The beginning of Lucky Lane's 75 year history begins with Helen 'Dee' Dunnagan. As highlighted in a St. Louis Post Dispatch article from August of 1954, Dee, a dedicated educator, originally founded the nursery school in Ladue that became known for its high standards and innovative approach to early childhood education. With a strong academic background, including degrees from Harris Teachers College, a B.S. degree at Missouri University and an M.A. from Columbia U in New York, and experience as a social worker & teacher, Dee opened the school in the basement of her home with just six students. As demand grew, she expanded by purchasing a nearby lot and eventually constructed a custom-designed building that supported the school’s philosophy of exploration, creativity, and unstructured learning.

 

The nursery school stood out for its emphasis on child-led discovery rather than rigid routines. Activities like swimming, nature walks, and creative play were central to the curriculum, with teachers serving more as facilitators than strict instructors. Dee believed children should be free to explore and express themselves, and she prioritized an environment that allowed for this. Over time, the school became a highly respected institution, drawing interest from across the community.

 

Eventually, Dee decided to give the school to a group of parents, forming a nonprofit corporation to continue its mission. She handed over the property, facilities, and leadership of the school while remaining on staff as a salaried employee. This decision was motivated by her desire to preserve the school’s philosophy and ensure its longevity beyond her personal involvement. Her act of generosity and trust in the community reflected her deep commitment to the value of early childhood education and to the families the school served.

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In 1953, Ladue Nursery School acquired 40 acres on which the current Lucky Lane Early Childhood sits. The land was partially donated by I.E. Millstone. The rest, as they say, is  history.