The Ladue School District is pleased to announce that one of its eight schools, Reed Elementary School, was named a 2025 Missouri School of Character by the CharacterPlus Organization. This recognition is given to schools and districts that have achieved a standard of excellence in character development through their exemplary implementation of Character.org’s Principles of Effective Character Education, a framework for whole-school improvement.

“This is a tremendous honor for our school community,” Principal Dr. Chris Schreiner said. “Being recognized as a Missouri School of Character is certainly not the work of one person; it takes a true community—our students, staff, and parents working together, not for the accolades, although it is nice to be recognized, but we all partner for the success of our students. Reed has always been a place that values character, inclusion, respect, and kindness, represented in everything we do.”

CharacterPlus is a national advocate and leader for the character education movement, and its State Schools of Character program recognizes schools that have demonstrated the use of character education and development to positively impact academics, student behavior, and school climate. 

“We are proud to celebrate such a wonderful distinction for Reed Elementary School this year through this prestigious program,” Superintendent Dr. Jim Wipke said. “Ladue School District places a strong focus on the value of character education and its role in the classroom, in the home, and in a student’s future success. Congratulations to the entire Reed School community.” 

Reed Elementary School currently serves 412 students. In 2018, the school was also named a Missouri School of Character, and in 2023, the U.S. Department of Education honored Reed as a National Blue Ribbon School. 

Since its inception, Character.org’s Schools of Character program has positively impacted over three million students, staff, parents, and other community members. This year, only 98 schools throughout the country received this honor. Ladue School District serves over 4,200 students and was one of 16 districts in the state to receive this recognition in 2025.

The State Schools of Character program is not a competition. Schools participating in the program undergo a rigorous process of feedback and coaching, as well as recognition for growth and excellence in character development. 

Join us in congratulating the Reed community!