Each September, the Women Leaders and SEF staff convene with the principals of the Special School District schools (SSD), including the Juvenile Detention Center and Bridges Program. During this meeting, the principals present detailed insights into their student populations, along with Principal Grant proposals for special projects that could significantly enhance their students’ educational experiences.

Through the Women Leaders, SEF is able to provide essential resources for innovative projects that might otherwise go unfunded.

These projects often aim to improve social skills, foster independence, or provide adaptive technology to students with disabilities—offering them new opportunities for growth and learning.

For the 2024-2025 school year, $11,000 in funding was approved for the following projects:

• $2,000 to Ackerman School for the End of Year School Celebration on May 22, 2025
• $2,000 to Northview High School to purchase 150 yearbooks for students
• $800 to Litzsinger School to purchase spring shirts for the state assessment day; $1,000 for Afriky Lolo’s drum and dance troupe will be funded through the Arts in the Classroom program
• $1,200 to Neuwoehner High School for a bubble wall
• $2,000 to Southview School for school-wide T-shirts and funds for end of the year celebration
• $1,500 to the Juvenile Detention Center for new school branding and customized school apparel/gear 
• $1,500 to the Bridges Program for a 3-D Printer, boxes for each student, and supplies; weighted blankets will be donated  

The Women Leaders play a crucial role in turning these ideas into reality. This year, their fundraising efforts will provide $11,000 in Principal Grants empowering the principals to bring their creative and impactful visions to life. Whether it’s funding new technology, sensory equipment, or innovative programs that nurture independence, the Women Leaders' contributions have a lasting effect on the lives of students with disabilities.

The Special Education Foundation (SEF) Women Leaders is a dynamic and active group of women dedicated to supporting children and youth with disabilities in St. Louis County. Established in 2009, the group was born from the enthusiasm of guests attending a friend-raiser, eager to make a positive difference for students with disabilities. Since then, the Women Leaders have remained committed to funding special projects designed to enhance educational experiences and opportunities for students served by the Special School District (SSD).

The Women Leaders have organized a range of fundraising events, from fashion shows in year’s past, to the Starfish Awards this last summer, all with the singular purpose of helping students with disabilities. Their commitment goes beyond simply raising funds; they work directly with SSD school principals to ensure that their support meets the most pressing needs of the schools.

The group’s success in fundraising and advocacy continues to inspire, showing how a dedicated community can help create opportunities for children and youth with disabilities to thrive. Through their unwavering support of the Principal Grants program and Starfish Awards, the Women Leaders help pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for all students served by the Special School District.