Message from Brad Shelley

Pembroke Hill is truly unique. As head of school, I am so proud of our students and faculty for the extraordinary examples of teaching and learning present at all levels, from early years (age 2 years) through 12th grade.

While we are known for our tradition of academic excellence, the Pembroke Hill experience is much more comprehensive than just preparing students for college, which we do very well as evidenced by our National Merit honorees, average ACT scores, number of students taking Advanced Placement courses, and the many regional and national honors our students earn.

But what I think is even more important than our academic program, is what is at the heart of Pembroke Hill - our commitment to our mission, Together, cultivating the best in each, for the benefit of all. These words define us, inform our work and serve as the foundation for what it means to be Pembroke Hill. It reflects our dedication to developing our students in all areas - ethically, socially, emotionally and academically.

Pembroke Hill was founded in 1984 through the merger of Pembroke-Country Day School for boys (established 1910) and Sunset Hill School for girls (established 1913). Both predecessor schools had a common founder, Vassie James Ward Hill.  

Mrs. Hill was driven by a strong belief that the education of young people is society’s most important act and that great value must be placed on children and their individual capabilities. With this vision, Mrs. Hill set out to establish schools unlike anything Kansas City had ever known. She was successful in her pursuit and today, more than 100 years later, Pembroke Hill is still grounded in her fundamental belief that students learn best by actively participating in a wide variety of experiences.

While Mrs. Hill’s ideals were seen as visionary in 1910, they are as essential to educating today's youth as they were at the beginning of the 20th Century.

The Pembroke Hill family is extraordinary, but we are always seeking ways to build an even stronger sense of community. Paramount to this sense of community is welcoming new families, and this year, we were delighted that 188 new students joined Pembroke Hill. Our active Parents Association plays an integral role by encouraging all parents to become involved in the life of the school through their many volunteer opportunities. Pembroke Hill is a much more vibrant school because of our Parents Association and our supportive families, alumni and other friends of the school.

I encourage you to learn more about our amazing school by reviewing this website, talking with family or friends who are already a part of our community and contacting our admissions office. As you become more acquainted with us, I am confident you will better understand the warmth and joy of Pembroke Hill. The feeling is not only palpable, it is who we are at our core!

We look forward to getting to know you and your student.

If I can be of any assistance to you as you explore Pembroke Hill, please don’t hesitate to contact me, bshelley@pembrokehill.org.

Brad Shelley
Head of School