Each time we present a Starfish Award, we witness something incredible—an outpouring of gratitude for those who quietly and consistently change lives.

This week, we’re honored to introduce you to two more of our 2025 Starfish Award winners. Their surprise moments were filled with joy, pride, and heartfelt emotion—and we're excited to share this amazing news with you!

Bridget Linders Special Education Teacher Iveland Elementary School Ritenour District

Bridget Linders has spent more than a decade supporting students, currently serving as a social/emotional/behavior resource teacher at Iveland Elementary. Her dedication runs deep—not only through her years of service but also in her roots. Bridget’s mother was also a special education teacher with SSD, and the passion clearly runs in the family.

The classroom was filled with enthusiasm as we honored her in front of Iveland staff, leadership, colleagues, friends, and family. This moment highlighted the enduring impact of a committed educator.

Linders with husband, SEF staff, and SEF board members

Linders with fellow Iveland staff members

Linders with Ritenour District staff members

Linders with husband, mom and dad!

“When nobody else is in a child’s corner, Bridget is there. She builds lifelong relationships with students and their families, who keep in touch with her years after they have left elementary school. She is there every step of a way for our students, whether it be a pep talk in the morning to get their day off to the right start, a listening ear, or a comforting presence after a student has had a hard moment.”

Wendy Hopkins Paraprofessional Parkway South High School Parkway School District

Wendy Hopkins has supported students through Special School District since 1999, and she’s spent over a decade making a difference at Parkway South High. A rock of support for students and staff alike, Wendy’s dedication is unmatched.

Wendy's response to hearing she has won a Starfish Award, in the presence of school and district leadership, coworkers, and family, underscored her dedication and altruism in her daily efforts.

Hopkins with Parkway Superintendent, SEF staff and SEF board members

Hopkins with Parkway District staff

Hopkins with fellow Parkway South HS staff

Hopkins with husband, mom and daughter!

“In addition to her role as a paraprofessional, she spends time teaching students how to care for themselves so they are prepared for life after high school. This includes cleaning, washing, and styling the hair of girls who do not have access to such treatment at home. She has supported students through major life transitions, through tough losses, and hard- to learn life lessons.”

These videos are more than just heartwarming moments. They’re a reflection of the very best in education—people who believe in each child’s potential and show up with love, patience, and purpose.

Invest in Students with Disabilities Through Sponsorship

When you join us as a sponsor of the Starfish Awards, you're investing in the lives of students with disabilities and honoring the dedicated educators and staff who help them thrive every day. By sponsoring this powerful event, your organization can:

• Reach a broad and passionate audience of educators, families, and community leaders
• Directly support SEF programs that fund classroom grants, scholarships, and student enrichment within the Special School District (SSD)
• Share in the joy and inspiration of stories like Bridget’s and Wendy’s

The Starfish Awards offers a range of impactful sponsorship opportunities for organizations and individuals who want to champion these students and honor the educators who support them.

Become a Starfish Award Sponsor

Together, we can keep lifting up the stars in our schools—and making waves, one starfish at a time.

For more information about the 2nd Annual Starfish Awards, contact SEF Events Manager Jill Salinas jill@sef-stl.org | 865.405.4420