For the second consecutive year, Maplewood-Richmond Heights Elementary earned the Proficiency Outpacing the State Average in ELA award. Sixty-six percent of students are proficient or advanced, reflecting strong instructional systems, consistent execution, and sustained excellence over time.

Gateway Science Academy High School received this year’s award for Proficiency Outpacing the State Average in Math for the third year in a row. More than 57 percent of high school students scored proficient or advanced in math, significantly outperforming state averages. These results reflect disciplined execution and strong instructional leadership.

The Leadership School earned this year’s Most Growth in Reading award after posting one of the strongest positive growth scores in the state. The school’s results reflect a sustained focus on strong instruction, high expectations, and consistent execution in support of student achievement.

North Side Grand Center Middle School earned this year’s Most Growth in Math award after posting one of the strongest math growth performances across The Opportunity Trust portfolio and the state. Using Missouri’s growth measure,, the school achieved an impressive 8-point increase in proficiency in the past year, results that reflect a deep commitment to continuous improvement.

Momentum Academy Fox Park earned this year’s Culture Champions Award for the second consecutive year based on strong staff Net Promoter Score results and high levels of staff engagement. The award recognizes leadership that listens, responds, and intentionally builds a workplace where educators feel valued and supported.

David Lemkemeier, Board Chair of KIPP St. Louis, received this year’s Board Member of Excellence Award. Most recently, he helped lead the search for KIPP St. Louis’ new CEO. His leadership reflects the important role strong governance plays in ensuring schools improve outcomes for students and families.

Destiny Baltimore, a fifth-grade teacher at Premier Charter School, received this year’s Excellence in Teaching and Learning Award for delivering exceptional student growth through disciplined, data-driven instruction. Over two years, her students achieved an 8-point increase in ELA and an 11-point increase in math on MAP assessments.

BELIEVE Academy received this year’s Pacesetter Award for demonstrating strong momentum across academics, culture, and organizational systems. The school posted growth across grade levels, improved staff retention and satisfaction, and maintained strong student attendance and retention while simultaneously opening a new facility.

Mishana Arnold received this year’s Transformational Parent Leadership Award. Through her participation in the Parent Education and Advocacy Academy (PEAA), she implemented consistent literacy practices at home, demonstrating the powerful role families play in student achievement.

Makiah Williams, a student at Kairos, was named Upperclassman of Excellence. for her determination and commitment to building a strong future pathway. Through internships, dual enrollment coursework, and a SSM Health radiologic technology apprenticeship, Makiah discovered a passion for healthcare.

Nepthalie Leriche, a student at Gateway Science Academy, has demonstrated exceptional curiosity, engagement, and leadership through Next Prep. Recognized by her teachers as a thoughtful contributor, she consistently seeks opportunities to explore careers, connect with professionals, and engage in meaningful conversations about her future.