cassidy Towriss IDEA Space. In lower school, second grade students create and operate their own lemonade stands. The recipe for this unit mixes core subject areas together, and serves it up with a project-based showcase for family and friends.
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“They work in groups as entrepreneurs, creating their brand, managing a budget, writing commercial scripts, designing a stand and developing a unique recipe. The highlight is watching students share ideas and encourage each other,” second grade teacher Katie Zeldin said.
WEATH ER WOND ERS
Early childhood teachers capture students’ imaginations and increase retention by incorporating students’ interests into their lessons. Here’s what integrated learning looks like while studying weather in preschool: SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & MATH » Making tornadoes to see centripetal force. » Using anemometers to measure wind. » Playing Spin & Graph to predict weather.
READING & LANGUAGE ARTS » Increasing comprehension and retention after reading weatherrelated stories. » Creating clouds to complete writing prompts. Across all divisions, integrated learning creates intellectual connections — and prepares students to think beyond traditional subject boundaries.
A highlight of the fifth grade year was a capstone trip to Washington, D.C., where lower school lessons synthesized in real-world learning. At the National Mall and Arlington Cemetery, they deepened their understanding of service and leadership. At Harper’s Ferry and Mount Vernon, they saw where history was made by John Brown and George Washington. The itinerary also included the Smithsonian Museums, the National Archives and the U.S. Capitol.
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MOTOR SKILLS & DRAMATIC PLAY » Coloring and cutting wind spinners. » “Anchoring” weather forecasts.
THE BARSTOW SCHOOL
DONOR REPORT 2025–2026
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2026–2027
BOARD OF TRUSTEES THANK YOU to the Barstow community for all you do to support our students, faculty, staff and families. During the 2025–2026 school year, you helped us exceed the $1 million dollar mark in gifts that benefit every student, every day! Our mission to “promote sound scholarship and to give symmetrical development to mind, body, and character” is bolstered by your dedication to The Barstow School. Without your generosity, the Barstow experience simply would not be possible. In the classroom and beyond, our students have significant opportunities for growth with experiential learning, the arts, athletics and STEAM offerings. Your contributions to The Barstow Fund provide tuition assistance, improvements to campus safety and professional growth for faculty and staff. We deeply appreciate your continued support.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Greg Graves
Tiffany Simpson
Jennifer Gille Bacon
Peter Vrooman ’88
CHAIR
VICE CHAIR
SECRETARY
TREASURER
Jason Backstrom ’03
Srikala Subramanian
Mira Mdivani
MEMBER-AT-LARGE, ADVANCEMENT
MEMBER-AT-LARGE, TRUSTEE GOVERNANCE
MEMBER-AT-LARGE, INTERNATIONAL
MEMBERS
Abe Assefa
Nicole Baker
Andrea Becker ’08
David Bell
James Byrd
Neha Doshi
Allison Dummermuth
Erin Garrison
Shruti Tejwani
Jennifer Thiessen Waldeck ’90
Tim Cowden
With gratitude, Jason Backstrom ’03 Board of Trustees Advancement Chair
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Art Hall
EX-O FFI CI O MEMBER
KEY TO DONOR REPORT SYMBOLS
ThaILLnIOkN!s
The Barstow Fund Donor The Barstow Fund plays a crucial role in maintaining the high standards of our school’s operations and ensuring the ongoing excellence of our academic, arts and athletic programs. Endowment Fund Donor The Endowment Fund serves as a long-term savings account for the school. Contributions to the endowment are invested indefinitely, and a portion of the principal is allocated each year to support the school’s programs and needs. Restricted Gifts Donor These generous individuals contribute to scholarships and projects that enhance our campus, supporting various needs for the benefit of students, faculty and staff. Science Classroom Donor These generous donors contributed to the renovation of the middle & upper school Chemistry, Environmental Science and Physics laboratories. In-Kind Donor In-kind donors generously provide goods and services instead of monetary contributions, such as donating equipment and supplies to support Barstow’s initiatives. IDEA Space Donor We honor donors who support the Dan & Cassidy Towriss IDEA Space KC. We appreciate those who believe in the power of an IDEA and support innovation, discovery, entrepreneurship and arts. Armillary Society Member Armillary Society members have donated consecutively for five or more years and exemplify our culture of philanthropy.
CONSTITUENTS The Barstow Community has many supporters from different groups, all sharing a common goal to uphold the school’s mission. Alumni
Parent of Alumni
Parent
Faculty and Staff
Grandparent
2025–2026 Trustee
Every effort is made to ensure the donor list is accurate and complete. This report includes received and in-kind contributions from July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026. If there is an error or omission, please accept our apologies and contact Siobhan McLaughlin Lesley, Chief Advancement Office and Community Outreach, so that future publications will be accurate.
AM
2025–2026
DONOR REPORT WITH GRATITUDE. Supporters listed here raised $1.58 million in 2025–2026. MIND, BODY CHARACTER SOCIETY $100,000–$999,999
Mr. and Mrs. Robert A. Brooks, Jr. Flowers Family Foundation, Inc. Anne and JB Hodgdon Charitable Fund Brette and Gregory Humphreys Kompass Kapital Foundation
1884 FOUNDERS SOCIETY $25,000–$99,999
Backstrom Family Foundation Deanna and Greg Graves Graves Family Foundation Ellen Jurden Hockaday ’56 and Irv Hockaday, Jr. Schreiber Charitable Trust
MARY LOUISE BARSTOW SOCIETY $10,000–$24,999
Anonymous Anonymous Jennifer Gille Bacon and Charles Bacon Kathryn and James Byrd *denotes deceased
HA
denotes honorary alumni
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Amy and Kevin Fox The Fox Family Foundation Joy Hanshaw Harris and Hart Law Firm Mandy Haslag and Stephen Wiles McCandless Family Foundation Abigail and Joshua Millan Norquist-Robinson Foundation Anne N. Patterson ’61 Pagan ’89 Giving Fund Ginger and Robert Rothhaas Tiffany and Allan Simpson Shelley King Theis ’71
ADA K. BRANN SOCIETY $5,000–$9,999
ACS Services Krista Overstreet and Danny Arment Joyce Generali and Jay Backstrom Debby and David Bell Lisa and Fred Delibero Kevin Dunn and Robert Legler Family Media Group Kristin and Ford Galvin Hartley Family Foundation Homoly Design + Build Icon Structures Laura and Christian Kaufman Lois Dubach Lacy ’55 Mrs. Laura and Dr. Fred Lintecum Erica and Greg Lubbers Mdivani Corporate Immigration Law Firm JoZach Miller ’80 and Peter Bali Angela and Chad Nadler Wendy Ketterman Neihart ’79 and David Neihart ’79 Carla and Danny O'Neill Foundation Jason Press ’90 and Caleb Hartzler Michelle and Timothy Prier *denotes deceased
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HA
denotes honorary alumni
Srikala Subramanian and Tyler Thomas Ginger and Eric Swearingen Keri and John Tarantino
BARSTOW SOCIETY $1,500–$4,999
