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Ladue Schools Unite Around Equity and Inclusion

With all eight schools in the Ladue School District preparing for the No Place for Hate pledge day on Oct. 24, students and staff throughout the district wore orange and participated in Unity Day. 

Unity Day is observed during October, National Bullying Prevention Month, and has been recognized in the United States since 2011. 

While schools encouraged students to wear orange to show their support, others, like the Ladue Fifth Grade Center (FGC), included it in their Cultural Celebration Day. An all-student and staff assembly kicked off the day, where they watched a video on the Ladue Schools’ No Place for Hate initiative. Students also recited the No Place for Hate pledge and discussed how it ties into the Fifth Grade Center’s mission centered around kindness and inclusion. 

FGC Unity Small Group

“It is vital for the FGC community as it embodies our commitment to inclusivity,” explained Patricia Wilson, principal at Ladue Fifth Grade Center. “These events allow us to honor the diverse backgrounds of our students and staff, fostering a sense of belonging and unity. They enrich our school culture and empower our students to advocate for positive change in their communities. I’m proud of the spirit of togetherness that these events inspire. I look forward to seeing our students shine as they develop a strong sense of comfort in being confident within their own cultures and celebrating the cultures of everyone around them.”

Their learning experience continued during their Cultural Celebration Circles, small group discussions led by staff and students. While meeting in these small groups, students expounded on what the No Place for Hate initiative means to them. 

Additionally, they drew pictures illustrating each pledge step and signed their names to green dragon scales, which will be placed on the No Place for Hate dragon in the front lobby on Oct. 24. However, the fun didn’t stop there as students were encouraged to sit with peers they usually don’t converse with at lunch. Students were given “kindness” talking prompts to help lead discussions during lunch breaks. 

Other anti-bullying strategies implemented around the district include Old Bonhomme Elementary’s Second Step: Bully Prevention Lessons. With the Second Step program, each grade level learns important skills for getting along with others, which helps keep Ladue Schools a safe and respectful place where everyone can learn.

With celebrations like Unity Day and the No Place for Hate pledge day, the Ladue School District is committed to providing an inclusive, caring environment that elevates a sense of belonging for all students and stakeholders.

Unity Day