Each fall, the Women Leaders of the Special Education Foundation (SEF) join forces with the SEF Women Leaders to host a unique and powerful initiative: the Principal Grants. In these sessions, principals from Special School District (SSD) schools—including Bridges and Summit Academy, to share insights into their student populations and pitch special, needs-driven projects to bring new ideas and resources into their schools.
This year, the Women Leaders are providing $12,182 in Principal Grants
Litzsinger Garden
Southview Glow Party
Neuwoehner Outdoor SwingWhy Principal Grants Matter
The Principal Grants program embodies several core benefits:
- Because the principals themselves propose the projects, the grants are uniquely responsive to each school’s culture, needs, and priorities.
- Principals are not just passive applicants—they present, advocate, and partner in the project’s implementation.
- Many grant-funded projects support enrichment, community building, and creative enhancements that would otherwise exceed typical budgets (e.g., school apparel, celebrations, technology, student gear).
- The grants help support student morale, inclusion, and engagement. Projects like custom apparel, special celebrations, and new equipment can strengthen school identity, foster pride, and improve day-to-day learning environments.
- These funds help level the playing field. Schools in the SSD system often serve students with diverse developmental, behavioral, and social-emotional needs. The Principal Grants help ensure that even smaller or more specialized programs have access to creative resources.
“We are so excited to continue this journey and appreciate all of your support. Thank you!” ~Ann Hawkey of Summit Academ
“We are thrilled and deeply honored that Southview School has been awarded this year. It means so much to hear that our team's creativity and passion resonated with the Women Leaders.Thank you once again for your incredible commitment to education and for believing in the work we do at Southview School.” ~Dr. Niki Tedoni of Southview School
"Thank you SO VERY MUCH for fulfilling our request! We truly appreciate all your efforts to support our students, school and District.” ~Brian O’Conner of Northview School
The Principal Grants program is one of SEF and the Women Leaders’ signature efforts to bring targeted support to SSD schools. In addition, the Starfish Awards not only celebrate outstanding individuals in the SSD community, they also serve as a vital fundraising event and public showcase—raising the dollars and awareness needed to make programs like the Principal Grants possible.
Read more on our website how each school will be funded and the projects that will be supported. If you’re reading this and want to get involved, consider joining the Women Leaders. This shared experience reinforces the value of giving and allows people to see firsthand that their contribution “makes a wave” in students’ lives.