Anonymous Anonymous through DAFgiving360 Advanced Cosmetic Surgery + Medspa The Art of Sports — Tyler Gratwick ’15 and Trey Gratwick ’81 Nasra Siad and Abebaw Assefa Jason Backstrom ’03 and Genevra Alberti Brown & Brown, Inc. Eric Bubb ’95 Jessica and Jason Chanos Bill Collet ’75 and Susan Elizabeth Collet Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal Co. Rachael and Joseph Domino Maria Spressao Doretto ’72, Do Doretto, Fabio Doretto ’01 and Maria Luiza Cordeiro Doretto, Guilherme S. Doretto ’99 and Ariana Nicolau da Costa Doretto Joni and Chuck Etherington Joseph Fox ’04 and Hannah Fox Laura and Steve Fox Erin and Andy Garrison Henrietta Gates ’68 Alyssa and Gregory Graves Gretchen Gregory and Stephen Brodd Paula and Art Hall Laura Hockaday Hall ’83 and David Hall Karen and Brian Hand Mark Harvey ’04 and Lauren Rose Harvey Paget Gates Higgins ’59 and Thomas Higgins Megan and Robert Holmes Wendy Hulsing and Sanjaya Gupta J.E. Dunn Construction Company Trudy and John Jacobson
Shivani and Arihant Jain Jan Johnson Sheetal and Kiran Kakarala Kristi and Henry Kanarek Kauffman Foundation Matching Gifts Program Amy and Christopher Krantz Deborah and Ronald Krantz Patricia and Richard Lashbrook Rajya and Pat Malay Sharon McKibben Siobhan McLaughlin Lesley Multistudio Soni and Amar Patel Terri and Viraj Patel Jessica and Demetrius Peterson Portraits by Christopher Pro-Mechanical, LLC Randy Radosevich Brandy and Michael Rea Delta and Derrick Reicheneker The Robert E. Miller Group The Sadler Family Carrie and Erik Samartino Shop Local KC Spencer Fane LLP Sporting Kansas City Laura Riss Stanford ’74 Summit Lawn and Landscape, Inc. Lindsay and Jason Taylor Shruti and Ajay Tejwani Erin Thornburgh and Paul Fast Tivol Kirby Upjohn ’66 US Bank Foundation Margaret Sutton Valentine ’61 and Eric Valentine Peter Vrooman ’88 and Kenyon Vrooman Jennifer Thiessen Waldeck ’90 and John Waldeck
Jennifer and Richard Webb Molly and Eric Westphal
KNIGHTS SOCIETY $500–$1,499
Anonymous Anonymous Michelle Abeyta and Joel Pool Diana Johnson Abitz ’75 and Daniel Abitz Emily and Jeff Akin
“The Barstow School is an amazing school with a supportive environment. Kids are supported and seen where they don’t get lost in the shuffle. Hard to find a better school in Kansas City.” — Google review, May 2026
American Century Investments Foundation Steve Anthony Rylan Arbuckle Arment Enterprises, LLC Nicole and Aaron Baker Candice and Ian Baldwin Cassie Morrow Banka ’05 and Chad Banka Elizabeth Bartow HA Mary Lou Battmer and Dr. Robert Battmer
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DESIGNED FOR DISCOVERY Thanks to the generosity of several dedicated donors, The Barstow School began a $600,000 renovation of its Chemistry, Environmental Science and Physics laboratories in June. The project will transform the way Barstow middle and upper school students engage with STEM subjects. Designed to support inquiry-based, hands-on learning, the renovated labs feature upgraded infrastructure, flexible classroom spaces, enhanced safety systems and modern scientific equipment. These improvements will provide students with greater opportunities to design experiments, collect and analyze data, collaborate with classmates and apply scientific concepts to realworld challenges. The project reflects Barstow's continued investment in exceptional STEAM education, creating learning environments that foster curiosity, critical thinking and problem-solving while preparing students for future study and careers in STEM fields. Faculty also collaborated throughout the planning process to ensure the redesigned spaces support rigorous, experiential instruction. The School is deeply grateful to the Graves Family Foundation, the Anne and JB Hodgdon Foundation, Brette Hart Humphreys and Greg Humphreys, Ginger and Rob Rothhaas, Tiffany and Allan Simpson and the William T. Kemper Foundation – Commerce Bank, Trustee for making this transformational project possible. 16
Christopher Beal ’80 and Tim Van Zandt Suzanne Ryder Beatus ’71 Mallory and Jimmy Becker Linda Morgan Bell ’62 and Richard Bell Kelly Bennett Sandra and Duane Benton Susan Bernstein ’88 and Chucker Luetje Brennen and Sam Bittel Ruth Brackney Diane Virden Brent ’64 and J. Ford Brent II Reagan and Matthew Brown Erin and Aaron Bumann Wendy Hockaday Burcham ’80 and Grant Burcham Jan Clarkson ’80 and Jeff Clayton Betty Ann Cortelyou ’61 Country Club Bank Monique and Tim Cowden Sarah Curry and Matthew Higgins Marida and Robert Cutler DIAMOND K-9 Training Sheila Donovan Neha and Samir Doshi Karen Dummermuth Lindsay Dutton Dody and Brian Everist Fry Orthodontic Specialists Mary and Robert Fry Niki and Jeremy Fry Jean Snyder Garschagen ’61 Cynthia Gibson ’66 Gilmore Bell Mr. Tiange Shi and Mrs. Ajing Gong Google Lindsey and Robert Graham Richard Green Suzzette and Stephen Griffith Pamela Sutherland Gyllenborg ’72 and John Gyllenborg ’72 *denotes deceased
HA
Loretta Hannon Ronald Harmon Amy and Dani Hasty Trevor Heinzinger ’90 Megan and Carlos Hernandez Jean Welsh Honan ’57 Jen Huey and Tim Huey, Jr. Patricia Jacobson ’75 Alyssa and Philip Jennings Pam and Porky Joerling
The teachers truly care about the kids, and we’ve always felt like our child is known and supported rather than just another student in the classroom. The academics are strong, but what we’ve appreciated most is the community and the relationships our family has built along the way. — Niche review, March 2026
Sukhdev and Ram Kalra Hyejung Kook and Henry He Mayor Quinton Lucas ’02 Kansas City Ballet Karats Jewelers Lida Khalafi and Mohammad Rafiee Toni Kirkpatrick Jennifer and Speros Kopitas Vidya Ravi Kumar and Sachin Srinivasan
denotes honorary alumni
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Leawood Total Wellness Patty Love Sue Welsh Macintosh ’61 and Robert Macintosh Wendy and John Marvin Brenda McCandless Sarah Walsh McClanahan ’54 and Robert McClanahan Georgette Carkener McConnell ’61 and Michael McConnell Sarah and Shea McGinnity Carol Mosman McNeer ’63 and J. Frederick McNeer Jennifer and Dan McNickle
My daughter began as a freshman. She was welcomed and befriended by the kids in her grade right away, and she felt encouraged to try new things and get out of her comfort zone. She loves being a part of the community here and wouldn’t want to go anywhere else. — Niche review, June 2026
Kirill Miniaev ’08 and Sophia Miniaeva Multivac Cares Foundation Kelstan Ellis and Phillip Murphy Sara and Michael O'Keefe Pallavi and Gaurav Pande Neelam and Sankat Patel Mary Phelps PRP Wine International Anna Braukmann Raccuglia ’99 and Paul Raccuglia ’99 *denotes deceased
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HA
denotes honorary alumni
Margarita and Richard Rademacher Jean Baumgardt Reichenbach ’70 Jill Ingram Reynolds ’74 Christy Rodes and Ferd Good Krystal and Aaron Rosenthal Jan Rosenthal Jennifer and Steven Roth Hilary Wright Rudman ’86 and Zachary Rudman Shane Rudman ’10 and Minka Rudman Joan Ryder ’69 and Robert Ludwig Carmen Sabates ’77 SAGE Dining Services, Inc Deann and Carlos Salazar Priya Sanjani and Vijay Kanakadandi Brandi and Jordan Scafe Lisa Jones Schellhorn ’68 and Charles Schellhorn Britten Schreiber Stan Shaffer ’73 and Kathy Shaffer Abha and Aakash Shah Susan Worley Shartzer ’86 and Gary Shartzer Shea Photography Heather Sherman ’84 and David Fandel Sharon and Robert Shipley Stefanie Shustek Michael Sigler ’72 Chelsea and Matthew Storm Nancy Embry Thiessen ’66 HA and Michael Thiessen Donna Thomason ’72 Brooke and Matthew Thompson Lisa Tillema Sibyl Tilson ’75 Sarah and Kyle Tulp Shera Sims and Triet Vu Maurice Watson ’76 Stacey and Jarrod Williams Judson Woods ’13 and Asie Makarova Katie and Ryan Zeldin
