Each day, educators, school staff, and community members across St. Louis County go above and beyond to support students with disabilities. Their efforts often go unnoticed, but their impact is life-changing. The Special Education Foundation’s Starfish Awards exists to honor these incredible individuals, shining a spotlight on those who make a real difference—one student at a time.
On Thursday, June 12, 2025, at The Reverie in Chesterfield, SEF will host the 2nd Annual Starfish Awards, an inspiring evening dedicated to celebrating these unsung heroes. We invite businesses, community leaders, and supporters like you to be a part of this special night as a sponsor, helping us recognize those who give so much to students with disabilities while also providing vital funding for SEF programs.
Why the Starfish Awards Matter
The Starfish Awards is rooted in the timeless Starfish Parable—a story of a young boy who, while walking along a beach, sees thousands of stranded starfish. He begins throwing them back into the sea one by one. A passerby tells him he can’t possibly save them all, and his efforts won’t make a difference. The boy picks up another starfish, tosses it into the ocean, and simply says, “It made a difference to that one.”
This philosophy mirrors what so many special education teachers, aides, bus drivers, paraprofessionals, and other school staff do every day. They may not be able to change the entire world, but their dedication changes the world for the students they serve.
Each year, SEF empowers students with disabilities by funding scholarships, classroom grants, assistive technology, and critical needs assistance. The Starfish Awards recognizes those who go the extra mile—ensuring that every student, regardless of their abilities, has access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.
Now, we invite YOU to be part of this impact.
An Unmatched Opportunity for Local Businesses and Community Leaders
Sponsoring the Starfish Awards is more than just supporting an event—it’s a chance to align your business with a cause that celebrates the individuals who make a profound impact on the lives of students with disabilities. It’s an opportunity to connect with educators, school leaders, and families who share your commitment to making a difference in our community.
As a sponsor, your business will gain prominent exposure in the Special Education Community while being featured in event materials, signage, and online promotions—highlighting your commitment to supporting students, educators, and inclusive education.
A few of our inaugural sponsors were featured at CITYPARK’s LED scoreboard.
Check Out Our Sponsorship Levels
Join Us for a Night of Celebration and Inspiration
In addition to sponsorship opportunities, individual tickets are available for those who want to attend and support SEF’s mission:
- Patron Ticket – $500 (Includes two tickets & program recognition)
- General Ticket – $125 (One ticket to the event)
- Educator Ticket – $50 (Special discounted ticket for school staff)
Whether you attend as a sponsor or guest, your presence at the Starfish Awards will help us honor those making a difference while raising funds to support students with disabilities across St. Louis County.
How Your Sponsorship Makes an Impact
The funds raised through the Starfish Awards help fuel SEF programs that directly benefit students. Your sponsorship will support initiatives such as:
Fred Saigh Leadership Academy – A leadership development program for students with disabilities.
Autism Independence Program – Helping young adults with autism build independence.
Classroom Innovation Grants – Providing resources for teachers to develop creative, inclusive learning experiences.
Adaptive Equipment & Critical Needs Assistance – Ensuring that students have access to wheelchairs, hearing aids, and other life-changing tools.
Kids-to-Camp Scholarships – Funding summer camp experiences tailored for students with disabilities.
For questions or more information about SEF’s 2nd Annual Starfish Awards, please contact SEF Events Manager Jill Salinas jill@sef-stl.org | (865) 405-4420
