Every school community has unique needs, and sometimes a relatively small investment can make a meaningful difference for students. That’s the idea behind the Special Education Foundation’s (SEF) Principal Grants, an initiative supported by the Women Leaders of SEF.
On Friday, September 11, 2026, the Women Leaders met with principals from Special School District (SSD) schools, including Summit Academy and Bridges, for the annual Principal Grant presentations. During these presentations, principals share ideas for projects that will enhance their students’ school experience, strengthen their school communities, or provide opportunities that might not otherwise be possible.
The Women Leaders then determine how SEF can help bring those ideas to life through Principal Grant funding.
2026 Principal Grant Awards
This year, a total of $11,386 in grants were awarded to schools across SSD to support a variety of student-centered needs and opportunities:
- Ackerman School: $2,480 toward Black History Month activities - T-shirts for staff and students, 15 new canvas photos that demonstrate student and staff commitments
- Litzsinger School: $1,550 toward 4 regulation stations - climbing walls, spinners, impact mats, crash pads, and obstacle course elements
- Neuwoehner High School: $1,225 toward their Field Day - BBQ and ice cream truck
- Northview High School: $1,841 toward their Spring Carnival - inflatable obstacle course, dunking booth, and game truck
- Southview School: $2,000 toward their End of the Year Glow Dance Celebration - student and staff T-shirts
- Summit Academy: $810 toward Graduation- supplies and caps, decor, and photography backdrop
- Bridges Program: $1,400 toward their Spring Celebration - student/staff T-shirts, ice cream bar, and game truck
From celebrations and school traditions to specialized equipment, student activities and projects that build connection and school pride, Principal Grants reflect the creativity and dedication of SSD school leaders—and the commitment of SEF’s Women Leaders to supporting their vision.
These grants are made possible through the generosity and fundraising efforts of the Women Leaders, whose work helps SEF provide resources directly to SSD schools and students.
Starfish Award Nominations Open Friday, October 16
The Women Leaders also lead one of SEF’s most meaningful annual celebrations: the Starfish Awards.
The Starfish Awards recognize individuals who make a lasting difference in the lives of students with disabilities through their compassion, dedication, and everyday actions. These honorees remind us that meaningful impact doesn’t always come from grand gestures. Often, it comes from someone who takes the time to listen, encourage, advocate, include, or simply make sure a student knows they are valued.
If you know an SSD educator, staff member, administrator, community partner, volunteer, or other individual who has made a meaningful difference in the life of a student, we encourage you to nominate them.
The 4th Annual Starfish Awards celebration will be held on June 10, 2027, at the Reverie STL in Chesterfield, where we will come together to recognize this year’s honorees and celebrate the people who make a difference every day.
Get Involved with Women Leaders
The Women Leaders are a dedicated group of volunteers who support SEF through fundraising, community engagement, special events, and programs such as the Principal Grants and Starfish Awards.
If you have a heart for supporting students with disabilities and would like to learn more about being part of SEF ‘s Women Leaders, contact us at info@sef-stl.org or 314-394-7036.
Your involvement can help make more opportunities possible for students across the Special School District.
