We are just one week away from the nomination deadline for the 2nd Annual Starfish Awards, and we need your help to celebrate the extraordinary people making a difference in the lives of students with disabilities.

Whether it’s a compassionate teacher, a dedicated paraprofessional, or an encouraging bus driver, these are the heroes who embody the spirit of the Starfish Parable—and they deserve to be celebrated.

The Starfish Awards are inspired by the timeless story of a person walking along a beach littered with starfish, tossing them back into the sea one by one. When questioned why they bothered—since they couldn’t save them all—they responded, “It made a difference to that one.”

This story perfectly reflects the work of those in our Special Education community who make a profound difference every day.

Who Should You Nominate?

Think about the people who go above and beyond for students with disabilities. Is there a teacher, whether general or special education, who stays late every day to adapt lessons to a student’s needs? A custodian who offers a kind word of encouragement to every child they meet? A paraprofessional who empowers students to reach goals they once thought impossible? Or a bus driver who turns a morning ride into the happiest part of a student’s day?

These are the people we’re looking for. They are the champions who see potential, meet challenges with creativity, and create meaningful connections that leave a lasting impact. Nominating someone for a Starfish Award isn’t just an act of recognition—it’s a chance to celebrate the difference they’ve made in the lives of students and families.

The Deadline to Nominate is Next Friday, December 20 — Act Now!

Visit StarfishAwards.org to submit your nomination. It only takes a few minutes, but your action could mean the world to someone who’s made a world of difference.

For assistance with submitting a nomination, contact SEF Events Manager Jill Salinas jill@sef-stl.org | (865) 405-4420

Become a Starfish Awards Sponsor

Looking to make an even greater impact? We are now accepting sponsorship opportunities for this special event, scheduled for June 2025. Your sponsorship helps ensure we can celebrate the achievements of these heroes and provide critical support to the students they inspire.

When you sponsor the Starfish Awards, you’re not just funding an event—you’re empowering a mission. Your sponsorship helps us honor the unsung heroes of special education and fuels the impactful programs of the Special Education Foundation. These programs include everything from sending kids to summer camps that promote independence to providing resources that help students excel in school and prepare for life.

As a sponsor, you will play a critical role in ensuring that these stories of inspiration and dedication are celebrated and shared with the community. Your name or organization will be recognized as a partner who believes in the power of inclusion, education, and opportunity. Plus, you’ll be joining a group of like-minded individuals and organizations committed to creating a brighter future for students with disabilities.

Why Your Support Matters

Every nomination, every sponsorship, and every act of support builds on our shared mission to uplift students with disabilities and the dedicated individuals who make their success possible. By nominating a Starfish Award candidate, you’re helping us highlight the compassion, ingenuity, and resilience that define our Special Education community.

By becoming a sponsor, you’re creating ripples of impact—funding programs that help students overcome barriers, achieve their goals, and realize their dreams. Together, we can show the world what it truly means to make a difference.

Join Us in Making a Difference

To learn more about sponsorship opportunities and how you can be part of this unforgettable celebration, please visit our website or contact SEF Events Manager Jill Salinas jill@sef-stl.org|(865) 405-4420.

Let’s work together to honor the individuals who remind us all that even small actions can create a big impact.