Senior Class 2026

Ellis began at Whitefield in the 7th grade and participated in Basketball, Soccer, Rowing, Shakespeare, and Cantate.

 I love Whitefield so much, and I'm sad to leave it behind. If I'm able, I know I would send my own children here. It's been wonderful!

A few favorite memories are dances, and staying overnight in Topeka for the basketball tournament. Our junior class trip to Costa Rica particularly stands out. It was absolutely beautiful and I feel like we connected in a way that we haven't before. 

In some way, shape, or form, every teacher I've had has made an impact on my life. Mr Laney helped me grow in faith by modeling walking in the Word. Mr. Stewart demonstrated a love of learning and discussion. Mrs. Slankard is so kind and joyful even in the midst of hard times. I could go on!

I enjoyed Biology class and really enjoyed the dissections. Political Philosophy made things click for me. The readings were difficult but I began to appreciate the value of the education I've received. I saw my progress and that I could enjoy discussing Hobbes, Locke, and Smith.

I love the community at Whitefield so much. I love how much everyone cares about everyone else!

Ellis plans to attend college after graduation and is currently finalizing her decision.

Senior Thesis Presentation: Monday May 5th

Gavin began his Whitefield journey in Kindergarten and participated in soccer, basketball, rowing, volleyball, debate, student council, and Shakespeare.

From friends to teachers, Whitefield is special because we can have deep, meaningful relationships that will continue past high school. 

My favorite memories are winning the soccer tournament, class trips, regattas and having class at a coffee shop. In lower school I loved Greek Feast, field trips and art class.

Humanities has given me the ability to analyze and discuss real-world issues. Rhetoric provides the chance to apply all the things Whitefield's classical education instills. Each of these classes has made me a better thinker, speaker, and person.

I gained so much from my Junior and Senior theses. Both papers took numerous hours of research and the completed result felt very satisfying.

My encouragement to younger students is to not take Whitefield for granted. When you look back, I guarantee you will see how crazy cool it is to go to school like Whitfield!

After graduation Gavin plans to attend the University of Missouri to pursue pre-Med.

Senior Thesis Presentation: Thursday April 30th

Paul has been at Whitefield from Kindergarten and participated in soccer, rowing, basketball, debate, and Shakespeare.

I really appreciated the conversational class format and the teachers. This education is not only for learning the subjects, but mostly for learning how to be a good person. We are gifted with the best lineup of teachers who all have good lives to share with us.

I am most proud of leading the soccer team to win the tournament and my favorite memories are from our class trips to Costa Rica, Oklahoma City, and Philadelphia.

Mr. Wampler helped us grow and truly know that we are made in God's image. Mr. Stewart's humanities class and Mr. Appling's art classes - they teach well and I learned how to be a better person from them.

In the Fall, he plans to begin the Paramedics program and Johnson County Community College.

Senior Thesis Presentation: Tuesday May 12th

Ellie has began at Whitefield in Pre Kindergarten, moved away and then returned in 4th grade. She participated in rowing, worship team, Shakespeare, soccer and art classes.

I love the closeness of the Whitefield community and how I really got to know everyone well.

There are so many amazing teachers and staff here. Mr. Appling taught us that artists are as valuable as scientists, Mr. Stewart challenged our class to think deeply about the world, Mrs. Evans always asks good questions and cares about how we are doing, and Mrs. Murry always gave me lunch when I forgot mine and asked how I was doing.

I think the place I grew the most was in Costa Rica. I loved being able to practice Spanish with the kids there. It taught me that even when things are awkward at first, or if you're afraid to mess up or embarrass yourself, that it's better to just jump in and do it, because if I had been too nervous to say the wrong word or pronounce something wrong, if I hadn't engaged with the people I met, I wouldn't have made as many good memories there as I did. 

She will attend college next year and is in the process of finalizing her plans.

Senior Thesis Presentation: Thursday May 7th

Sam has been at Whitefield since Pre Kindergarten and participated in debate, soccer, literature club, Shakespeare, and chess club.

I really love the teachers here. All of them clearly want to be there, and because of Whitefield's size they can personally connect with and give the individual attention that each student needs. They are what I will miss most when I leave.

The conversational style of classes is something I really cherish. From Political Philosophy and American History I learned economics, constitutional interpretations, ideas of great philosophers but most importantly the skill of discussing and disagreeing well with others.

In lower school, I really enjoyed the "landmark projects" that defined the different grades. From the sugar cube pyramids, Greek and Medieval feasts, and the Wax Museum, everything felt like a fun indication of growing up and progressing in my academic career. In upper school, the trips have been a clear highlight. Sagrada, OKC, and Costa Rica.

I enjoyed getting together on Sunday afternoons to watch and discuss films with Mr. Appling.  I also liked the weightlifting elective in 9th grade that helped me become motivated to lose over 80 lbs and be physically healthy.

He will attend the University of Chicago in the Fall, pursuing economics.

Senior Thesis Presentation: Wednesday May 6

Bella came to Whitefield in the 6th grade and participated in volleyball, soccer, student council, Shakespeare, Cantate, and Whitefield Honor Society.

What I appreciate most is the sincere love everyone has for one another. Since the community is actually rooted in the love of Christ, we naturally desire what is best for each other, and that shapes the way we care for and support one another with genuine kindness. It fosters an environment where people feel noticed, encouraged, and truly valued. That kind of love makes it a place where people can grow to the fullest.

In lower school I remember really appreciating lots of recess and field trips which my previous school barely had. I also loved working in some of Whitefield's garden spaces with my class.

In humanities, being able to read, engage with, and thoughtfully discuss works that have shaped cultures and ideas has been such a privilege. These classes have taught me how to read attentively, trace and map out complex arguments, and think critically about what an author is truly communicating. Learning to slow down, analyze carefully, and articulate my thoughts clearly is an incredible and increasingly rare skill, and I am deeply grateful for it.

Mrs. Slankard is someone I can genuinely relate to and feel comfortable around. She lives out the joy of the Lord in an authentic way and cares how I am doing, not just performing in choir. She makes me feel known and valued.

Mrs. Evans has been a meaningful part of my life. I admire how she lives out her faith in everyday moments. She is encouraging and asks thoughtful questions. Her example has shaped me and I hope to reflect the same grace and authenticity to others.

Bella plans to study Nursing at Truman State University next year.

Senior Thesis Presentation: Monday May 4th

Crosby started his time at Whitefield in 5th grade and participated in rowing, basketball, volleyball, and soccer.

I love the relationships I have with my classmates at Whitefield.  We were able to have genuine class discussions which I really enjoyed.

The teachers here care so much about us and I feel known and loved by each of them.  The everyday interactions with teachers and friends has made the biggest impact on my life.

A few good memories are listening to books read out loud after recess in lower school and then having class outside in upper school. I also really liked art history and all the art classes I was able to take.

I would encourage younger students to ask for help when they need it - it's a good thing and the teachers here will support you. Working through difficult things is going to pay off in the end.

He is in the process of finalizing plans for next year.

Senior Thesis Presentation: Tuesday May 12th