BIG IDEAS, BOLD STORIES The humanities are a cornerstone of a Barstow education — where voices are discovered and ideas take shape through creative expression. Visiting authors brought that commitment into focus this year, connecting students with celebrated writers and the power of storytelling. In September, bestselling author Jordan Ifueko spoke to students about the importance of representation in literature. She emphasized the need for characters from different racial and cultural backgrounds, like protagonists in her “Raybearer” and “Redemptor” series, and encouraged students to see themselves as their own main characters. Eighth graders extended that learning during a special writer’s workshop. Author/illustrator Nathan Hale, pictured left, engaged students in grades 3–8 with a live illustration from his “Hazardous Tales” series, an exciting demonstration of visual storytelling. U.S. National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature Mac Barnett, an author and advocate for children’s picture books, explored the interplay between text and illustration, encouraging students to think more deeply about how stories are shown and told. The year also highlighted student achievement. Anya Shah, grade 8, shared excerpts from her self-published novel, “Nandi’s Secret: The Chateau Children,” with her classmates. Anya offered a powerful example of perseverance, creativity and the impact of student voice at Barstow. 19
GREEN AND WHITE SOCIETY UP TO $499
Anonymous Anonymous Anonymous Anonymous Anonymous Michelle and Luke Abbott Austin Abitz ’11 and Danielle Abitz Tammy and J. Ken Adams Dwight Adell Affäre Kristina and Akshay Anand Caelin and Jason Anderson Miriam Anderson and Ted Abele Andy's Frozen Custard Gena Argo Rachael Arnold ’04 Rhonda and Andy Atkins Alexey Ayzin ’19 Janice Germann Baker ’65 and James Baker The Balm Box Ruth Calkins Barkley ’76 and David Barkley Bridget and James Battmer Andrea Franz Becker ’08 and Will Becker Flannery Becker ’05 Neisha and Brent Becker Jaylee and Jacob Beckley Lynne Gorman Berentson ’62 and John Berentson Tanya Madan and Tapan Bhatt Susie Tretiak Blackman and Paul Blackman Pauline Blair Bo Lings Gay Lee Ludwig-Bonney and Robert Bonney Nicta Ha Boyer Katherine Bradshaw and Devin Edwards Walter Brayman HA *denotes deceased
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HA
denotes honorary alumni
Sarah and Nathan Brecheisen Brooke Helmers Bremer ’90 Marci L Browning Living Trust Sharon Brown Buffalo State Pizza Bug and Bear Baked Goods Ginger Burns Kathleen and Thomas Busch David Cagle ’76 and Cheryl Cagle R. Boone Callaway ’79 Anne Sutton Canfield ’63 Karen Welsh Carmody ’59 Caro Benitez Makeup Studio Amanda and Anil Chauhan Chicken N Pickle Sara and Chuck Chionuma Elizabeth Bolton Christenberry ’74 and Robert Christenberry Courtney and Lance Claiborne Michelle and John Cochran Gayle and Roy Cockerham Diane O'Brien Collings ’64 and Peter Collings Damont Collins ’90 Compassion Fix Natalie and Sam Cook Victoria Cook Kristine and Kipp Cooper Robyn Cooper Clay Copilevitz ’87 Jennifer Bailey and David Cramer HA Steve Crossette ’79 and Susan Crossette Crows Coffee Megan HA and Steven Culver Nancy Brozman Daley ’70 Dance Fit Flow Ellen and Scott Daniel HA Maureen and Timothy Deves Bill Dillon
Jennifer and Scott Dreiling Deborah Arthur Dribben ’52 Leslie Davidson Edwards ’06 and Andrew Edwards Wendee Elliott-Clement and Joseph Clement Whitney Eliot-Crook and Ian Crook Charlene Elliott Mary Elliott ’82 Christi and Peter Ellis Sharon and Bill Erwin Pat Eschbacher Janet Close Ewert ’58 and Bernard Ewert Annie Fairchild Lisa Senter Fairchild ’77 and Charles Fairchild Faulkner's Ranch Jean and David Fehling Heather and Mark Fehling Toney Findley Kathy and Mark Firestone Fit Food Feel Good Fowling Warehouse Gregory Fox ’08 and Maggie Fox Chloe Foster Friesema ’11 and Nicole Friesema Faith and Joe Bob Fuller Fun Services of KC LLC Annie and Kent Gajewski Amy and Pat Galvin Claudia Kelley Gant ’70 Debbie Thompson Gates ’74 and Marvin Gates II ’73 Tara and Brian Georgie Brett Gieras ’23 Mark Giffin ’81 JoAnn Schooling Gillula ’65 Claire A. Glidden ’85 and Fred Mueller Julie Gomoletz Barbara Good Adina and Sean Goodman Toby Goostree ’99 and Amy Goostree
Ami Parekh Gordon ’96 and Lance Gordon Meg Truog Grandcolas ’88 and Gary Grandcolas Cheryl Wilhite Greene ’73 Sandra Gregory Susan Hodges Gurley ’66 Richard M. Gyllenborg ’76 and Paula Gyllenborg Scott Gyllenborg ’74 and Christina Gyllenborg Beth and Chris Hafner Elise Schmahlfeldt Hall ’52 Cindy Hamacher
Students at Barstow are taught to see limitless possibilities and are encouraged to pursue the things they are most passionate about. The school truly stands by its core values. Staff make it their mission to help their students grow into good people. Choosing Barstow has been one of the best decisions we’ve made for our family. — Niche review, March 2026
Haley Hannah ’06 Aileen Har and David Coddon Jane Harmon Melissa Martin Harrington ’12 and Scott Harrington Phyllis Rahm Hart ’55 Allison and Mike Hartnett Lorraine and Jordan Hartong Susan and Jack Hartshorn
Donor Report continues on page 24 21
An elegant evening supporting
The Barstow School The Barstow community turned out by the hundreds for our annual Green & White Gala on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025 at the Marriott Overland Park. Supporters generously bid on live and silent auctions items including trips, tickets, exclusive teacher experiences and student-created masterpieces, curated by auction committee members Gretchen Gregory, Megan Holmes, Abigail Millan and Anna Braukmann Raccuglia ’99. After drinks and dinner, the crowd danced the night away — and helped raise $376,000 for The Barstow Fund!
GREEN & WHITE GALA FOR THE BARSTOW SCHOOL
Ajay and Shruti Tejwani, Nasra Siad and Abe Assefa
SAVE THE DATE 2026 Green & White Gala Friday, Oct. 16, 6–10:30 p.m. Fiorella’s Event Space
Browsing the silent auction
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Dancing to the music of DJ Stann
Erin Bumann, Mandy Haslag, Steve Wiles and Aaron Bumann celebrate a winning auction bid at table 10.
Mark Swezey and Kristi Mitchell, Nicole Baker, Brooke Thompson, Mallory Plungkhen, Asha Molina, Meagan and Cameron Miller
Hailey and Tyler Shaffer, Jason and Lindsay Taylor and Brandon and Marisa Halvin
John and Jenny Waldeck ’90, Kala Subramanian and Tyler Thomas, Paula and Art Hall, Ginger and Rob Rothhaas
Jason Backstrom ’03 and Genevra Alberti, Kristina and Akshay Anand, and Chief Advancement and Outreach Officer Siobhan McLaughlin Lesley
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Donor Report continued from page 21
BARSTOW ARTS BLOSSOM The arts thrive at Barstow, where students engage in visual arts, speech and debate, graphic design, broadcasting, vocal and instrumental ensembles and annual stage productions. A major gift from the Flowers Family Foundation supports student artists and performers, particularly in our theatre department. Traditionally, the theatre season includes an upper school play, the Pretenders Play, and lower, middle and upper school musicals. The Flowers Family Foundation grant will allow Barstow to stage an exciting middle and upper school musical in 2026–2027, and will also help continue memorable experiences like performing at Edinburgh’s Festival Fringe. Barstow students traveled to Scotland in 2010, 2017, 2022 and most recently, in August 2026.
