The Special Education Foundation is proud to welcome the newest group of the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy—The Class of 2026! This innovative and inspiring program continues its mission to elevate high school students with disabilities by fostering leadership skills, building confidence, and providing meaningful opportunities to engage with the broader community.
Announcing the class of 2026:
Lucas Bemister of Affton High School & South Tech
Isaiah Brown of Clayton High School
Tanyla Chairse of Parkway North High School & North Tech
Phoebe Gross of Bayless High School
Mario Holmes of Valley Park High School & South Tech
Xavier Kadlec of Parkway South High School
Alen Kajtazovic of Bayless High School & South Tech
Lilly Kilgore of Parkway West High School
Alyssa Kuhstoss of Ladue Horton Watkins High School
Eric McMath of Riverview Gardens High School
Tyshawn Rice of McCluer High School
Christin Turntine of Brentwood High School
Empowering Students to Lead and Thrive
First launched in the fall of 2004, the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy is a year-long experience designed to unlock the leadership potential within students served by the Special School District. Each year, up to 20 high school students are selected to participate in this transformational initiative. These students, who come from a variety of backgrounds and schools across St. Louis County, are united by their drive to make a difference in their schools and communities.
This program isn’t about sitting in classrooms—it's about stepping into the real world. Through monthly site visits and immersive experiences across the St. Louis metropolitan area, students explore government buildings, nonprofit organizations, corporate offices, and civic landmarks.These firsthand experiences offer a rare and valuable look at the systems and leaders shaping the region, helping students envision their own roles in creating positive change.
A Journey of Personal and Professional Growth
Throughout the year, Leadership Academy participants engage in structured leadership training sessions focused on communication, goal setting, teamwork, and advocacy. These sessions encourage students to think critically about their values and passions while developing practical skills they can apply immediately.
As students grow in their understanding of leadership, they begin taking on responsibilities within their own schools—running for student government, organizing projects, and advocating for their peers. For many, these experiences mark the beginning of a lifelong journey of community involvement and service.
Looking Ahead: The Class of 2026
The Leadership Academy Class of 2026 brings a new wave of bright, motivated students eager to learn and lead. With the support of mentors, educators, and community leaders, this cohort will embark on a journey that challenges them to step outside their comfort zones, engage with complex issues, and discover the power of their own voices. See the schedule of monthly events, kicking off with a Getting Acquainted Meeting on August 23, 2025.
For students with disabilities, the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy is not just a program—it’s a turning point. It’s where they begin to see themselves not just as students, but as leaders, advocates, and agents of change. It’s where doors open, connections are made, and futures are reimagined.
As we celebrate the incoming Class of 2026, we also celebrate the continued success of a program that reflects the heart of the Special Education Foundation’s mission: to help every student reach their full potential and lead with purpose.
We can’t wait to see what this next class of young leaders will achieve!
