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Four KNPS Schools Earn Recognition in U.S. News & World Report Best Schools Rankings

Knob Noster Public Schools is proud to announce that three additional district schools have earned statewide recognition in the newly released U.S. News & World Report Best Elementary and Middle Schools rankings. With these latest designations, all four KNPS schools have now been recognized in U.S. News & World Report's Best Schools honors.

Whiteman Elementary School, Knob Noster Elementary School, and Knob Noster Middle School each earned a place among Missouri's highest-ranked schools in their respective categories. This recognition follows Knob Noster High School's distinction as one of the nation's Best High Schools for the eighth consecutive year.

Among the three newly recognized schools, Whiteman Elementary School earned particularly notable recognition, ranking 59th among 1,886 elementary schools across Missouri and placing in the top 3% statewide. Knob Noster Elementary School and Knob Noster Middle School also earned impressive distinctions, each ranking in the top 10% of Missouri schools in their respective elementary and middle school categories.

"This is an outstanding accomplishment for our entire school district," said Dr. Jerrod Wheeler, Superintendent of Knob Noster Public Schools. "Having all four of our schools recognized by U.S. News & World Report speaks to the dedication of our teachers and staff, the leadership of our administrators, the hard work of our students, and the support of our families. We are incredibly proud of these accomplishments and the work taking place in our classrooms every day."

The U.S. News & World Report rankings evaluate public elementary and middle schools using measures of student achievement in mathematics and reading, while accounting for student demographics and other factors that provide context for academic performance. The Best High Schools rankings use a separate methodology to evaluate high school performance.

For Knob Noster Public Schools, these recognitions represent more than academic rankings. They reflect the district's ongoing commitment to ensuring every student has access to excellent instruction, meaningful learning experiences, and the support needed to succeed.

These achievements also highlight the strength of the district's educational programs across its communities. From elementary classrooms to middle and high school, educators and staff work together to build strong academic foundations, support student growth, and prepare students for future success.

"While we are proud of these rankings, our greatest measure of success is the growth and accomplishments of our students," Wheeler added. "These recognitions belong to the teachers, administrators, staff, students, and families at all four of our schools. Their dedication and commitment to excellence make achievements like this possible. We are proud to be KNPS!"

Knob Noster Public Schools congratulates the students, faculty, staff, administrators, and families of Whiteman Elementary School, Knob Noster Elementary School, Knob Noster Middle School, and Knob Noster High School on these outstanding achievements.