The Special Education Foundation invites our community partners, businesses, and advocates for children to join us as valued sponsors for the 2nd Annual Starfish Awards—an evening dedicated to celebrating those who make an extraordinary difference in the lives of students with disabilities in St. Louis County.
Set to take place on Thursday, June 12, 2025, this amazing event honors individuals from across St. Louis County who exemplify the spirit of the Starfish Parable—the timeless story of one person making a meaningful difference in the life of another. While they may not be able to help everyone, they choose to help someone, and that choice changes everything.
These honorees are the everyday heroes who create inclusive, supportive, and empowering environments for their students—often quietly, and without recognition. They include paraprofessionals, special education and general education teachers, bus drivers, aides, custodians, administrators, therapists, and countless others who go beyond their job descriptions to improve the lives of special education students served by the Special School District (SSD).
Our honorees are drawn from public school districts throughout St. Louis County, ensuring that this celebration represents a broad and diverse community of excellence. This year’s awardees come from not only the Special School District but also Hazelwood, Hancock Place, Parkway, Riverview Gardens, Lindbergh, Ritenour, and Rockwood school districts—a powerful reflection of the incredible dedication found throughout the region.
Amanda Moran - Dressel Elementary
Jamee Heidmann - Westridge Elementary
Wendy Hopkins - Parkway South High SchoolBecome a Sponsor for the Starfish Awards
This year’s celebration will be held at one of St. Louis County’s most exciting new venues: The Reverie at the District in Chesterfield. This stylish, modern event space offers a perfect setting for a night of inspiration and recognition.
Becoming a Sponsor of the Starfish Awards means helping us celebrate the teachers, paraprofessionals, aides, custodians, bus drivers, therapists, and others who consistently go the extra mile for their students. Your support allows SEF to host this meaningful event, provide our award winners with well-deserved recognition, and share their stories with a broader audience.
In return, sponsors receive visible recognition in Starfish Awards event materials, on-site signage throughout The Reverie, and across all SEF digital platforms, such as our website and social media pages. Certain sponsorships also guarantee tickets and sponsor-designated tables to further highlight your support.
Learn more about sponsorships for the 2nd Annual Starfish Awards
Whether you're a returning supporter or joining us for the first time, your involvement sends a clear message: you believe in honoring those who make a difference for students with disabilities in St. Louis County!
For more information about the 2nd Annual Starfish Awards, contact SEF Events Manager Jill Salinas jill@sef-stl.org | 865.405.4420
