Parent University was established by the district's Student and Community Services Department with a mission to empower parents through education. This initiative provides a series of thoughtfully designed programs, equipping parents with practical strategies to support their children’s academic achievement, social-emotional success, mental well-being, and overall safety. Parent University reflects a commitment to strong family-school partnerships and continues to foster the engagement of our school community.

There are five break-outs in each session listed below. When registering, please choose one break-out for Session 1 and one break-out for Session 2 and register your child for the provided childcare. Families are invited to enjoy dinner together at 5 p.m. before parents begin their sessions.

Dinner - 5 to 5:30 p.m. 

Session 1 - 6:05 p.m. to 6:55 p.m.

AI in Education (Multipurpose Room)
Presented by Dr. Patricia Brown, Director of Technology for Ladue School District
As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly integrated into education, parents may wonder how these tools impact their children’s learning, safety, and digital well-being. This interactive session, presented by Ladue Schools Director of Technology Dr. Patricia Brown, will provide parents with a foundational understanding of generative AI, explore its benefits and challenges in education, and equip families with practical strategies to support responsible AI use at home. Through hands-on activities, engaging discussions, and expert insights, participants will leave with a clearer perspective on AI’s role in education and how to advocate for thoughtful AI policies in schools.

“One Pill Can Kill”… Yes, we’re talking about Fentanyl" (Cafeteria)
Presented by Guy Gomez, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Community Outreach Specialist
Presentation and discussion about the DEA's "One Pill Can Kill" campaign, which aims to reduce the demand for various drugs of abuse through sharing drug prevention and awareness information, primarily focusing on the dangers of fake Fentanyl. Mr. Gomez will also share information related to other drugs, the origin of these drugs, how they are being smuggled into the country, and how they are being trafficked across the United States. In theory, by reducing the demand for these illicit drugs, we will inherently reduce the supply of these illegal drugs. By educating the public with this information, we hope to gain an exponential increase of drug prevention advocacy by community members, leading towards the reduction of substance use, abuse, addiction, overdose, and overdose deaths to help combat this nation’s ongoing Fentanyl crisis.

Understanding Pathways to Violence (Library)
Presented by Tim Reboulet, Safety & Security Coordinator for Ladue School District
Hear retired U.S. Secret Service Senior Special Agent and Ladue Schools Safety and Security Coordinator Tim Reboulet share lessons learned and skills acquired in law enforcement. Learn how these life lessons are incorporated into making students and staff safer across the district.

Supporting My Child’s Social-Emotional Wellbeing (Deb Cady Memorial Room #1347)
Presented by Special School District's Dr. Sarah Davidovits, James Sievers, and Carrie Ayt
This workshop will help parents gain a better understanding of challenging behavior and will provide practical strategies to nurture their child’s social-emotional development at home. Attendees will learn how to create a supportive environment that fosters emotional regulation, positive relationships, and self-awareness. In addition, participants will learn school practices that will foster their child's social and emotional development in school.

Education Legislative Update (Teleconference Room)
Presented by Superintendent Dr. Jim Wipke and Assistant Superintendent for Business & Finance Dr. Geoff Macy
Join Dr. Wipke and Dr. Macy for an informative session as they provide an update on current proposed legislation and its potential impact on the Ladue School District. Missouri legislators have introduced and continue to propose bills that could significantly affect key areas such as open enrollment, curriculum standards, special education services, and school funding. Stay informed and engaged in the legislative process as we discuss these critical issues and their implications for our schools and community.

Session 2 - 7:05 p.m. to 7:55 p.m.

College/Career Workplace Preparation (Multipurpose Room)
Presented by Dr. Diana Redden and Chad Sisk (LHWHS College and Career Advisors)
Join us for an informative session on how we're preparing our elementary students to be responsible and safe digital citizens. We'll explore the digital citizenship curriculum, including hands-on learning through a fun breakout box activity that simulates real-world online dilemmas. Learn how we utilize Common Sense Media resources to guide our instruction and empower students to make smart choices online. Discover practical tips and resources you can use at home to reinforce these essential skills and create a positive digital experience for your family.

Future-Ready! Empowering Your Teen with Executive Functioning Skills for Life After High School (Library)
Presented by Ladue School District Team of Dr. Jennifer Riesenmy (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Coordinator) and Stephanie Chapie (Behavior Interventionist)
Preparing for life after high school—whether heading to college or entering the workforce—requires more than just academic knowledge. Executive functioning skills like time management, organization, task initiation, and cognitive flexibility are essential for success and independence in post-secondary spaces. In this interactive workshop, parents of middle and high school students will learn strategies to help their teens develop these critical skills. Participants will leave with an understanding of executive functioning, practical applications for real-world success, and tools to foster their child’s growth in becoming a confident, self-sufficient young adult.

Navigating Signs of Suicide, Self Harm, and Mental Health Struggles (Deb Cady Memorial Room #1347)
Presented by CHADS Coalition
This training educates parents and school staff about the signs and symptoms of adolescent depression and suicide so they can recognize and ACT® to help an adolescent who is struggling. The program includes content similar to the SOS® student program but also dives deeper into the prevalence of mental health issues and high-risk groups. It teaches adults how to respond confidently and with care when a child brings a concern about themselves or someone they know. By using common language from the SOS® student program, adults leave the presentation with a deeper understanding of mental health and how to help the youth they interact with most.

D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) (Cafeteria)
Presented by Creve Coeur Police Officers Cambra Pogue and Brooke Bedwell
A police officer-led series of classroom lessons that teaches children from kindergarten through 12th grade how to resist peer pressure and live productive drug and violence-free lives. Come learn more about this program offered by two Creve Coeur Police Officers

Navigating the Digital World: Empowering Your Child with Digital Citizenship Skills (Library Classroom)
Presented by Ladue Instructional Coach Team: Jennifer Bradley, Kristina Lodes, Emily Seabaugh, Stacy Alvord, Teressa Kindle, Adam Stirrat, and Matt Strayhorn
Join us for an informative session on how we're preparing our students to be responsible and safe digital citizens. We'll explore the digital citizenship curriculum, including hands-on learning through a fun breakout box activity that simulates real-world online dilemmas. In addition, we'll discuss practical strategies for managing screen time, promoting positive online interactions, and creating a balanced digital life. We will also talk about what it takes to help equip our kids in today’s online world with confidence and, most importantly, critical thinking skills.