Propelling students to future success.
John Cary Scholarship Presented by Emerson
The 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.
Jane Vickrey Leadership Scholarship
The Special Education Foundation has established this scholarship in 2025, in beautiful remembrance of Jane Vickrey, who had a strong belief in giving back to the community. On retiring, Jane served as secretary on the Board of Directors of the Special Education Foundation. She served as the Board liaison to the Board's Fred Saigh Leadership Program which entailed her monthly participation in all leadership activities.
Criteria for Scholarships
The Special Education Foundation's Scholarships will be given to selected graduating students who receive services from the Special School District of St. Louis County – special education and/or technical education. Scholarships will be awarded towards tuition to those students seeking post-secondary education. Those who plan to attend a community college, university, trade school, or educational institution to obtain a certification are eligible to apply.
The John Cary Scholarship will be awarded to selected students will reflect the characteristics most admired by John Cary – resiliency, courage and determination. 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 Jane Vickrey Leadership Scholarship This $5,000 scholarship will be awarded to one student annually who has graduated from the Fred Saigh leadership Academy and reflects the characteristics of those who knew and admired Jane: kind, compassionate, courteous, hands-on with no agenda but to do good work. Financial need is also considered.
The funds awarded for the above scholarships may be used for tuition only.
Applications for the 2025-2026 school year are available through January 24, 2025.
See the 2024-2025 Scholarship recipients
John Cary Scholarship Award: $5,000
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Shayneisha Allenof Parkway Central High School
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Elle Bryantof Ladue Horton Watkins High School
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Anna Jonesof Brentwood High School
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Trenton Watkinsof Parkway North High School
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Mia Magaña
of Oakville Senior High School
Christopher Davis Scholarship Award: $2,500
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Noah Houseof Ritenour High School
See the 2023 Scholarship recipients.
From the Newsroom
The John Cary Scholarship is open to SSD graduating students who plan to pursue higher education at a four-year college, university, or trade school.
The John Cary Scholarship is open to SSD graduating students who plan to pursue higher education at a four-year college, university, or trade school.
Offering students with disabilities a life-changing opportunities to gain leadership skills and financial support for post-secondary education
