Empowering Future Leaders
About the Program
The Fred Saigh Leadership Academy, launching in the fall of 2004, represents a transformative initiative designed to broaden the horizons of high school students with disabilities by offering them unique, community-related opportunities that extend far beyond the traditional classroom environment. This groundbreaking program, which selects up to 20 high school students each year, focuses on nurturing leadership potential and equipping students with the skills and experiences necessary to make a lasting impact on their schools and communities.
A Year of Growth and Leadership Development
The academy's year-long curriculum is carefully crafted to introduce, foster, and develop essential leadership skills. Students engage in a series of training sessions that not only teach them how to lead but also immerse them in real-world issues facing their communities. This hands-on approach ensures that participants not only learn theoretical concepts but also understand how to apply these concepts in practical, impactful ways.
Each month, students take a day to visit and explore key sites and locations throughout the metropolitan area. These visits are more than just educational field trips—they are carefully planned experiences that expose students to the institutions and leaders that drive the community's success.
Throughout the program, students are encouraged to think critically about their roles within their schools and communities. They are given the tools and confidence to campaign for school offices, manage significant school projects, and assume leadership positions that they may have previously viewed as beyond their reach. By the end of the program, these students emerge as empowered individuals, ready to take on challenges and inspire others. View the Schedule of Events for the 2024-2025 school year.
2023-2024 Leadership Academy class visits the Little Bit Foundation.
Meet the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy’s class of 2025:
Jamey Bready of Affton High School
DJ Burks of Clayton High School
Keli Ebmeyer of Lindbergh High School
Kaylie McCabe of Hazelwood West High School
Randon Hunt of North Technical High School
Raijah James of Affton High School
Angelina DeMille of Pattonville High School
John Kildea of Brentwood High School
Peter Lynch of Ladue Horton Watkins High School
Katelyn "Kip" MacDonald of Hazelwood West High School
Carter Mckay of Pattonville High School
Jerry Morgan of Jennings Senior High School
Preston Priest of Parkway West High School
Robbie Reed of Kirkwood High School
Carter Reynolds of Ladue Horton Watkins High School
A Life-Changing Experience
The program culminates in a graduation ceremony, where students have the opportunity to reflect on their journey and share their most memorable experiences. This event is not just a celebration of their achievements but also a testament to the personal growth they have experienced. Many students describe how the program has profoundly impacted their lives, giving them the confidence and skills to pursue leadership roles that they never imagined possible.
For students with disabilities, The Fred Saigh Leadership Academy is more than just an educational program—it is a life-changing opportunity. It opens doors to new experiences, fosters a sense of belonging and purpose, and equips them with the tools they need to become active, engaged leaders in their schools and communities. As these students return to their respective schools, they do so with a renewed sense of possibility and a determination to make a difference.
The Fred Saigh Leadership Academy is not just about developing future leaders; it is about empowering students with disabilities to realize their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society. Through this program, the Special Education Foundation is helping to create a more inclusive and vibrant community, one where every student has the opportunity to lead and succeed.
Applications are open through February 21, 2025 to nominate a student and for students to apply for the 2025-2026 class.
See the 2023-2024 Fred Saigh Leadership Academy Class
See the 2022-2023 Fred Saigh Leadership Academy Class
From the Newsroom
The Leadership Academy introduces, fosters and develops leadership skills and involves the students in issues that face the community
SEF aims to strengthen our partnership with educators, ensuring they are aware of the resources available to help students achieve success.
Learn more about SEF programs and how we support students, families and the educators within the Special School District of St. Louis County
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Karen Becker* Lindbergh High SchoolI believe the opportunities Henry has experienced in the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy have played a part in his accomplishments this year. We are thankful he has had this experience and we are grateful to the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy for all that they do for young people with disabilities!
