About Us - Quality Of Life

Community Events
De Soto residents take part in annual events such as the Night on the Kaw, De Soto Day’s Festival held during Labor Day weekend, the Fourth of July Celebration and the Cookin' on the Kaw/Blues & BBQ Festival. Civic organizations also conduct many events throughout the year. To view a list of community activities, be sure to refer to the De Soto Events section.

Education
The De Soto Unified School District 232, one of the fastest growing school districts in Kansas, continues Johnson County’s tradition of national caliber public education and is committed to providing a world-class education for every student; recent test scores and student honors confirm their reputation for academic excellence. Serving northwest Johnson County, the district's 100+ square miles encompass De Soto, 60% of Shawnee, 40% of Lenexa, a portion of Olathe and two townships. USD 232 offers 12 attendance centers, seven elementary schools, three middle schools and two high schools. Each classroom is staffed with highly qualified professionals who are dedicated and passionate about student learning.

The district is widely recognized for its state-of-the-art technology, available to staff members and students, kindergarten through grade 12. Presently, networked desktop computer offer Internet access in every classroom. Laptops are also being introduced to students as a way to enhance their learning experience in the classroom and at home. As such, the district is moving to a wireless system to meet the needs of students and preparing the demands of the technology driven future workplace.

Students continue to improve test scores and rank above their state and national peers on both the Kansas assessments and the ACT college entrance exam. The school district achieved Adequate Yearly Progress in 2010 as more students are meeting and exceeding the standards in Mathematics and Reading. "Our students scored well above their state peers and have shown growth in all test areas," said Earl Martin, director of teaching and learning. "This success can be attributed to the outstanding teachers, administrators, and educational programs we provide for our children." Martin also said the positive progress is linked to the continued support schools receive from parents and community members.

The Board of Eductaion showed its commitment to student learning by approving new Advanced Placement courses. Beginning in 2010 and over the next four years, the district will boost academic rigor at the secondary level by increasing the opportunities for students to be instructed in Pre-Advanced Placement strategies (middle school) and enroll in College Prep and Advanced Placement/College Now course work at the high school level.

Did you know?
USD 232 is ranked in the top ten of area school districts, as listed by Ingram's Magazine. The district is also in the top three for the highest percentage of students who take the ACT college entrance exam. The Class of 2009 set a district record for scholarships, receiving nearly $3 million from 60 colleges and universities. To learn more, visit the website at www.usd232.org or contact the administrative offices at 913-667-6200.

In addition to USD 232, De Soto is in close proximity to a wide variety of private schools. For a complete list, please visit the Relocation Section of the website for the De Soto Community Guide.

De Soto also benefits by being along the K-10 Highway, which provides quick and easy access to the acclaimed Johnson County Community College and the University of Kansas.

Parks & Recreation
Acres of city and county parks generate an abundance of year-round activities in De Soto with such amenities as walking trails, brand new state-of-the-art aquatics facility, tennis, basketball and a volleyball court. In addition to parks, De Soto has a wide variety of children’s and adult sporting activities. For more information on the park system and activities, contact the De Soto Parks & Recreation department at (913) 583-1182 ext. 127 or visit www.desotoks.us.

Safety
Safety is an important priority in De Soto. Crime rate is well below national averages, and police protection is provided by the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office. The City has two fire stations and provides round-the-clock fire protection. In 2010, De Soto Fire Department merged with a neighboring department to form the Northwest Consolidated Fire District. The department provides tours for youngsters and assists the community with special events.

Shopping and Entertainment
De Soto residents enjoy a wide variety of cultural and entertainment opportunities that are offered in the greater Kansas City metropolitan area, all within a short and convenient driving distance. Such activities include the Kansas Speedway, The Woodlands Racetrack, Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas City Royals, the Nelson-Atkins Art Museum and the Country Club Plaza.