SME Mission and Vision

At Shawnee Mission East, we believe that a truly great school is more than just a place for academic instruction; it is a community where every student finds their place......that might be on the stage, on the competition field, or in our community giving back. As Lancers, we are dedicated to building a culture of belonging that serves as the foundation for academic excellence.

Our vision is rooted in the belief that when students feel welcomed, cared for, and safe, they are empowered to rise to the challenges of the classroom and the world beyond. From bringing learning to life to fostering engaged global citizens, our daily goal is to ensure the success of every student who walks through our doors. 

 

How did SMEast become the "Lancers"

(This is a compilation of information shared by Gary Gradinger, SME '61 and Pam Gradinger, SME '62)

Summary of interview conducted by Hannah Pence (former Staff Member) on why the Lancer mascot was chosen...

"First, we were amazed that a group of 14, 15, 16 year olds were even asked for our thoughts [on the mascot for our school].  Dr. Howard D. McEachen (Superintendent at that time) was a phenomenal superintendent, but a bit stubborn.  We were totally shocked that all our recommendations were accepted [for consideration of the new mascot]."

"We met several times at Indian Hills in the Spring of 1958, in the multi-purpose room.  Indian Hills was a Junior High in those days - 7th, 8th, and 9th grades.  There were a handful of 9th graders from Indian Hills, plus Shawnee Mission Sophomores and Juniors transferring to East.  There were parents [at these meetings} too."

"The process was deliberate and thoughtful.  We were aware of the magnitude of the task [of choosing the new mascot for our new high school].""We were passionate about differentiating."

We ruled out animal characters, plants, inanimate objects, and colors as many high schools already had them.  We desired a mascot that was strong, bold and memorable.  The committee chose the Lancer from the idea of soldiers on horseback with lances.  From this the committee generate the idea of the mascot.  Everyone liked the idea and the committee went with it.  Lancers were courageous, bold, and noble.  The idea of tradition, history, and a "tradition of excellence" was vital to this idea.

The Gradingers pointed out how the committee also set the stage for other important aspects of our soon-to-open school...

It was important that our mascot, yearbook, and newspaper had a consistent theme. 

The yearbook was named The Hauberk.  Lancers were most likely wearing armor, possible made of woven, interlocked rings.  "Woven" like a yearbook weaves the history of a school.

The newspaper was name The Harbinger.  This was a Medieval term for a Lancer heralding the coming of news.  {Note:} The heralders connection was born from this.  In our early school history this was a group of young women in uniform who would come to the court during games with fanfare trumpets to herald the coming of the Lancers.

The committee liked the historical aspect of Lancers, Hauberk, and Harbinger; They are all connected as well as enduring terms.  [The committee] wanted to start traditions - and alumni back from the early '60s love that the reputation/tradition of excellence has sustained.