The Special Education Foundation is seeking nominations for the 2027 Starfish Awards — an honor that celebrates individuals who create lasting, meaningful change through small but powerful acts of kindness.
We’re looking for the special individuals who consistently go above and beyond to support students and families served by the Special School District (SSD) and its 22 partner districts in St. Louis County. These are the everyday heroes who show compassion when it matters most, inspire others through their actions, and make a lasting difference in the lives of students with disabilities.
Nominations Open Friday, October 16 — Who Do You Know?
Think about the people who make a difference every day. Is there an educator, family member, community partner, or other individual whose kindness and dedication deserve to be recognized? We want to hear their story!
Qualities of a Starfish Award Recipient:
- Consistently demonstrates unwavering compassion and kindness.
- Leaves a remarkable imprint on the lives of students and families within the Special School District and the 22 partner districts in St. Louis County
- Offers vital support during challenging circumstances.
- Their actions generate a ripple effect of positivity, creating a nurturing environment for all.
While nominees need not be exclusively educators, they should be individuals within the SSD community and the partner districts who have positively influenced those they serve.
Learn more about the Starfish Awards on our website.
The Story Behind the Starfish Award
The Starfish Award is inspired by the timeless story of a young boy walking along a beach, tossing stranded starfish back into the sea. When told he couldn’t possibly make a difference with so many, he picked up another starfish, threw it into the waves, and said, “I made a difference to that one.”
This story reminds us that even small acts of kindness can have a tremendous impact — a message that perfectly captures the spirit of the Starfish Award.
Watch the story come to life in this video:
The Starfish Awards are proudly supported by SEF’s Women Leaders, a dedicated group committed to making a difference in the lives of students with disabilities. Over the years, the Women Leaders have organized special events and fundraising efforts to bring innovative project ideas to life. Now in its fourth year, the Starfish Awards reflect their passion for recognizing and celebrating the extraordinary individuals who go above and beyond to support students with disabilities and make a lasting impact in their lives.
We can’t wait to receive your nominations. Help us shine a spotlight on the people whose compassion and dedication make a lasting impact!
Mark your calendar!
The 4th Annual Starfish Awards will be held on Thursday, June 10, 2027, at The Reverie STL in Chesterfield. Nominations open Friday, October 16, 2026. Who will you nominate?
