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The Fred Saigh Leadership Academy is a transformational initiative from the Special Education Foundation (SEF), dedicated to empowering high school students with disabilities through community-focused leadership training.

At the Special Education Foundation, this time of year is especially meaningful as we partner with the educators and staff of the Special School District to ensure that students with disabilities have the tools and opportunities they need to thrive.

A new school year is upon us, and the Special Education Foundation (SEF) team has been busy visiting schools and back-to-school events, meeting with educators and families across St. Louis County.

The Special Education Foundation is excited to once again partner with Vertical Raise to bring you unbeatable savings — all while making a meaningful difference in the lives of students with disabilities.

This week, we’re proud to shine the spotlight on one of our valued sponsors: Facilities Solutions Group (FSG).

We’re excited to reveal three more standout baskets that will be featured in this year’s silent auction. Each one has been thoughtfully curated by SEF’s Golf Committee to appeal to a wide range of interests—and to help raise vital funds for students with disabilities across St. Louis County.

Each of these programs reflects SEF’s unwavering belief in the potential of every child

The event provided new SSD educators with the chance to shop for classroom materials and enjoy a warm welcome from the SEF team. Each teacher received a complimentary drink from the café, courtesy of SEF

SEF’s Classroom Innovation Grants bridge the financial gaps teachers face when developing creative, inclusive projects for students with disabilities.

Brinkmann operates under a truly unique entrepreneurial spirit, empowering their teams to think like owners and go beyond conventional limits to deliver real value

SEF was honored to be one of the recipients of a generous donation from Andrew’s Hugs—an organization dedicated to supporting people with special needs and the groups that serve them.

Whether you’re joining us on the course or swinging by for the evening festivities, here’s a sneak peek at three exciting auction items up for grabs

Thanks to the RAC and Shutte family’s continued sponsorships, SEF’s Arts in the Classroom is set ignite curiosity, creativity, and confidence in students with disabilities this coming school year.

During back-to-school orientations, SEF shares valuable SSD resources, programs, and funding opportunities for teachers and families

This Friday, July 18, is the deadline to join UB Greensfelder and other generous organizations in supporting SEF’s mission through sponsorship of the 23rd Annual Dan McLaughlin Charity Golf Tournament and Auction—and to receive the full sponsor benefits that come with it. This event not only raises essential funds for students with disabilities across St. Louis County but also unites community leaders, advocates, and friends for a day of golf, generosity, and purpose.

Thanks to generous donors, SEF provides financial assistance to families so their children can attend area camps during school breaks. These "camperships" are awarded based on financial need and student benefit, helping bridge the gap where public funding falls short.

Samuel Habib wants to move out of his parents’ home, start a career, and find a girlfriend, but he’s struggling to see how to fulfill his dreams amid the threat of unexpected seizures, barriers that come with relying on a communication device, and the limits of moving about in a wheelchair.

The Special Education Foundation (SEF) relies entirely on private donations to fund critical programs that help students thrive - This event helps fund everything from summer camp scholarships to classroom technology, emergency needs, and more.

For students with disabilities, the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy is not just a program—it’s a turning point. It’s where they begin to see themselves not just as students, but as leaders, advocates, and agents of change. It’s where doors open, connections are made, and futures are reimagined.

The Special Education Foundation is partnering with Vertical Raise to support SEF’s mission of assisting students with disabilities and picking up exclusive discounts from popular local and national brands. Your $25 donation gives you access to over 775,000 local and nationwide deals on restaurants, car washes, shopping, entertainment, hotels, and more!

For many students with disabilities, Adaptive Equipment is more than a tool—it’s a lifeline to communication, learning, and independence.

We help thousands of students with tools and opportunities needed to succeed in and out of the classroom. Every donation makes a difference. Every dollar helps us improve the lives of students.

Lou Fusz is playing a key role in helping SEF fund programs that open doors for students across the Special School District. Their support helps us provide summer camp scholarships, sensory and adaptive equipment, emergency support for families, and other vital services.

Inspired by the beloved Starfish Parable, this event is a reminder that even one act of kindness—one effort to lift someone up—can create lasting change.

Honoring the remarkable individuals who go above and beyond every day to make a difference in the lives of students with disabilities in St. Louis County.

Special Education Foundation is focused on planning for the upcoming school year and securing the necessary funding to fulfill our mission of supporting students who receive services from the Special School District of St. Louis County.

Designed to bridge the educational and social gap for students with autism, this program helps middle and high school students build the confidence, communication, and life skills they need to thrive.

When you find a cause that aligns with your passion and strengths, magic happens. Whether you join a committee, help with events, or volunteer at student programs, your involvement matters.

The Special Education Foundation is excited to announce the appointment of Annie Kuhl to our Board of Directors!

Whether you're a long-time supporter or new to SEF’s mission, we invite you to attend this moving and memorable event. The Starfish Awards will feature dinner, drinks, entertainment, and heartfelt stories that will leave you inspired and ready to create your own ripple effect.

Each year, nearly 300 golfers join us for a day of fun, fellowship, and fundraising, where the beneficiaries are students with disabilities.

LHM has long been a champion for community-based organizations across the St. Louis region, and we are honored to have their continued support in recognizing the individuals who go above and beyond to make a difference for students with disabilities.

Join us for a night that honors the quiet heroes, celebrates small acts with big impact, and reminds us all that one person can make a world of difference.

During the 2024-25 school year, SEF has provided over $260,000 in direct support through our programs to students, their families, and SSD educators

The Special Education Foundation’s Adaptive & Assistive Equipment Program is designed to help students with disabilities access tools and resources that enhance their quality of life and promote greater independence.

Whether you’re attending as a guest, educator, or sponsor, you’re helping celebrate those who make a lasting difference in the lives of students with disabilities—one individual at a time.

We know the end of the year is busy, but we also know that you care deeply about the students you serve. If you can, please consider donating — in any amount — to the Special Education Foundation today. Every dollar helps us invest in the bright futures of the students we serve together.

Want to stand beside Parkside Financial Bank & Trust and show your support? Sponsorship opportunities are still available—and every dollar goes toward recognizing those who make a lasting difference in our community.

Sponsors receive valuable exposure leading up to the event, recognition at the tournament, and the satisfaction of knowing their support directly benefits students with disabilities in St. Louis County.

Celebrating the graduation of the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy Class of 2025

The Special Education Foundation is proud to welcome Dr. Joylynn Pruitt-Adams to its Board of Directors

These honorees exemplify the spirit of the Starfish Story by creating lasting, positive impact through compassion, dedication, and daily acts of service

The Autism Independence Project has profoundly changed the lives of more than a dozen SSD students. It has enabled them to develop essential social skills, build friendships, and gain the confidence they need to thrive in the classroom and beyond.

The Special Education Foundation’s Autism Independence Project is a powerful partnership with iSocial to help students build independence and develop critical social skills.

Mr. T brings the Starfish story to life each day by being a steady, positive influence, shaping his students’ journeys through every interaction, every mile, and every moment of encouragement.

After 19 incredible years of unwavering dedication to the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy, Leadership Coordinator Debbie Smith is preparing to retire.

This joyful evening was a tribute to students who exemplify perseverance, leadership, and academic excellence.

this amazing event honors individuals from across St. Louis County who exemplify the spirit of the Starfish Parable—the timeless story of one person making a meaningful difference in the life of another.