Each fall, the Women Leaders — a dedicated group of passionate women within the Special Education Foundation (SEF) — host the Principal Grants presentations. On Friday, September 26, 2025, they’ll meet with principals from Special School District (SSD) schools, including those at the Summit Academy (formerly known as the Juvenile Detention Center) and the Bridges Program.
During this event, principals will share insights into their school communities and pitch innovative, student-centered projects that need funding. The Women Leaders play a vital role in evaluating and helping bring these plans to life.
In the 2024–2025 school year, these grants totaled $11,000, enabling a variety of impactful projects:
- Ackerman School’s end-of-year celebration
- Northview High’s 150 student yearbooks
- Litzsinger School’s spring assessment shirts (plus a separate dance troupe project funded by Arts in the Classroom)
- A bubble wall at Neuwoehner High School
- School T-shirts and celebration funds at Southview
- Branding and gear for Summit Academy
- A 3-D printer and supplies for the Bridges Program (with additional weighted blankets donated)
Also Powered by Women Leaders: The Starfish Awards
In addition to Principal Grants, the Women Leaders support the Starfish Awards — a moving celebration honoring individuals who make a difference through small, deeply meaningful actions. We come together each year to honor those who show us that even the smallest acts can create waves of impact, shaping lives and inspiring others to do the same.
Is there someone you know making a remarkable impact on SSD students’ lives?
Nominations for this year’s Starfish Awards are opening soon on Friday, October 17! Be sure to let us know who you think should be recognized once nominations are open.
Do you or someone you know have a heart for empowering children and youth with disabilities? Join our incredible community of Women Leaders and help create meaningful change. To learn more, reach out to us at info@sef-stl.org or call (314) 394-7030. Together, we can make a lasting difference for the students we serve.