Joe Hatley Collin Hawley ’16 Heart of America Shakespeare Festival James Helman ’78 Susan Helzberg Sloman ’74 and Neil Sloman Antonio Hernandez ’06 Jordan Herwig ’19 Mary and Scott Hill HA Mallory HA and Perry Hilvitz Kelley James ’95 and Aaron Holland ’95 Ann Robertson Holliday ’86 and Chris Holliday John Holliday, Jr. ’83 and Charity Holliday Sage Holmes ’21 Sarah and Sean Holmes Emily Horak Emily Huffman ’81 Ellyn and Megan Hunter Nancy and Joe Huppe Anne Hyvrard HA and James Lane Joseph Jacobson ’07 and Ashley Jacobson Jasper's Italian Restaurant Kevin Jeffries ’74 and Laura Jeffries Ann and George Johnson Kerry and Ron Johnson Leigh Jones-Bamman ’70 Brian Jones Elias Jones Carol Durwood Journagan ’66 Jyoti Mukharji In-Home Cooking Gina Kaefring Laura Kaiser Shahrzad Jalili-Kamali and Arash Kamali Lauren Fox Kanan ’15 and William Kanan ’13 Kansas City Royals Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts *denotes deceased
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HA
denotes honorary alumni
Lea Marker Keller ’67 and Tom Keller Janet Kelley ’67 Courtney Kendall Pamela Bowers Kessler ’71 Aaron Ketchell Jane Ketchell Desiree and Ryan Keyes Christina and Todd Kieffer Jean Titus Kiene ’60 Samantha and Michael Kilgore Hollie Kloser Genny and Arthur Knaebel Ronna and George Koepp Kona Ice of West Jackson County Arlan Koppel James Korneman ’93 Julie and Paul Kramschuster Carol Davis Krueger ’79 Swapnam and Lala Kumar Rae Ann and David Lackey Lilli and Anthony Lackey Ann Hatfield Lane ’70 and Gary Lane Cindy McCollum Larson ’89 and Mark Larson Blythe Brigham Launder ’68 Leawood Police Department Victoria Little ’69 Laura Knickerbocker Lloyd ’73 Teresa Lo and Rex Parker Dave Lockwood Lyric Opera of Kansas City Grant Mallett Elizabeth and Todd Malone Lynnly Busler Marcotte ’67 Jennifer Marien Marriott Kansas City Overland Park Adrian A. Marrullier ’79 and Yvonne Marrullier Kevin Martin ’74 and Carolyn Martin
Amanda Marvin and Martin Benega Christina Payne McAllister ’87 Amy McCarthy-Phillips ’69 Marguerite McClinton Stoglin ’94 Ann McCray ’78 Stephanie Watson McCurdy ’76 and Ed McCurdy Renee McGhee-Lenart Shealey and Jerome McKenzie Collin McMillan ’03 and Margaret McMillan James M. McPherson ’00 Catherine and Matt Metcalf Jamie Metzl ’86 Heather Kemper Miller ’86 and Mike Miller Judy Field Miller ’59 Maegan and Cameron Miller Kristi Mitchell HA and Mark Swezey Mojo Cycling Studio Asha Molina Shelagh Montgomery Thomas and Dale Thomas Edward Moody ’81 Roxanne Moore Elizabeth Morrison ’86 Karen Morrow Elizabeth Moss Evans ’65 and Gordon Evans Kathleen Cushman Murphy ’86 and Timothy Murphy Lindsy Myers ’92 and Mitchell Douglass ’92 Lori and Scott Myron Sue Nagy HA The National Museum of Toys & Miniatures Jane Satterlee Neihart ’78 and Robert Neihart Deanna and Todd Nelson Ruby and Richard Nelson Traci and Donny Newsom Jimmy Nguyen Liliana and Brett Nin Carly and Tim Ning
Donor Report continues on page 28 25
ROBOTICS WINS ON WORLD STAGE FIRST Robotics Team 1939 capped an extraordinary 2025–2026 season with a milestone appearance at the FIRST World Championship in Houston. The team came home with the prestigious Imagery Award — an achievement that reflects not only technical excellence but also the creativity, collaboration and dedication that define Barstow's nationally recognized robotics program. After qualifying for the international championship, Team 1939 joined nearly 600 of the world’s top robotics teams for four days of intense competition. The Kuhnights compiled an impressive 8–2 record during qualification matches and earned the distinction of alliance captain. Their alliance advanced through two rounds of playoff competition, placing Barstow among the event's elite performers. The Imagery Award recognized the outstanding visual integration of Barstow’s robot, branding, pit display and presentation. Judges praised the cohesive design and attention to detail. Team 1939 has now earned the most Imagery Awards worldwide. In November, team members planned and hosted the annual GoBabyGo Community Build at the Dan & Cassidy Towriss IDEA Space. Along with five other regional robotics teams, members presented specially modified ride-on cars to children with mobility challenges. Guided by Coach Aaron Dalton and dedicated volunteer mentors, Barstow students continued to demonstrate that robotics is about much more than building machines. It’s about inspiring innovation, serving others and empowering students to tackle complex challenges with confidence.
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GROWING THE BARSTOW BRAND SUMMER AT BARSTOW and the Dan & Cassidy Towriss IDEA Space increase Barstow’s visibility, community engagement and revenue. These programs introduce families from all over the region to Barstow’s innovative and individualized education through field trips, camps and enrichment opportunities.
DAN & CASSIDY TOWRISS IDEA SPACE KC
7,600 enrollments sessions 551 camp May 26–Aug. 7 1,800 individual campers codes 132 ZIP from California to New York Gold winner
Kansas City’s Favorite Summer Camp Kansas City Star, 2026
840 Barstow student use 187 After-school STEAM classes participated 334 Students in interdisciplinary collaborations 77 Girl & Boy Scouts programs +246% Field trips Silver winner
Kansas City’s Favorite Tutoring/Education Service Kansas City Star, 2026
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Donor Report continued from page 25 Julia Norton-Keidel Daly Jordan O'Brien ’63 Janet and Jay Obeji Susan Olander ’74 Owen/Cox Dance Group Ben Ozenberger Jennifer Padberg HA and Shawn Hollon Mary Lou Pagano HA PaPPo's Pizzeria & Pub — Casey Richards and Kosta Chili Giris Meghan Patni and Jaya Arora Linda Katz Patterson ’62 and Curt Patterson Cheryl and Glen Payne Mary Ann Peacher Elizabeth and Michael Pearson Joan and Larry Perkins Gale Gilbert Perll ’64 and Michael Perll Drew Petty Linda Mitchell Petty ’82 and Michael Petty Samantha Rock Pettyrock ’15 and Jack Petty Pettyrock ’15 Ann Singleton Pfeifler ’51 Cynthia Scott Phaerion ’11 Piersol Foundation, Inc. — Elinor Tourtellot ’61 Mallory and Andrew Plungkhen Robert Pohl ’89 and Kristen Pohl Andrea Poisner-Corchine Deanna and David Pool Beni Porat Kasie and Nick Presko Barbara and Cecil Prier Lourdes Racela ’86 Debra and Darin Raffety Lorie and Dan Reckrey Page Branton Reed ’73 and Bruce Reed REFINE Soccer Training David Reid *denotes deceased
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HA
denotes honorary alumni
Rendezvous Climbing Gym Restless Spirits Distilling Company Anne Butler Rice ’86 and Eric Rice Caroline Rock ’16 Christy Roitz Kana and Kevin Roller Dian and Don Roth Emily Eschbacher Rucker ’96 and Lon Rucker Anne Potter Russ ’78 and Norbert Russ Jane Gottsch Sainsbury ’79 Salumi Rose Martha L. Sandven ’89 Jennifer Russell Sawyer ’65 and Robert Sawyer Scheels Leslie and Scott Schulte Sydney Schwartz Marilyn and Jamie Senter Martha Griffith Shearer ’62 and Gary Shearer Gina and Christopher Shepherd Linda Shippy David Shopmaker ’05 and Hannah Shopmaker Sonya and Christopher Shore Debra and Jeff Siler Martha and RZ Sims Jerry Singer Katie Kessinger Snapp ’79 Social Shop Lora Sorkin ’86 Kendra Spahr and Todd Race Lauren Plapp Speer ’00 and Gerrad Speer Elisabeth Spencer ’79 Alan Staples ’01 Melanie and Don Stelting HA Vickie and Sam Stewart Jean and Alan Stribling Sweet Magnolia Cookie Co T-Mobile
Robby Choon Kheng Tan ’77 Erika Tanis Tasso's Greek Restaurant Rose and Eugene Tate Johnna and Jonathan Thomas Betty and Thomas Thurman Matt Thurman Stephanie Stubbs Tinsley ’62 and Jerry Tinsley Christine Torres Edward Tranin ’78 and Amy Tranin Lisa and Bryan Tulp Julie Valluet Kimberly HA and David Vasquez Halli Vrooman ’78 Penelope Smith Vrooman ’54 HA Virginia Raymond Wagner ’56 and Richard Wagner Terri and Paul Warning Bryan Watson Dwight Watson Mimi Fitch Wayne ’79 and Bill Wayne Westport Cafe Mary White Maureen Whittaker Courtenay Seidlitz Williams ’67 Casey and Maxwell Williams Becky Hudspeth Wincek ’86 and Michael Wincek Mary and Thomas Woltkamp Wonderscope Children's Museum Kyle Wynne Janet and Mark Yagan Sophia Yagan ’22 Shirley HA and John Young Stephanie and Ron Youngblood Jean and Robert Zeldin Lindsay Zimmerman HA Zoomin' Groomin' Mobile Pet Spa
A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE Second grade teacher Mallory Plungkhen was honored as the 2026 recipient of the Betsi Brooks Krumm Award for Excellence in Teaching, a recognition presented annually to a faculty member nominated by their colleagues. Named in memory of Barstow alumna and lifelong educator Betsi Brooks Krumm ’90, the award celebrates exceptional teaching and dedication to students. Nominators described Ms. Plungkhen as a “pillar, peacemaker and problem solver,” praising her compassionate support of students and fellow faculty members, her ability to make learning joyful and her unwavering commitment to the Barstow community. She received the award during a special presentation by Dr. Berent Krumm, Betsi’s husband, along with Betsi’s classmates and friends Jenny Thiessen Waldeck ’90 and Sean Hart ’87. A generous gift from Cheri and Robert Brooks, Jr. ensures that this annual award will be given in perpetuity.
