With great pride and excitement, the Special Education Foundation announces the inaugural Starfish Awards, powered by SEF’s Women Leaders. Join us on June 13, 2024, at CityPark Stadium, home of the STL City Soccer Club, as we recognize those who make a difference, one individual at a time!

The Starfish Awards are a testament to the profound impact that individuals within the Special School District (SSD) make on the lives of students and families every day. This annual event seeks to shine a spotlight on those whose dedication and empathy serve as guiding lights for others.

As we prepare this inaugural event, we reflect on the timeless parable of the starfish on the shore. Inspired by the Starfish Story, like the child who throws starfish back into the ocean one by one, our nominees embody this spirit of compassion and resilience. They understand that even the smallest gestures of kindness can make a world of difference in the lives of others.

Do you know someone within the Special School District community whose actions, though seemingly small, have had a profound impact on the lives of students and families?

It's time to celebrate these unsung heroes and recognize their extraordinary contributions.

We invite you to nominate individuals who embody the spirit of the Starfish Awards. The Starfish Award is reserved for individuals who have brought about significant change through seemingly small yet deeply meaningful actions. Ideal candidates for this honor exhibit the following qualities:

• Consistently demonstrates unwavering compassion and kindness.
• Leaves a remarkable imprint on the lives of students and families within the Special School District and the 22 partner districts in St. Louis County
• Offers vital support during challenging circumstances.
• Their actions generate a ripple effect of positivity, creating a nurturing environment for all.

While nominees need not be exclusively educators, they should be individuals within the SSD community and the partner districts who have positively influenced those they serve.

To submit a nomination for the Starfish Awards, complete the nomination form here or contact us directly at jill@sef-stl.org. The deadline for nominations is March 31, 2024.

Sponsorship opportunities are now available, as well as tickets to attend this exciting event.