If you have ever set foot in Old Bonhomme Elementary, you have likely seen Tammy MacLean’s passion in action. Whether she is leading a high-energy brainstorming session or connecting with a student over a shared interest, Tammy embodies the dedication and creativity that define our district. It is with great pride that Ladue Schools announces Tammy MacLean, Gifted Specialist at Old Bonhomme, as the 2025-26 District Teacher of the Year.

Tammy’s story is the ultimate example of the "Ladue Way." Her journey began decades ago when she walked the halls of Old Bonhomme as a student. After pursuing her calling in education, she returned to those very same halls as an educator and now leads the district as our Teacher of the Year. 

Tammy has been teaching in the Ladue Schools community for 19 years. She began her career in the district as the Gifted Specialist at Spoede Elementary, where she served from 2007 to 2012. For the past 14 years, she has called Old Bonhomme home, serving as the Gifted Specialist and a mentor to both students and colleagues.

Known for her wit and her ability to meet students exactly where they are, Tammy often leans on a favorite quote from Roald Dahl: "A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men." This philosophy allows her to create a classroom environment where "Idea Lab" is not just a place for curriculum, but a space for true self-expression.

Tammy’s impact is perhaps best illustrated through the deep connections she builds with her students, connections that often last long after they leave her classroom. One of her favorite memories involves a third-grade student named Michael, who shared her lifelong dream of being on Saturday Night Live.

"Every Monday, he'd reenact a skit and ask, ‘Did you see it?’ I’d always say, ‘Yes!’ and we’d break into our best running man," Tammy recalls. This shared bond over comedy and performance became the catalyst for Michael’s academic and personal growth. Over three years, he brought her poems, stories, and even 30-page scripts he had written for fun.

Years later, the two remained in contact. When Michael was accepted into the University of Chicago, he reached out to Tammy to share that he had written his entrance essay about the university's connection to Second City improv.

"My heart was full," Tammy shared. "I responded, ‘When you get on SNL, you'd better invite me on the show!’"

Tammy’s ability to foster human connection and encourage creativity among her students directly reflects our district's Future-Ready Strategic Plan. 

“Tammy MacLean is more than just a gifted specialist; she is a champion for children,” said Superintendent Dr. Jim Wipke. “She has a gift for seeing the potential in every child and the ability to help them reach it. Seeing her come full circle from an Old Bonhomme student to our District Teacher of the Year is an inspiration to us all.”

Please join us in congratulating Tammy MacLean on this well-deserved honor!