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THE HERITAGE SOCIETY E
Heritage Society Giving
Name Barstow in your will or trust. Designate a specific dollar amount, a percentage of your estate or a particular asset.
Designate Barstow as a beneficiary of a retirement plan, life insurance policy or commercial annuity.
Make a qualified charitable distribution from your IRA after age 70. These gifts may help reduce taxable income.
Donate marketable securities.
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BARSTOW’S HERITAGE SOCIETY honors alumni, parents, grandparents, faculty and friends who have chosen to include Barstow in their estate plans. Through their foresight and generosity, members of the Heritage Society help ensure that future generations of Barstow students will benefit from the same exceptional educational experience. TH
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Members of the Heritage Society share a common vision: a commitment to the enduring success of the school and the students whose lives it shapes. Planned gifts help strengthen Barstow’s endowment and provide long-term financial stability for our programs, faculty and students.
To learn more about the Heritage Society, please contact: Siobhan McLaughlin Lesley Chief Advancement and Outreach Officer 816-277-0433 siobhan.lesley@barstowschool.org
Heritage Society members Bob, Mary, Nicki and Jeremy Fry hosted a reception to honor members of the Barstow community who include the School in their estate plans.
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THE HERITAGE SOCIETY MEMBERS
Nancie and Paul S. Kivett
Jean Wight Rosahn ’35*
Lois Dubach Lacy ’55
Diana Johnson Abitz ’75 and Daniel Abitz
Marguerite Peet Foster ’43*
Martha Lally-Platt ’75 and Stephen Platt*
Anne Potter Russ ’78 and Norbert Russ
Susan Belger Angulo ’76 and Thomas Angulo
Mary and Robert Fry
Elaine Patterson French ’40*
Charles H. Sachs
Kelly Brent Lambert ’50* and Sanders R. Lambert, Jr.*
Jane and Gerald Schaumburg
Anne Thompson Gartner ’44*
Cindy McCollum Larson ’89 and Mark Larson
Stan Shaffer ’73 and Kathy Shaffer
Janice Germann Baker ’65 and James Baker
Joyce Generali and Jay Backstrom
Nancy Staley Laubach ’44*
Martha Stout Gledhill 1919*
Gordon K. Lenci*
Linde Lee Johnson Barber ’74* and David Barber
Amanda and Thomas Goldsborough
Robert Mackenzie*
Helen Ward Beals 1909*
Scott C. Gyllenborg ’74 and Christina Gyllenborg
Grace Madison*
Lee Ann Duckett Bell ’86*
Elise Schmahlfeldt Hall ’52
Betty Brookfield Berol*
Joy Hanshaw
Jane B. Bolton*
Judy Hart*
Beverly Pierson Bradley ’44*
Paget Gates Higgins ’59 and Thomas Higgins
Rilye Semple Ashby ’48* and George B. Ashby*
Patricia and Andrew Brown Carolgene Burd ’64* Charles A. Carter, Jr.* Betty Ann Cortelyou ’61 Melanie McVay DiLeo ’66 and Charles DiLeo
Barbara and Gene Funk*
Ellen Jurden Hockaday ’56 and Irv Hockaday, Jr. Betty Branson Holliday ’57* Jean Welsh Honan ’57 Myrna Pratt Horne*
Wendy and John Marvin Susan McGee ’76 Charlotte and John Morrow Wendy Ketterman Neihart ’79 and David Neihart ’79
Caroline M. Scofield* Mary Jane and Bruce Short* Maye Wymore Sibley ’31* Michael Sigler ’72 Miriam Babbitt Simpson* Thomas Staley* Charlotte Redheffer Stewart ’40* Josephine Reid Stubbs 1925* Kate and Whitney Sunderland, Jr. Mary* and Whitney Sunderland*
Sheryl and James L. Osborn
Barbara Welch Thompson ’44*
Rosalyn Osborn
Joan McGee Thompson*
Betty Ann Patti*
Darlene and Gerald F. Tuohy*
Marguerite Munger Peet 1921*
Janet E. Turner ’32*
Lisa Pelofsky ’82 and Bronwyn Werner
Maurice A. Watson ’76
Fern* and Charles Pine*
Raymond B. White* Scott M. Wolff ’76 and Karen Wolff
Robert Dockhorn
Carol and Dennis Hudson*
Ann Duckett
Josephine Hellings Huguenin ’31*
Leslie Teel Dunn ’70 and Tom Dunn
Quintanella B. Johnson
Emily Lou Withers Potter ’46* and George W. Potter, Jr.*
Veronica and George Egon
George Cook Jordan*
Douglas Price ’76
A. D. Eldridge*
Leslie Kase ’77
Astrid Reed*
Dody and Brian Everist
Janet Kelley ’67
Deborah R. Reichman ’70
Annette and Eugene E. Fibuch*
Betty and William Kessinger*
Michele and Grant Ritchey
Louis* and Fred Fisher*
Jean Titus Kiene ’60
Mary Judith Robinson ’57*
Georgia Berkshire Welch 1919*
Beth and William Zollars
* Denotes deceased
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GIFTS THAT GIVE BACK WITH GENEROUS SUPPORT from our community — current and past families, trustees, alumni, faculty and staff and friends — The Barstow School is able to maintain and enhance our student experiences, facilities and our beautiful campus.
WELCOMING SPACES
A new fountain in the Middle School Courtyard is the result of a $15,000 gift from alumnus Mark Harvey ’04, creating a welcoming gathering space for students. The fountain is a reminder that the School continues to inspire generosity long after graduation. Harvey said, “In the 20-plus years since I graduated from Barstow, I have really come to appreciate not only the quality of the teachers and staff, but the amazing community as well. I choose to give back to show students in a visible way that Barstow leaves a long-lasting impression, well after you leave.”
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The sundial near the Barstow Garden on the northeast side of campus is a gift in memory of Betsey Grant Sutton ’38; given by her son, Tod Sutton. The gift was received through the “Roots of Remembrance: Enhancing Outdoor Spaces for our Community” campaign. Donors may honor loved ones by purchasing a bench, plaque or another meaningful item on campus with a personalized memorial. “Roots of Remembrance” also offers a unique way to celebrate milestone reunion years or special occasions.
A BETTER SEAT AT THE BALLGAME Knights baseball fans are enjoying an enhanced game-day experience thanks to new stadium seating installed before opening day of the 2026 season. Made possible through generous $75,000 gifts from the Graves Family Foundation and Burns & McDonnell, the project provides comfortable 177 chairback seats with armrests and cupholders, plus an area for game announcers to see all the action. The seats are another improvement that makes the Graves Family Baseball Stadium one of the premier high schools baseball facilities in the metro area.
GRANDPARENTS GIVE WITH HEART Barstow grandparents continue to make a meaningful difference both on campus and through their philanthropy. In addition to cheering on students at performances, competitions and Grandparent & Special Friend Day, they contributed $27,000 during this year’s spring appeal. Their generosity is celebrated annually on the Grandparent Wall, a prominent display in the lower school hallway and a popular spot for students to proudly point out their family’s names.
