The Special Education Foundation is thrilled to announce the selected students for the 2024-2025 Fred Saigh Leadership Academy class. These exceptional individuals will embark on a year-long journey of leadership development and community engagement. Introducing the the class of 2025:

Jamey Bready, Affton High School

DJ Burks, Clayton High School

Keli Ebmeyer, Lindbergh High School

Kaylie McCabe, Hazelwood West High School

Raijah James, Affton High School

Angelina DeMille, Pattonville High School

Randon Hunt, North Technical High School

Jack Kildea, Brentwood High School

Peter Lynch, Ladue Horton Watkins High School

Katelyn MacDonald, Hazelwood West High School

Carter McKay, Pattonville High School

Noelle McSpadden, Parkway West High School

Jerry Morgan, Jennings Senior High School

Preston Priest, Parkway West High School

Robbie Reed, Kirkwood High School

Carter Reynolds, Ladue Horton Watkins High School

About the Program

Since its inception in the fall of 2004, the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy has aimed to broaden student horizons beyond the classroom by providing unique, community-related opportunities.

Each year, up to 20 high school students served by the Special School District of St. Louis County and demonstrating leadership potential are selected for a year-long training program. The curriculum is designed to introduce, foster, and develop leadership skills, engaging students with the community's pressing issues. By the end of the program, participants are well-equipped to campaign for school offices, manage school projects, and assume leadership positions. The program culminates in a graduation ceremony, where students share their most memorable experiences and the impact the program has had on their lives.

Throughout the year, students dedicate one day each month to visiting key sites and meeting leaders across the metropolitan area. This exposure to vital community institutions helps students understand how these entities effectively meet the needs of citizens. Past visits have included the St. Louis County Executive’s Office, the Missouri Botanical Gardens, and the State Capitol in Jefferson City, Missouri.

We are proud to welcome this new class and look forward to witnessing their growth and contributions to their schools and communities. The new class will come together on August 17 at the Special School District Central Office to get acquainted and an inside look at what the program will entail this year.

Applications to apply for the 2025-2026 class will open this fall.