Congratulations to the Ladue Middle School (LMS) Student Council for being honored with the Missouri Association of Student Councils (MASC) Honor Council Gold Award! The prestigious award was presented during the 2026 MASC State Convention held at Branson High School.

Ladue Middle was one of only 81 student councils across Missouri to meet the high standards required for this honor.

The MASC Honor Council Gold Award recognizes schools that maintain a comprehensive program for student activities and leadership. To qualify, the council had to meet 15 or more specific criteria across several categories:

• School and Community Service: Impactful projects that benefit both the student body and the local area.
• Leadership Training: Activities like the student leadership retreat are designed to develop and refine the skills of young leaders.
• School Spirit and Recognition: Programs that foster a positive educational climate and recognize the achievements of both students and teachers, such as the staff member of the month program.

The LMS Student Council was specifically recognized for its involvement at the local, Gateway District Student Council, and state levels.

LMS Principal Dr. Angela Thompson credited 8th-grade math teacher and club sponsor Lauren Genthon for her dedicated leadership. The council has grown from fewer than 10 members to over 40 participants, making it one of the largest clubs at the school.

Reflecting on the group's journey, Mrs. Genthon shared how much the students' dedication meant to the program's success. "I am so incredibly proud of this group," she said. "To see them grow to one of the biggest clubs at LMS while maintaining this level of excellence is amazing. From planning our involvement in our high school’s homecoming parade and orchestrating pep assemblies to serving as greeters for special guests, they have truly stepped up as leaders for our school."

LMS Student Council President Tabitha Riggin (8) expressed her excitement about the award, noting the team's hard work in meeting the rigorous requirements.

"We spent a long time coming up with all sorts of things we could do to meet all the requirements," Tabitha said. "It was a magical moment to learn that we accomplished our goals and were among 81 other qualifying schools.”

Riggin emphasized the council's collaborative spirit and its role in empowering students. "I feel really lucky that I get to go to a school like this that has all these opportunities for us," she said.

The Gold Award highlights the district's commitment to fostering durable skills like communication, organization, and civic responsibility, ensuring our students are truly future-ready.