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WAYS TO GIVE Visit barstowschool.org/support to learn about ways to support the school. AS WE REFLECT on another remarkable year at The Barstow School, I am deeply grateful for the ongoing generosity and commitment that make our community so extraordinary. This Impact Report stands as a tribute to the shared spirit of philanthropy that drives our mission and enriches the Barstow experience for each and every student. Your support — through gifts of time, talent, and treasure — continues to inspire and empower our students to reach their highest potential. Thanks to you, Barstow is solidly seated at the forefront of academic innovation, consistently provides opportunities in the arts, athletics, and STEM, and nurtures a learning environment in which scholarship and character flourish together. Thank you for you enduring impact. Together, we are not only honoring Barstow’s proud legacy but also shaping a future where every student is equipped to lead and succeed. With appreciation,
Donate Online Visit www.barstowschool.org/donate and use our secure giving page to make a one-time or recurring gift.
Via Snail Mail Send a check payable to The Barstow School 11511 State Line Road, Kansas City, MO 64114
Make A Pledge Call Dan McNickle in the Advancement Office at 816-277-0428. Matching Gift Use an employer’s matching gift program. Corporate Sponsorship explore a variety of opportunities for corporate giving.
Donate Stocks & Securities You may be eligible for a charitable deduction.
Siobhan McLaughlin Lesley Chief Advancement and Outreach Officer siobhan.lesley@barstowschool.org
Planned Giving Include Barstow in your estate plans.
To learn more about The Barstow Fund, contact Community Relations and Barstow Fund Manager Dan McNickle, dan.mcnickle@barstowschool.org
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The Barstow School is classifed as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization by the standards of the Internal Revenue Service.
EN GAG ED AN D I N S PI R ED
ALUMNI COMMUNITY
Member of the Class of 2000 recently celebrated their 20th reunion. Left to right: Jon Badeen, James McPherson, Ashley Mercomes Rahaman, Franco Olivier, Mark Moreland, Andrew Baroody, Candice Perilstein, Miranda McMillan Rush, Sarah Schoeb Tenner, Lauren Plapp Speer, Spencer Day and Erin Eskie Merrill.
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FELLOW ALUMNI We have had so many great community moments in the past year. A few that stick out include the 1995 basketball state championship reunion, where six teammates, coach Fritz Gabler and then-athletic director Richard Gyllenborg got together and were honored at halftime of a varsity boys basketball game. Then, later that spring, we had 19 alumni gather to volunteer at Harvesters, including a great contingency of alumnae from the Class of 1986. And in June, during our first Phone-A-Thon in about three decades, I was inspired by hearing our volunteers connect and catch up with so many of you. Of course, that is not to mention all the wonderful reunions we celebrated and our annual Toast To Togetherness alumni event. As you flip through the pages of this alumni section, I hope you see faces you recognize and enjoy reading about your classmates’ updates.
2025 ALUMNI AWARD WINNERS THE NANCY & ANN HATFIELD ALUMNI OF THE YEAR AWARD Jason Backstrom ’03 THE MARTHA BELLE AIKINS SMITH VOLUNTEER AWARD
THE ANNE POTTER RUSS ’78 ALUMNI LEGACY AWARD Join our networking community at
barstowschool.alumnifire.com
Lauren is a 2015 graduate of The Barstow School who later attended The University of Notre Dame and The University of Kansas. In addition to her role at Barstow, she is a freelance journalist who has recently been published in Lawrence Magazine, Kansas City Magazine and Kansas City Business Journal.
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David Franz ’05 Jordan Herwig ’19 Caroline Elton Kill ’89 Craig McPherson ’02 Anna Braukmann Raccuglia ’99 Caroline Rock ’16 Stan Shaffer ’73
Stan Shaffer ’73
Standards high,
Lauren Fox Kanan ’15 Director of Alumni Relations
ALUMNI BOARD 2026–2027
Susan Bernstein ’88
Know an alumni who should be recognized? Contact the Alumni Office at alumni@barstowschool.org.
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2 Don’t miss out on our biggest alumni party of the year! A record 104 attendees joined us in 2025, and we are looking forward to welcoming even more alumni this year. Mark your calendar and join us at our new location:
Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2026
Boulevard Brewing Co. Rec Deck At the event, we will celebrate our 2026 Alumni Awards and new Honorary Alumnae: 3
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Megan Culver
Jennifer Padberg
Middle School Social Science and Grade 8 Coordinator
Grade 5 Language Arts and Lower School Student Council Advisor
THIS PAGE – From top left: 1 Stan Shaffer ’73, Art Crumm HA and Brynn Shaffer Everist ’02 2
Andrew Lang ’23 and Aaram Salam ’23
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Anne Potter Russ ’78 and Susan Bernstein ’88
4 Jackson McNickle ’24, Alex Hart ’24 and Mateo Mountford ’24
5 Photographs by Clara Ketchell ’21
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Grant Gryska, Marie Fourie ’13, Katie Sloan Henrichs ’13 and Rob Henrichs
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THIS PAGE – Clockwise from top left 1 The Class of 1966 still has the Senior Line pose down-pat! Ann North Readey, Cindy Gibson, Nancy Embry Thiessen, Melinda Calkins Bartling, Jeanie Tillotson Beyer, Kirby Upjohn and Carol Durwood Journagan. 2 1971 Reunion: Ann Dietrich Cooling, Diane Atha Harriman, Deborah Wheelock Duensing, Shelley King Theis, Leslie Francis Cutler, Virginia Day Sims, Pamela Bowers Kessler, Jill Pettegrew O’Connor and Marie Adams Dolembo. Ann Trusty Hulsey and Eden Lee Murray zoomed into the event.
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OPPOSITE PAGE – Clockwise from top left 1 2005 Reunion: Cassie Morrow Banka, Becca Hood, Jessica Rice, Mallory Selzer Vaughn, Ellen Schuch Edgar, Lisa Scott, Ethan Jackson, David Franz, Ally Hubbard Scott, Jesica Kincaid and Caitlin Meehan Hoover 2 2015 Reunion: Zach Bruennig, Michelle Martin, Clara Wencker, Lauren Fox Kanan, Jason Lednicky, Kieran McMann Fraser, Claire Lednicky, Sarah Epsten, Hillary Pierson-Eib and Stephanie Hamann 3 1985 Reunion: Craig Shultz, Mary Lee Truog Duff, Earl Drake, Kerri Nelson Mulligan, Al Mauro, Mike Morsman, Scott Robertson 4 2020 Reunion: Sola Dugbo, Ryan Vo, Jonathan Wang, Ryan Lang, Aiden Jacobs, Ezra Wright, Alex Hanshaw-Bhaskar, Amanda Munsell, Jonah Girson 5 George Satterlee, Trissy Layle Duncan and John Hoel see their track state championship trophy from 1980. 6 Connor Williams ’17 receives a high five from a teammate during the 2025 Alumni Soccer Game.
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CLASS NOTES 56
Ipek Calapala Evrenol is living in Istanbul, Türkiye. She has three daughters, six grandchildren and one great granddaughter. Three of her grandchildren live in the United States. She lost her husband six years ago. She misses Kansas City and Barstow very much. She remembers her dear friends, the late Olive Kees Austin and Nancy Thompson Dods. They kept in touch through the years and travelled together in the U.S., Türkiye and Europe. Every year she corresponds with Ellen Jurden Hockaday at Christmas and enjoys hearing about her growing family.
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Catherine Rush Thompson took a career inventory test in seventh grade at Barstow that led to her lifelong passion for physical therapy. She clinically practiced physical therapy for nearly 50 years, taught PT from 1978–2020 at KU Med and Rockhurst University, and published several professional books. At Rockhurst, she created a service learning curriculum designed to provide pro bono healthcare services for children and adults. Catherine’s career embraced Rockhurst’s core value of “Magis,” the commitment to pursue the greater good through excellence, service and continual growth. Her legacy, the Catherine Rush Thompson Magis Award, honors this dedication to service and is given annually to outstanding doctoral physical therapy students.
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Anne Salisbury and husband Greg Meyerhoff are donating pet psychic readings by phone for Barstow’s upcoming fall gala. They have been animal communicators for over 25 years and enjoy doing it now from Fernandina Beach, Fla.
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Hilary Wright Rudman is the owner of The Plaid Elephant boutique in Overland Park, Kan.
