Since 1870, Gillis has been dedicated to serving the needs of children and families of Kansas City.
Gillis` services have undergone many changes over the years.
From our beginnings as a support service for families following the Civil War, to our years as an orphanage, to the current focus of assisting troubled children and their families to become healthy and self-sufficient, we have remained steadfast to our original mission of helping the "needy and distressed" of Kansas City.
Gillis is also committed to serving the needs of children and families in the future.
Our strong foundation and quality care and innovative vision will guide us as we adjust to the changes of the 21st century.
The mission of Gillis is to help at-risk children and their families become contributing members of the community through education, counseling and social services.
The vision of Gillis is that all children will live in emotionally stable, safe and nurturing families.
Quick Facts (2025-26)
- School Type: Special Education School
- Grades: Kindergarten-12
- Enrollment: 45 students
- Average class size: 12 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Gillis Center School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Missouri for:
Category
Attribute
School Overview
School Type
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Kindergarten-12
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Summer School Offered
Yes
School Calendar
Last Day of School
Fri. May 1, 2026
Campus Size
25 acres
Student Body
Total Students
45 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
91%
State avg.: 20%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
7 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
6:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
12 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
School Notes
- The student needs to have an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) or a 504 Plan. The school district needs to contract the student to our school.
- Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
- Doreen Wallace, Foster Care Advocate -
- Kim Bailey, Educator -
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are famous alumni from Gillis Center School?
Gillis Center School famous alumni include: Doreen Wallace, Foster Care Advocate and Kim Bailey, Educator.
When is the application deadline for Gillis Center School?
The application deadline for Gillis Center School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is Gillis Center School located?
Gillis Center School is located in the South Kansas City neighborhood of Kansas City, MO. There are 6 other private schools located in South Kansas City.
Related Schools
Show me:
People that viewed Gillis Center School also viewed these schools: Kvc Niles, Cornerstone With Care - Ozanam School and Summit Christian Academy.
The nearest high school to Gillis Center School is Kansas City Academy (0.4 miles away)
The nearest elementary school and preschool is Christ The King Parish School (0.4 miles away)
Show me:
Show me:
School
Location
Miles
Quick Facts
Kvc Niles
Alternative School
1911 E 23rd St
Kansas City, MO 64127
(816) 895-4228
Kansas City, MO 64127
(816) 895-4228
7.4 miles
Gr: 1-10 | 22 students Avg. class size: 10 students
Cornerstone With Care - Ozanam School
Special Education School
421 E 137th St
Kansas City, MO 64145
(816) 508-3661
Kansas City, MO 64145
(816) 508-3661
7 miles
Gr: 6-12 | 51 students
1500 SW Jefferson
Lees Summit, MO 64081
(816) 525-1480
Lees Summit, MO 64081
(816) 525-1480
13.1 miles
Gr: NS-12 | 1,337 student Avg. class size: 18 students Sports: 14 | Extracurrculars: 27 Tuition & acceptance rate listed
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