About Us

Dear Ladue Schools Community

Since 2006, the Ladue Education Foundation has partnered with the Ladue School District to provide extraordinary opportunities for students and staff. Since not all programs and projects can be funded through the district budget, the founding members of the LEF saw an opportunity to help our students and staff not only financially, but also with community and alumni outreach; the foundation has provided seed money to establish innovative programs such as Project Lead the Way, robotics and Catalyst while also connecting Ladue staff with local community businesses with expertise in relevant knowledge areas.

Julie Ferrie ‘72

Executive Director

Our Mission

Since 2006, the Ladue Education Foundation (LEF) has supported the Ladue School District to “go above and beyond for all students”. The LEF brings together parents, alumni, teachers, staff, and community and business leaders to ensure all Ladue students have access to programs, opportunities, materials, and facilities that are beyond the district’s budget.

Our mission is to advance the excellence of the Ladue School District and enhance its legacy by expanding opportunities for student success. We join philanthropy with public education to bring together a community, provide world-class academic and enrichment programs, and promote connections for Ladue Schools alumni.

The Ladue Education Foundation is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I support the LEF?

The District budget simply can not accommodate everything an excellent Ladue schools education incorporates. By supporting the LEF, you are helping Ladue schools go above and beyond for all students.

What does the LEF do?

The LEF supports the Ladue School District in going "above and beyond for all students". We do this through incubating new initiatives & programs, providing resources and supplies, and engaging and strengthening our communities.

How is the LEF funded?

Donations from parents and neighbors, alumni and teachers, community and business leaders who keep the Ladue School District and the entire community strong by investing in our greatest resource – our children. The Ladue Education Foundation is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization.

Why does a public school need a foundation?

The Ladue School District will always fund the educational requirements of the state. The district goes beyond these requirements to meet the standards set forth by the district’s Strategic Plan; however, budget realities do not allow the district to fund or pilot every program that holds promise. The LEF’s mission is to offer funding and community connections to provide those Above and Beyond opportunities for students and staff. Similarly, the parent organizations of individual school buildings play a valuable role in providing resources to students and staff.