Last week, students in the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy explored what it means to be active, engaged members of their community during their session on “Local Government in Action.” The day offered a powerful blend of learning, giving, and firsthand experiences designed to strengthen their growing leadership skills.
The group began their day with a visit to the Saigh Foundation, a long-standing partner of the Special Education Foundation and the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy. There, students presented three checks, each for $267, representing the proceeds from their annual Fred Saigh Leadership Car Wash held in September.
The students collectively chose to divide the funds among three local charities—STL Cares, St. Louis Children’s Hospital, and the Little Bit Foundation—organizations that reflect their compassion and desire to make a difference in the lives of others.
The afternoon continued with a visit to the St. Louis County Jail, located inside the Buzz Westfall Justice Center in Clayton, where they gained an eye-opening understanding of how local government agencies work to ensure public safety and rehabilitation.
Through guided discussions and tours, students learned about decision-making, accountability, and how community systems function behind the scenes—all key lessons in responsible leadership.
Tyshawn Rice of McCluer High School shares his session experience>> Click here to see his video.
These experiences steppingstones toward independence and confidence. The Fred Saigh Leadership Academy is designed to help students with disabilities strengthen their leadership, communication, and decision-making skills through real-world learning. By engaging directly with community institutions and philanthropic partners, students gain insight into civic responsibility, teamwork, and the impact of service.
Each session of the Academy builds on the idea that leadership is about action, empathy, and community. Through opportunities like these, students are not only learning about leadership—they’re living it.
