West is Best Scholarship Fund
913.620.6333
Serving students in the Shawnee Mission West attendance area
The Future of West is Best Scholarship Fund
West is Best supplements activity fees and uniform costs for individual students in grades K-12 who demonstrate a need for financial assistance in order to participate in after-school activities such as sports and scouts. Students must live or go to school in the Shawnee Mission West attendance area to qualify.
Since 2012, thanks to the unwavering support of generous individuals like you, the West is Best Scholarship Fund has proudly made a difference in the lives of so many students. Over the years, we have awarded 1,100 scholarships, totaling more than $129,000. We've hosted multiple Gear Giveaway events, providing new and gently used equipment to students, three Vikingpalooza Family Fun events, and eight K-12 Physical Nights, where over 800 Viking students received $10 sports physicals.
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It is with mixed emotions that we announce the disbanding of the West is Best Scholarship Fund, effective August 13, 2025. We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve the community, and we are pleased to share that any remaining funds will be transferred to the Shawnee Mission West High School Booster Club, ensuring continued support for our Viking students.
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We extend our heartfelt thanks to the hundreds of donors, volunteers, and community members whose generosity and commitment have made our work possible. Without you, none of our achievements would have been realized. A special thank you goes to our Board of Directors—both past and present—whose dedication and tireless efforts have been instrumental in advancing our mission:
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Dave Tines
Sophia Esteban-Green
Janiece Gleese
Angie Gunion
Jim Hawkins
Barbara Janssen
Shannon Janssen
Carter Johnson
Sheila Rehder
Angie Samuelson
Jennifer Silverstein
Angie Webb
Staci Youngwirth
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Though our formal operations are ending, the impact of your support will continue to resonate within the SM West community for years to come.
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With deepest gratitude,
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Kelly Tines
Executive Director
West is Best Scholarship Fund
Did you know?
Forty-nine percent of the students who attend West-area elementary, middle and high schools qualify for free or reduced lunch. That's over 3,000 students.
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ACT says the MOST predictable indicator of post-high school success is a student's involvement in extra-curricular activities. Additionally, students who participate in after school activities have better grades and attendance, are more likely to graduate and are less likely to use drugs.
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Help make a difference in our Viking community by donating to West is Best today!