The Ladue School District proudly announces that the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has named Conway Elementary School a Missouri Gold Star School. 

“The Conway community has reason to be proud of this well­-deserved recognition,” according to Superintendent Dr. Jim Wipke. “Our building principal, Dr. Thomas Devitt, and his staff at every level have collaborated to ensure that each student can succeed and achieve their highest potential. I am grateful for the dedicated individuals and partnerships that work hard on behalf of our students.”

Conway Elementary School was among eight schools that DESE nominated to receive the honor of accepting the prestigious award. This distinction, granted by DESE, is given to schools recognized for performing at high academic levels or that perform at high levels.

“Congratulations to the students, teachers, and staff members at each of the schools for earning this recognition,” said Commissioner of Education Dr. Karla Eslinger. “These schools demonstrate that academic excellence is possible while striving to help their students find their path to success. We’re so proud of their hard work.”

This year marks Conway’s fourth time receiving the Missouri Gold Star recognition. In addition to this year, they were also honored in 2002-03, 2006­-07, and 2018-19.

“Every single decision we make at Conway Elementary is from the frame of what is best for kids,” said Principal Dr. Thomas Devitt. “We appreciate receiving this award because, generally speaking, teachers aren’t celebrated as much nowadays as they deserve. So, this award serves as an external symbol for our broader community of the amazing things our staff is doing at Conway to ensure every single student grows and achieves. We believe in cultivating an inclusive environment and personalized learning for all Conway students, so growing is not just a philosophy but a reality for all our learners.”

DESE established the Missouri Gold Star Schools program in 1991. The program aligns with the National Blue Ribbon Schools program sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education. The Missouri Gold Star Schools program uses the same criteria for nomination as the National Blue Ribbon Schools program. Recipients of the state’s award were also nominated for the National Blue Ribbon Award, which the U.S. Department of Education will announce in the fall.