Maplewood-Richmond Heights Elementary outpaced the state in ELA proficiency, with nearly 65% of students scoring proficient or advanced. Among Black students and those receiving free and reduced lunch, proficiency rates hit 35% and 36%—well above state averages. A powerful example of what strong, focused leadership can achieve.

Gateway Science Academy Middle School earned top honors in Math Proficiency for the second year in a row. Eighth-grade math scores climbed from 18% in 2021 to 52% in 2024. GSA also outperformed state averages among key groups, with 34% of Black students and 32% of students receiving free and reduced lunch scoring proficient—nearly double state performance.

KIPP Wonder Academy achieved the highest growth in Reading on this year’s MAP assessment. Their results reflect the power of high expectations and a relentless commitment to student success. The school is building strong momentum—and the future looks even brighter.

Momentum Academy at Tower Grove East showed the highest math growth across our portfolio—and among the top in the state. Their success reflects a deep commitment to strong instruction, consistent reflection, and a relentless focus on student growth.

Barbara C. Jordan Elementary – SDUC was awarded Most Improved Culture based on the 2024–25 Panorama survey. The school showed growth across every category—from student belonging to school safety—and strengthened key teacher-student relationships. They also earned an Emerson Early Literacy Challenge grant to enhance their literacy program, capping off a standout year.

BELIEVE St. Louis Academy was recognized for Highest Attendance, with a 96% daily rate in their first year. Fully enrolled and now breaking ground on their permanent home at Harris-Stowe State University, BELIEVE is proving what’s possible when strong culture and systems make students want to show up and thrive.

Momentum Academy at Fox Park earned the award for Most Improved Instructional Culture. With over 80% staff participation, their culture survey score nearly doubled—from 4.6 to 9.0—surpassing the national average. Their growth reflects a strong, affirming environment where educators feel valued and supported.

St. Louis Voices Academy of Media Arts earned the highest score on the TNTP Instructional Culture Index for the second year in a row—with a perfect 10 out of 10 and 100% staff participation. Their strong leadership and focus on culture are already translating into promising academic gains.

Joe Blomker, Board Chair of Premier Charter School, is the first recipient of our Board Member of Excellence Award. For 18 years, he has helped lead bold efforts to improve academic outcomes while preserving strong school culture. Under his leadership, Premier adopted a new K–8 curriculum, invested in academic coaching, and established a Chief Academic Officer role—demonstrating the powerful impact of strong governance on student success.

Premier Charter School was recognized for its unwavering commitment to excellence. Since joining our portfolio, the team has embraced coaching, attended every professional development opportunity, and earned an Emerson Early Literacy Challenge grant to boost reading achievement—showing that good is not good enough when greatness is possible.

Christian Ketchum, the 2025 Transformational Parent of the Year, is a fearless advocate, devoted mother, and powerful voice for families. Through tireless volunteerism and bold leadership, she continues to inspire and mobilize others in the fight for quality education.

Braylon Grooms, a senior at KIPP St. Louis High School, was named Upperclassman of Excellence. With a 3.6 GPA, leadership across three sports teams, a student-run business, and a deep commitment to service, Braylon is known as the “heartbeat of his class” and a role model to his peers. Humble, driven, and unstoppable—his future is limitless.

Trinity Bailey, a student at BELIEVE St. Louis, was honored as a standout scholar in the Next Prep Career and College Readiness program. Known for her curiosity, focus, and leadership, Trinity excelled in career exploration, mental health and leadership series, and BJC’s healthcare programming. Her future is bright—and just getting started.

Thank you to First Bank for your generous sponsorship