On April 29, 2026, Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs appointed Ashley Mercomes Rahaman to the Maricopa County Superior Court as a trial court judge. This court is the 4th largest trial court in the country. Ashley served on the bench as a Superior Court Commissioner for five years prior to this appointment. She is one of only four black female judges to be appointed in the court’s 114 year history.
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Carmen Sabates hosted a 70s-themed party in the fall of 2025 for local Barstow alumni from the classes of 1973 to 1980. The party, held at Carmen’s Alameda Tower Condominium, had a great view of the Plaza Art Fair.
Spencer Day serves on the Westwood City Council in Westwood, Kan. Special thanks to Rachel Peter Orscheln and Tad King for participating in 2026 Homecoming as our alumni presenters!
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Chris Beal enjoys traveling and hiking in retirement. He recently completed an 18day hike in the Himalayas. He also serves on Jackson County’s Community Mental Health Fund Board, and serves as a mentor to inmates at Lansing Correctional Facility.
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Lindy Senter Cross, Stephanie Thedinger Fitzgerald, Laura Adelman Hewitt, Heather Craft Ludvigsen Helen, Pickering Sifers and Mindy Backstrom Stewart recently reunited in northern Minnesota on Lower Whitefish Lake. The long weekend included a boat ride, pontoon cruise, wonderful meals, conversation and no extra sleep! “The miles may separate us, but Barstow friendships have a way of picking up right where they left off,” Hewitt wrote.
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Julie Ritchey lives in Australia with her family and works in theatre for young audiences as a writer and director. She recently co-wrote an opera for 0–6 year olds.
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Sara Kincaid Makara was selected as a volunteer for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This summer, she helped unfurl team flags during the national anthems on match days at Arrowhead Stadium. Sara is a communications director at the University of Kansas Medical Center and is joyfully married to Michael Makara, a political science professor at the University of Central Missouri.
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David Shopmaker and Hannah Shopmaker welcomed their third daughter, Rosie Michelle Shopmaker, in December. Their older twin girls, Emerson and Taylor, celebrated Tree Day this year as Barstow preschoolers!
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Corey Wacknov is the co-founder of Gray Wolf Performance in Lenexa, Kan., which blends physical training with mental performance coaching.
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Skylar Devins ’14 and Deko Ricketts Devins ’13 welcomed their first child, Ruah Becker Devins, in September 2025.
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Becky Marvin Diamond married Darius Diamond in October 2024. Sarah Pourakbar, Ned Babbott and John Marvin ’15 were in the wedding party. Becky and Darius welcomed their first child, Theodore Diamond, in June 2026.
Cassidy Rudman Towriss is the Chief Brand Advisor for Cadillac F1.
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Jake Roberts married Isabella Florissi in October 2025. Will Kanan, Alex McDonald and Judson Woods were groomsmen.
Katie Sloan Henrichs and Rob Henrichs welcomed their first child, Henry Scott Henrichs, in May 2026.
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Jeanne Brown is an associate attorney at Shamberg, Johnson and Bergman and spoke to Barstow students at the Junior-Senior Breakfast in May 2026.
Libby Smith Hoffman and Jason Hoffman welcomed their first child, Hayes Andrew Hoffman, in December 2025.
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CONDOLENCES
Natalie Dockhorn Naughton and Brad Naughton welcomed their first child, Graham Joseph Naughton, in March 2026. Leo Yuan is the gallery director at The Blanc in New York City.
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Michelle Martin is lead vocalist of the Lisbon-based band Belinda Rose, whose first album will come out in October.
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Collin Hawley is a middle and upper school math teacher at Barstow, and also coaches basketball, cross country and track and field. Gary Whittaker is a park ranger at Bandelier National Monument in Los Alamos, New Mexico.
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E-Beth Leach got engaged to George Coulton under the northern lights in Finland in January 2026.
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Kelsie Jackson graduated from law school at the University of Nebraska in May 2026, and now works at SpaceX in Washington D.C. as a satellite policy associate.
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Gordon Lenci, Headmaster of The Barstow School 1968–1975, passed away in Bradenton, Florida, on May 11, 2026. Mr. Lenci’s work helped shape the foundation of the School after its move to State Line Road. During his first year at Barstow, construction was completed on a new middle school wing to help accommodate growing enrollment. He also oversaw the completion of Barstow’s transition to a coeducational school and led a substantial curriculum diversification that included the expansion of international electives. Prior to serving at Barstow, Mr. Lenci attended Dartmouth College and began his teaching career at Suffield Academy in Connecticut. Following his tenure at Barstow, he became Head of School at Roland Park Country School in Baltimore, Maryland.
Arthur Atkison, Headmaster of The Barstow School 2001–2008, passed away on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. Mr. Atkison provided thoughtful leadership and upheld a strong culture of academic excellence and student-centered learning. He is remembered for his ability to connect with students, leaving a lasting impact on countless young people and colleagues alike. Mr. Atkison attended the University of Arkansas, where he earned his undergraduate degree, and later received a Master’s in English from the University of Alabama Birmingham. He built a distinguished career in education, teaching at Pembroke Hill School and Fort Worth Country Day School before his leadership at Barstow.
Please see our website for condolences. www.barstowschool.org/condolences
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ALUMNI EVENTS Clockwise from top left: 1 Samantha Georgie ’22, Selena Spurrier ’22, Divya Dendi ’22 and Isabelle Karpin ’22 doled out college wisdom to the seniors in January 2026.
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2 Head of School Art Hall, Kristin Van Voorst ’76, Scott Gyllenborg ’74, Pam Sutherland Gyllenborg ’72, Daly Jordan O’Brien ’63, Nancy Embry Thiessen ’66, Penelope Smith Vrooman ’54, Carol Faucher ’70, Jean Welsh Honan ’57 and Linda Schooling Kekina ’68 gathered at the Alumni Afternoon Tea in August 2025. 3 Kirby Upjohn ’66, Jean Titus Kiene ’60 and Daly Jordan O’Brien ’63 met the Class of 2026 at the former Cherry Street campus prior to the Senior Walk. 4 Nick Earnest ’97, Scott Jantz ’95, Paul Koenigsdorf ’98, Burton Sexton ’96, Eric Bubb ’95, Fritz Gabler HA, Richard Gyllenborg ’76 and Tommy Lee ’97 celebrated the 30th anniversary of their basketball state championship win in December 2025. 5 Alumni volunteers including Jordan Herwig ’19 called classmates and friends during the 2026 Alumni Phone-A-Thon.
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6 Alumni, seniors and Barstow staff sorted and packed 4,238 pounds of bread at Harvesters in April 2026.
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ALUMNI AT FIFA WORLD CUP 2026 The world turned its attention toward America, and Kansas City in particular, during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Mayor Quinton Lucas ’02 was an ever-present host to teams and fans from all over the world — and Barstow alumni got in on the summer soccer celebration, as well.
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THIS PAGE – Clockwise from top left 1 Alexey Ayzin ’19 2
Lia Adams ’24
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Leandro Zan ’95
4 David Cramer HA and Jennifer Bailey OPPOSITE PAGE – Clockwise from top left 1 Patrick James ’00 with England’s Jude Bellingham 2
Spencer Day ’00 and Reid Day ’05
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Greg Fox ’08, Ken Fox ’10 and Lauren Fox Kanan ’15
4 Mayor Quinton Lucas ’02 5 Kathryn Lundgren ’15 and family 6 Jonathan Wang ’20, Ryan Lang ’20, Sola Dugbo ’20 and Tommy Gannon ’21
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CLASS OF 2026
MATRICULATION 1. Belmont University 2. Bryn Mawr College 3. Carnegie Mellon University 4. Case Western Reserve University 5. Columbia University–Jewish Theological Seminary 6. Creighton University 7. Dartmouth College 8. Duke University 9. Embry Riddle Aeronautical University 10. Emory University 11. The George Washington University 12. Georgia Institute of Technology 13. Graceland University 14. Grinnell College 15. Howard University 16. Indiana University
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17. Jacksonville University–Rome Institute 18. Lewis & Clark College 19. Louisiana State University Eunice 20. Northwestern University 21. Penn State University 22. Pepperdine University 23. San Diego State University 24. Seattle University 25. The University of Kansas (7) 26. University of Michigan (2) 27. University of Missouri 28. University of Missouri–Kansas City, 6-year Medical Program (3) 29. University of Wisconsin–Madison (2) 30. Villanova University 31. Washington University in St. Louis (3)
STAY CONNECTED to Barstow barstowschool.org
main /thebarstowschool alumni /barstowschoolalumni
main @thebarstowschool alumni @barstowschoolalumni
main the-barstow-school alumni barstowschoolalumni
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A SEASON TO REMEMBER The Barstow Knights girls basketball team wrote a defining chapter in program history during the 2025–2026 season, culminating in the team’s first-ever trip to the MSHSAA Final Four Tournament. Under the guidance of Coach Rodney Gilyard, the team transformed early-season uncertainty into a championship run with resilience, hard work and determination. Throughout the season, the Knights relied on collective effort and balanced scoring. Junior guard Talia Dreher and freshman forward Bristol Sanders each averaged 12 points per game. Utility players contributed every step down the court: seniors Alex Dean and Chloe Red Legs, junior Moriah PerrenoudMoore, sophomore Addison Huff and freshmen Layla Payne and Annalisa Taylor. The Knights entered the Show-Me Showdown in March with a 20-6 record. The community rallied behind them with a schoolwide sendoff, reflecting Barstow’s shared pride in a journey from rebuilding to competing on Missouri’s biggest stage. The Knights brought home a fourth place trophy — and an enduring place in Barstow history. Post-season, Dreher was named to the All-State team and honored as District Player of the Year. Sanders, Dean and Red Legs landed on the All-District Team and Coach Gilyard was named Conference Coach of the Year.
