In honor of the late Superintendent John Cary, the Special Education Foundation established the John Cary Scholarship program in 2016. This $5,000 scholarship pays tribute to his unwavering dedication to excellence and relentless advocacy for students with disabilities within the Special School District of St. Louis County.

The Special Education Foundation is proud to announce the 2024-2025 Scholarship recipients!

John Cary Scholarship Award: $5,000

Elle Bryant of Ladue Horton Watkins High School

Anna Jones of Brentwood High School

Shayneisha Allen of Parkway Central High School

Trenton Watkins of Parkway North High School

Mia Magaña of Oakville Senior High School 

Christopher Davis Scholarship Award: $2,500

Noah House of Ritenour High School

The selected students reflect the characteristics most admired by John Cary — resiliency, courage and determination. The scholarship committee looks for evidence of future success by considering academics, leadership and community volunteer activities, and success in athletics and/or the arts.

SEF is partnering with SSD for a combined awards evening- Inspiring Futures, to celebrate the student achievers. The celebration takes place on Thursday, May 9, 6:00 PM-7:30 PM, at the Emerson Auditorium in St. Luke's Hospital in Chesterfield.