Ladue Schools is proud to announce that Ladue Horton Watkins High School (LHWHS) has been recognized as a 2026 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School. LHWHS is one of only a select group of schools nationwide to receive this prestigious honor, which recognizes institutions that reduce environmental impact, improve health and wellness, and provide effective environmental education.

To celebrate this momentous achievement, the district invites the community to a special recognition ceremony on Earth Day, Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at 2:45 p.m. at 1201 S. Warson Rd., St. Louis, MO 63124. The event will be held at the high school’s Pollinator Garden, a student-led project that was instrumental in securing this national distinction.

At LHWHS, sustainability is woven into academics, operations, and student life. What began as a collection of student passion projects has grown over the past five years into a coordinated, school-wide effort. Much of this work is driven by the student-led group Student Action for a Greener Earth (SAGE).

“Being recognized as a National Green Ribbon School is a huge honor for Ladue Horton Watkins High School,” said Principal Brad Griffith. “This national distinction validates the tireless work of our students and staff to make our campus more sustainable. We are incredibly proud to represent our community on this national stage.”

Key achievements that contributed to this recognition include:

• Measurable Environmental Action: A student-led no-idling campaign resulted in an approximately 30% reduction in vehicle idling within its first week.
• Biodiversity & Education: Students cultivated a native pollinator garden featuring over 40 native plant species, which now serves as a hub for outdoor learning.
• Future-Ready Infrastructure: A staff transportation survey revealed that 50% of employees would be more likely to drive electric vehicles with workplace charging access, directly informing the district's EV infrastructure plans.
• Strategic Leadership: The creation of a part-time Sustainability Coordinator role to facilitate collaboration between district leadership, facilities staff, and curriculum leaders.

SAGE student leaders Sophie Cowlen (11th grade) and Emma Friedman (10th grade) have taken an active role in maintaining native plantings and expanding recycling efforts, supported by sponsors Dr. Kelley Krejnik, Becky Sudholt, and Lynda Rater.

“Since students launched this effort in 2019, it has grown into a culture of responsibility across our school community,” said Dr. Kelley Krejnik. “This recognition is both a celebration of our progress and a commitment to carrying it forward.”

“This recognition underscores the district’s commitment to fostering a shared vision for a sustainable future,” said Superintendent Dr. Jim Wipke. “The leadership shown by our high school students serves as an inspiration for the entire district. We look forward to celebrating this achievement with our community on Earth Day. How befitting!”