Kalsu's Vision: A Celebration of 75 Years

Founded in 1947 as the Antioch Community Nursery School and Kindergarten, Oakhill embarked on a mission to provide a nurturing and academic environment for young learners in the Kansas City Northland Originally named Little Folks in 1948, the school, under the visionary leadership of founder Wanda Lee Kalsu, accommodated 23 students, charging a modest $12 50 per school month Little did they know, this small beginning would pave the way for Oakhill's transformative journey.

Oakhill's roots took hold in the basement of the Antioch Community Church before relocating to 300 NE 58th Terrace in Gladstone, Missouri, with aspirations to expand its academic program to include second through fourth grades. The school's growth eventually led to its current home at 7019 North Cherry in 1989, marking a milestone with the graduation of its inaugural Eighth Grade class in 2010.

The acquisition of the Gladstone Office Building in 2015 and subsequent expansion to grade twelve in 2021 showcased Oakhill's commitment to academic excellence An initial gift of $18,500 from board member H R Wurst paved the way for a dedicated community of philanthropists, whose support, both in time and resources, has been instrumental in Oakhill's success.

Oakhill's resilience, demonstrated through recovery from natural disasters and global pandemics, is a testament to the enduring community ethos forged by Kalsu The warm and caring environment she envisioned remains, as evidenced by the dedication of high-quality teachers, staff, involved parents, and engaged students.

Beyond academics, Oakhill prioritizes holistic development, offering students opportunities for physical activity, team sports, and championshipwinning Panther Athletics since 2011. With a vision to inspire through scholarship and empower compassionate learners, Oakhill remains steadfast in its commitment to cultivating adaptable, resilient individuals.

As Oakhill continues to evolve, its trajectory is guided by a focus on comprehensive student well-being, merging academic excellence with physical strength The legacy of Kalsu lives on, encapsulated in the enduring spirit of a community that truly thrives only at Oakhill.