About Our District

Our Community

Leavenworth is first in multiple ways, as the first city established in the state of Kansas and boasting the first school district in the state (1858). The Pioneer spirit continues today, as USD 453 leads the way in education, and has been an active participant in the Kansas State Department of Education Gemini School ReDesign Process. The Leavenworth Unified School District has redesigned schools to prepare students for success in every classroom, every day.

The city of Leavenworth is situated adjacent to Fort Leavenworth and the Missouri River. Fort Leavenworth, built in 1827, is the second oldest active United States Army post west of Washington, D.C., and the oldest permanent settlement in Kansas. It is known as “the best hometown in the Army,” with many choosing to retire in the surrounding area after military service. The first Board of Trustees for common schools met in July 1858.

Leavenworth High School was later established in 1865, making it the oldest high school in the state.

Leavenworth is a suburban community with local amenities, and within a quick drive to multiple dining, shopping, and entertainment destinations throughout the Greater Kansas City metropolitan area.

20 minutes to Kansas Speedway, Hollywood Casino, and Legends Shopping
20 minutes to Zona Rosa shopping and dining
25 minutes to MCI airport
35 minutes to Arrowhead/Kauffman Stadium complex
40 minutes to Kansas City's Power and Light District, Crossroads Art District, and the T-mobile Center

Learn more about the City of Leavenworth

Our Enrollment

Leavenworth Public Schools serves over 3,100 students and is designated as a 5A district by the Kansas State High School Activities Association.

Leavenworth High School offers approximately 50 athletic and academic activities, and competes in the Unified Kansas Conference (UKC), as well as at state and national competitions.

Breakdown of enrollment for the 25-56 School Year:

Earl Lawson Early Education Center (Pre-K/K): 258

Anthony Elementary (1-4): 264

David Brewer Elementary (1-4): 305

Henry Leavenworth Elementary (1-4): 254

Leavenworth Intermediate School (5-6): 413

Richard Warren Middle School (7-8): 402

Leavenworth High School (9-12): 1198

Virtual School (K-8): 27

Third Avenue School (special education alternative): 27

Our Staff

The district employs a highly qualified staff of teachers and support personnel. Leavenworth maintains a continued focus on ongoing school improvement, specifically in the areas of teaching and learning, special education, support services, parent/community involvement, technology, human resources, and facilities.

297 certified staff members, 255 classified employees, and 42 district/building administrators.

2025-26 starting teacher salary is $51,000, per two-year negotiated agreement approved June 2025.

Our District Boundaries

School Community Update

Twice a month the Superintendent of Schools provides a School Community Update regarding a range of topics that are relevant for the community to be aware of.

Logo Image

Logo Title

In This Section