The information below includes highlights from the Ladue Schools Board of Education Business Meeting on Jan. 29, 2025–this summary is an unofficial record. The official minutes of each Board meeting can be found on the district website under About Us/School Board/Diligent Community. Upon request, meeting minutes are also available for viewing at the Administrative Center following Board approval (typically two weeks after the meeting).

Video recording of the January 29 Business Meeting

Board President Remarks

• Wishes everyone who observes a Happy Lunar New Year!
• Excited about the upcoming community events, including the Chili Supper at the high school on Friday night, which supports boys' and girls' basketball teams and cheer teams.

• Dance Marathon fundraiser for Children’s Miracle Network on Saturday, February 8th, from 5 to 9 p.m.

• Shout-out to Dr. Patricia Brown, building administrators, and STEM teachers for organizing STEAM Week. What a fun week with educational science activities at the primary level. Thanks to the Ladue Education Foundation & Alumni Association and all organizers for planning engaging student experiences.

Superintendent Remarks

• Facility Improvements: The city of Creve Coeur has approved facility improvements at the Fifth Grade Center, including new tennis courts, a turf baseball and softball field, and additional practice space. Thank you to the Board of Education, the Facilities and Finance Committee, Dr. Geoff Macy, and Mike Noonan for their support. The next Facilities and Finance Committee meeting is scheduled for February 6th, and on the agenda will be discussions regarding improvements to the administrative center, with potential plans for a new or upgraded facility to be reviewed.
• School Safety – Reaffirm our shared commitment to the well-being, safety, and educational success of every student at Ladue School District. Assures the community that Ladue Schools staff and administration are prepared with a comprehensive plan in place to ensure a safe environment for students. 
• Community Engagement & School Programs – Shout out to our community education programs. Excited to have active participation on weekends, and thank you to Dr. Derrick Wallace and his staff for organizing these efforts.
• Recognition of Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service – A special mention of the Old Bonhomme Elementary’s community efforts in honoring MLK Day through service activities.
• Celebration of Student Achievements – I had an opportunity to drive to the Lake of the Ozarks to show support in recognition of our students selected for the All-State Choir. Their performance at the Lake of the Ozarks was terrific, and they represented Ladue Schools well. Congrats to those students, and thank you for the dedication of our music teachers in preparing them.
• Governor’s State Address & Educational Policy Concerns – There are concerns about open enrollment policies, the potential destabilization of school districts, and the impact of educational scholarship programs (vouchers). Missouri ranks as one of the lowest teacher salaries, raising concerns about the state’s commitment to fully funding public education.
• Community Appreciation – Thank you to the Ladue Schools community, staff, and leadership for their ongoing support; we will continue to emphasize the importance of public schools and their role in shaping students' futures. We are stronger when we stand together. 

Below is an overview of action and information items from the agenda for the January 29, 2025, Board of Education business meeting. To view the agenda, updates, and presentations, visit the district’s website: Ladue Schools Diligent Community page. 

ACTION ITEMS

S. M. Wilson Pay Application

The Board approved the latest pay application from S. M. Wilson.

2025-26 LMS Course Changes, Additions, and Revisions Proposals

The Board reviewed and approved the proposed changes to Ladue Middle School’s course schedule, additions, and revisions for the 2025-2026 school year. 

INFORMATION ITEMS

Ladue Horton Watkins High School Review 

Dr. Laila Crabtree reviewed the 2024-25 Ladue Horton Watkins school improvements and district goals, highlighting student achievements and educational strategies. 

Panorama Presentation

Dr. Laila Crabtree and Dr. Jennifer Riesenmy reviewed the Fall 2024 Climate/Culture Survey.

Curriculum and Instruction Data Presentation 

Dr. Laila Crabtree reviewed the Curriculum and Instruction Data presentation for the 2024-25 school year.

Budget Workshop Review

Dr. Geoff Macy provided an update on the 2024-25 school year budget. 

UPCOMING MEETINGS

The next Board of Education regular business meeting is Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025. The Meeting ID and link will be posted on the homepage of the Ladue Schools Diligent Community page.