Since 2002, the Special Education Foundation has been bridging the financial gap for teachers of children with disabilities, who often have the best ideas for effective teaching methods but lack the funding to implement them. The Classroom Innovation Grants program empowers these educators to create and execute impactful, creative projects that enhance learning experiences for students with disabilities.
By providing financial assistance, the program transforms innovative ideas into reality, fostering enriched educational opportunities that go beyond the limitations of traditional funding. These projects not only benefit the students and classrooms they serve directly but also inspire replication in other educational settings, extending their impact far and wide.
Positive Impact and Driven Results
Ellen Palmquist of Parkway South High School shares results of her “Recreation Ready” project :
"For many students, identifying and engaging in recreation and leisure activities they can do independently comes naturally. This is not the case for many of my students. But being able to identify and engage in rec and leisure activities is an important life skill and usually a necessary one for obtaining entry into community based day programming.”
“This grant allowed students to participate in guided instruction involving free time choices, explore different types of activities, and work both individually and as a part of a group when engaging in breaks. It also promoted independence and autonomy when utilizing free time."
Neuwoehner Student Lounge
Litzsinger iReady Rewards Store
Ann Marie Guntli of Webster Groves High School shares results of the “Responsive Space for Quiet Lunch” project:
"Quiet lunch space is an alternative room used by students in grades 9-12. The grant was used to purchase seating, lighting, motivational posters, and many items for students to use to engage socially (card games, board games, and coloring books.) The quiet lunch space became more comfortable with lighting and seating that was not available in the cafeteria.”
“Students were more comfortable and relaxed in the environment, which allowed them to make social connections which otherwise would not be possible. Games and coloring activities were offered to students as needed to help them socialize during the lunch space.”
The Special Education Foundation is excited to continue empowering teachers through the Classroom Innovation Grants program in the upcoming year. We are currently reviewing submitted applications and look forward to supporting creative projects that make a meaningful impact on students with disabilities. By providing financial assistance, SEF remains committed to helping educators bring their innovative ideas to life, fostering enriched learning experiences and inspiring transformative change in classrooms and beyond.
