Through the generosity and dedication of the Special Education Foundation’s Women Leaders, the Principal Grants program continues to bring innovative, student-centered ideas to life in Special School District classrooms. These grants are designed to support projects that go beyond traditional funding—providing resources and experiences that empower students with disabilities to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
At Southview, the grant was used to create a student Amygdala reset space and Planetarium Challenger Learning Center Experience. This thoughtfully designed area supports emotional regulation and provides students with a safe, calming environment. For many students with sensory and emotional needs, having access to a dedicated space like this can be transformative. It allows them to decompress, regain focus, and return to the classroom ready to learn and engage.
Southview Principal Dr. Niki Tedoni also shared:
“On behalf of the students and staff at Southview School, I am writing to express our gratitude for the SEF grant that made our recent mobile planetarium visit possible.
For our special education students, traditional field trips can often be overwhelming due to logistical and sensory challenges. This grant allowed us to bring a world-class, immersive experience directly to their familiar environment.
Your support provided more than just a lesson in astronomy; it provided a shared community experience that all of our students were able to access and enjoy.
We are so grateful for the ongoing support of the Special Education Foundation in bringing these unique opportunities to Southview!”
The combination of emotional support and enriched educational experiences reflects the true purpose of the Women Leaders Principal Grants—meeting students where they are and giving them the tools they need to succeed in every aspect of their lives.
Because of the continued support of Women Leaders, schools like Southview are able to create environments that foster independence, confidence, and discovery. These grants are not just funding projects—they are opening doors, removing barriers, and helping students reach their full potential.
