The Special Education Foundation propels students with scholarships for future success

Propelling students to future success.

The Special Education Foundation is proud to announce the 2024-2025 Scholarship recipients!

John Cary Scholarship Award: $5,000

Shayneisha Allen

of Parkway Central High School
Elle Bryant

of Ladue Horton Watkins High School
Anna Jones

of Brentwood High School
Trenton Watkins

of Parkway North High School
Mia Magaña

of Oakville Senior High School

Christopher Davis Scholarship Award: $2,500

Noah House

of Ritenour High School

About the Scholarship

Special Education Foundation established the John Cary Scholarship in 2016. In naming the $5,000 scholarship after him, the Foundation recognizes John Cary, the late superintendent of Special School District of St. Louis County, for his commitment to excellence and his tireless support of students with disabilities.

Criteria for Scholarships

The John Cary Scholarships will be given to graduating students who receive services from the Special School District of St. Louis County — special education and/or technical education – and who are planning to attend a four-year college, university, or trade school. The selected students will reflect the characteristics most admired by John Cary — resiliency, courage and determination. The scholarship committee looks for evidence of future success by considering academics, leadership and community volunteer activities, and success in athletics and/or the arts. Well-rounded individuals, particularly those with exceptional achievement in a particular area, are likely to be successful applicants. Overcoming obstacles carries weight in the screening process. Financial need and teacher recommendations are also considered. The funds may be used for tuition only.

Applications for the 2025-2026 school year will be available this fall to apply.

See the 2023 Scholarship recipients.

From the Newsroom

March 21, 2024

SEF Scholarship Winners Revealed!

byShannon Benedek

In honor of the late Superintendent John Cary, the Special Education Foundation established the John Cary Scholarship program to select those who reflect the characteristics most admired by him.