The Special Education Foundation Women Leaders is a dynamic group of women dedicated to supporting children and youth with disabilities. Their mission focuses on funding special projects that benefit students with disabilities served by the Special School District of St. Louis County. Established in 2009, the group was formed in response to guests' interest at a friend-raiser in finding ways to contribute.

Each September, the Women Leaders and SEF staff meet with the principals of the Special School District schools, including those at the Juvenile Detention Center and Bridges Program. During these meetings, the principals provide insights into their school populations and present their proposed special projects. They seek the Women Leaders' assistance to bring these projects to life.

Here are some of the projects we helped support this past school year:

“This past year the SEF provided funds to support an ice cream truck and video game truck coming to school in an effort to foster positive vibes and memories while celebrating our students as they closed out the school year,” states Northview Principal Brian O’Connor.

“The SEF also provided funds in an effort to assist all students with having access to a school yearbook. The students and staff at Northview High School are so very grateful to the Special Education Foundation for their tremendous support over the years.”

Principal Niki Tedoni of Southview School shares, “Thanks to the generosity of the Women in Leaders Principals Grant we were able to purchase AMAZING neon t-shirts for all students and staff. To save on the cost, we ordered the t-shirts and decals and were able to use our own press to make the final product. Students in our SLC-Service Learning Center were able to assist in the process.

“Both the students and staff were so excited to receive their shirts. We passed them out before our End of the Year Glow Dance, and everyone was able to light up the room during the dance and throughout the day. We appreciate the continued support of the Women in Leaders Principals group!”

If you or someone you know is passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and youth with disabilities, we invite you to join our dynamic group of Women Leaders. For more information, please contact us at info@sef-stl.org or call (314) 394-7030. Together, we can continue to positively impact the lives of those we serve.