Ladue Schools is proud to announce that Character.org, a leading advocate for cultivating character development throughout American society and worldwide, today certified Conway Elementary School and the Ladue Fifth Grade Center among 290 character-centered Promising Practices that have been implemented in schools and organizations throughout the U.S.

“I am extremely proud of the students and staff at Conway Elementary for their 'Parade of Nations' program and at the Fifth Grade Center 'Cultural Celebration Circles,' which represent best practices in our buildings: leadership, compassion, and a commitment to lifting others up,” said Ladue Schools Superintendent Dr. Jim Wipke. “Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition as your work reflects meaningful efforts to create a positive culture, strengthen relationships, and bring character to life within your school community.”

This year, Character.org received applications highlighting a wide range of practices, including integrating core values into school culture, fostering a sense of belonging and caring relationships, empowering student voice and leadership, inspiring acts of service, encouraging students to do the right thing for intrinsic reasons, and peer mentoring. 

The Promising Practice distinction is awarded to schools and organizations whose unique, effective, and replicable programs exemplify “goodness in action” and deepen their work in the

11 Principles Framework through:

• Creating a stronger shared language around core values
• Increasing student voice, leadership, and ownership
• Embedding character development across academics, culture, and relationships
• Using climate, culture, behavior, and academic data to guide goals and growth
• Encouraging intrinsic motivation; students doing the right thing because it is the right thing to do

The Framework provides a road map for schools to strengthen and sustain a comprehensive culture of character. Whether the school is just beginning or has been implementing character-focused practices for years, the Framework is designed to support continuous reflection, growth, and improvement.

“We are proud to celebrate Conway and our FGC for the intentional practices and experiences provided for students and the Ladue Schools community,” said Dr. Wipke.