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Clockwise from far left: 1 Freshman forward and standout player Bristol Sanders takes a shot during the MSHSAA State Tournament. 2 Coach Rodney Gilyard, Mariah Perenoud Poore, Layla Payne, Chloe Red Legs, Annalisa Taylor, Bristol Sanders, Talia Dreher, Addison Huff, Alex Dean and Assistant Coach Sarah Lamp.
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3 Junior Talia Dreher was named to the AllDistrict and Class 2 All-State teams for 2025–2026. 4 Senior Alex Dean was named to the All-District team, and will play for Louisiana State University – Eunice. 5 Senior Chloe Red Legs was also named to the All-District team and is headed to Jacksonville University—Rome City.
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6 The all-school celebratory sendoff for the girls basketball team was a highlight of the Knights’ historic season, and the 2025–2026 school year.
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KNIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS FALL SEASON Girls Tennis • Sonya Shkuta, senior; Anya Stanojevic, sophomore – Class 3 District Doubles Champions & MSHSAA Class 3 State Doubles, 8th place. Volleyball • Lia Levin, Adele Muir, Sydney Westphal, juniors; Addie Huff and Lilly Simpson, sophomores; Bristol Sanders, freshman – Academic All-State. • Lia Levin, Adele Muir – All-District 1st Team. Boys Soccer • Ivan Caballero Vieyra, Grayson Passanisi, juniors; Max Benega, sophomore – All-Region. • Rohan Thomas, senior – All-Region Goalkeeper of the Year. • Ivan Caballero Vieyra, Max Benega – All-State Honorable Mention. Grayson Passanisi – All-State 2nd Team. Rohan Thomas – All-State 1st Team. • Eshan Patel, Rohan Thomas, seniors – Academic All-State & KMBC-TV/Hy-Vee Scholar Athletes of the Year. Cross Country • Elizabeth Patry, sophomore – All-District 12th place, MSHSAA Class 2 All-State 24th place.
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WINTER SEASON Knight Stars Dance Team • Missouri Dance Team Association State Competition, Hip Hop 2nd place, Lyrical Jazz 5th place. Boys Basketball • Angelo Gray, junior – All-Conference 1st Team, All-District. Girls Basketball • District Champions & MSHSAA Class 2 State Tournament, 4th place. • Talia Dreher, junior – All-District Player of the Year, All-State. • Alex Dean, Chloe Red Legs, seniors; Bristol Sanders, freshman – All-District. • Rodney Gilyard – Conference Coach of the Year. Girls Swim & Dive • Mira Gupta, Ali Luetje, juniors – All-District. • Mira Gupta, All-State qualifier; Ali Luetje, MSHSAA Class 1 All-State 16th place. SPRING SEASON Girls Soccer • Talia Dreher, Moriah Perrenoud-Moore, Emilia Prier, Caroline Simpson, juniors; Lilly Simpson, sophomore; Bristol Sanders, freshman – All-District.
• Caroline Simpson, Lilly Simpson – AllRegion. • Lilly Simpson – State Honorable Mention. Baseball • Cooper Chanos, freshman – All-District. • Sam Cohen, sophomore – All-District Honorable Mention. • Grayson Passanisi, junior – All-District. • Shya Zeldin, junior – All-District. Boys Golf • Jacob Dummermuth, freshman – MSHSAA Class 2 State Golf Tournament, 20th place. Track and Field • Norah Culver, junior – MSHSAA Class 2 State Track & Field, javelin, 6th place. • Quincy Stribling – MSHSAA Class 2 State Track & Field, 200 meter dash, 5th place. Notable Knights • Cayden Crosby, senior – NAIA Champions of Character Award. • Nik Mykhailenko, senior – Crossroads Conference Sportsmanship Award. • Soren Gupta, senior; Caroline Simpson, junior – MSHSAA Sportsmanship Award.
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KNIGHTS IN ACTION Clockwise from top left:
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1 Surrounded by her coach, host family and friends, Senior Sonya Shkuta celebrated her commitment to play tennis at Bryn Mawr College in Pennsylvania at an athletic signing on April 20. Seniors Alex Dean and Chloe Red Legs also signed their commitment letters. Alex will play basketball at Louisiana State University— Eunice. Chloe will play basketball at Jacksonville University—Rome City Institute in Italy. 2 First baseman Robert Waldeck, junior, prepares to tag a runner during a home game against St. Michael the Archangel on April 7. The Knights won 6–5. The team completed its spring 2026 season in May with a runner-up finish in Class 2, District 14. 3 Juniors Ali Luetje, Norah Culver and Avalee Flores hype the crowd, as the cheerleading squad performs during the homecoming pep assembly on Feb. 20. 4 Girls and Boys Varsity Soccer Coach Scott Huppe earned his 200th win with the Knights on May 12, as the girls soccer team defeated Van Horn 5–2.
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5 Junior point guard Dallas Collins goes up for 2 during the Feb. 20 homecoming game against Van Horn. The Knights fought hard against the Falcons before falling 57–59.
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FOND FAREWELLS
TWO EXTRAORDINARY EDUCATORS WHO RETIRED FROM BARSTOW AT THE END OF THE ACADEMIC YEAR LEAVE AN ENDURING LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION AT BARSTOW AND BEYOND. From 1986–2026, Bill Frank taught upper school mathematics, finance, economics and computer science, but his reach extends well beyond these subjects. He steadfastly treated his students with respect and dignity and advised and supported his peers with wisdom and grace. Legions of students and colleagues will remember Bill with respect and fondness. “Mr. Frank is the embodiment of what makes Barstow special,” Mayor Quinton Lucas ’02, one of Bill’s former students, said. The mayor proclaimed April 27 as Bill Frank Day in Kansas City. “His mission has always been more than just teaching formulas; it has been about instilling confidence in problem-solving and a genuine joy for learning.”
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Liz Bartow built a remarkable career spanning decades of service in independent school education. She joined Barstow in 1996 as a world language teacher, and during the next three decades she assumed leadership roles that included Director of Admissions, Dean of Students and Director of the Middle and Upper School. She retired as Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, a role that allowed her to guide the school’s strategic vision and daily operations. From classroom teacher to senior administrator, Bartow’s career reflects a lifelong dedication to education, leadership and the evolving mission of Barstow.
Photo by Sydney Westphal, Class of 2027
“Students at Barstow are taught to see limitless possibilities and are encouraged to pursue the things they are most passionate about. The school truly stands by its core values of mind, body and character. Staff make it their mission to help their students grow into good people. I truly believe no child at this school feels excluded.”
Niche.com parent review, June 2026
THE BARSTOW SCHOOL 11511 STATE LINE RD, KANSAS CITY, MO 64114
GREEN & WHITE GALA FRI DAY, OCTO B ER 16, 2026
Fiorella’s Event Space Overland Park, Kan.
Visit barstowschool.org/greenandwhite for tickets and sponsorship information.