Shawnee Mission Northwest is a member of the Kansas State High School Activities Association and offers a variety of sports programs.

The mural depicted many things including DNA, cells, photosynthesis, and a four chambered heart.

The Blue Ribbon Award recognizes public and private schools which perform at high levels or have made significant academic improvements.

In 2008, Shawnee Mission Northwest launched the International Baccalaureate program for the 2008–2009 school year.

[10] The Cougars compete in the Sunflower League and are classified as a 6A school, the largest classification in Kansas according to the KSHSAA.