Leah Alrutz is thrilled to be teaching in the Ladue School District. This is her 12th production at LMS! Her duties include instructing 5th-7th Grade Choirs, Musical Theatre classes, Directing the yearly musical, Putting on the Variety Show, and is the director of Viva Voce, Ladue High School's all treble a cappella group. Leah was born and raised in St. Louis, MO and attended Missouri State University in Springfield, MO where she received her Bachelors in Music Education with an emphasis in Vocal Music. She later went on to get her masters degree from Lindenwood University in Educational Technology. Leah also participates in Varsity Vocals- International Competition of Collegiate A Cappella and International Competition of High School A Cappella as the Midwest Producer. Other hobbies at LMS include helping with the the Ladue Ski Club, Sixth Grade Camp, LMS Social Committee, MCDA (Missouri Choral Directors Association), NEA, and LEA (Ladue Educators Association). Outside of work, you will find Leah around the community catching live performances and spending time with her 8 year old daughter, Ellie. She loves working with the wonderful staff, students, families, and community of Ladue. Congrats to the incredible cast of Mean Girls Jr!!!

Emily Stembridge Smith is excited to begin her first year with the Ladue School District, teaching 6th and 8th grade Theatre at LMS. Before joining Ladue, Emily was a teacher at STEAM Academy at McCluer South-Berkeley, where she contributed to productions such as Nevermore!, Peter and the Starcatcher, and Is He Dead?. Originally from Atlanta, Emily has an extensive background as both a performer and educator. She spent eight years on stage in Atlanta while earning a BA in Theatre & Performance Studies from Kennesaw State University. Alongside performing, she taught at a local Performing Arts studio and completed a performance internship at Actor’s Express, where she was twice nominated for the prestigious Suzi Bass Award for her acting. At LMS, Emily also supports the Drama Club and looks forward to expanding her involvement in the school community. She is deeply grateful for the mentorship of her colleagues, especially Jessica Winningham and Leah Alrutz, whose support has made her first year so rewarding. She would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff, students, and entire LMS community for their warmth and enthusiasm. Emily is proud to be part of the Mean Girls production! Congratulations to all!