The Special Education Foundation is excited to welcome the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy Class of 2027 as another year of leadership, learning, and personal growth gets underway.
The new class will gather for their Getting Acquainted Meeting on Saturday, August 22, where students, their families, and program mentors will meet one another, learn about the year ahead, and begin building the relationships that make the Academy such a transformative experience.
We welcome the following students to this year’s Academy:
Miles Bakai of Brentwood High School
Anthony Dodson of Affton High School
Asia Evans of Normandy High School
Erin Lenhardt of STEAM Academy at MSB
Ja'Den Meadows of Normandy High School
Dakari Moore of Riverview Gardens High School
Myles Pollack of Webster Groves High School
Mya St. Clair of Affton High School
Charlie Wan of Ladue Horton Watkins High School
The Academy officially kicks off on Friday, September 11, with its first leadership session and the annual Fred Saigh Leadership Academy Car Wash Fundraiser. This popular fundraiser supports three charities chosen specifically by the students, while giving students hands-on experience in teamwork, communication, and community engagement.
Reserve Your Car Wash Today!
This year's car wash will be held during the workday from 12:00–2:00 p.m. at the SSD Central Office - 12110 Clayton Road. To make scheduling convenient, two appointments are available every half hour, allowing participants to reserve a specific time slot and get back to their day quickly. Appointments are expected to fill fast, so we encourage everyone to sign up early to secure their preferred time.
About the Program
Since 2004, the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy has empowered high school students with disabilities by providing unique opportunities that extend beyond the classroom. Throughout the school year, students participate in interactive sessions focused on leadership development, self-advocacy, teamwork, community service, career exploration, and civic engagement. They gain confidence, build lasting friendships, and develop the skills needed to become leaders in their schools and communities.
Curious about what's ahead for the Class of 2027? View the complete calendar of leadership sessions, service projects, and special events by visiting the 2026–2027 Fred Saigh Leadership Academy Schedule.
We look forward to following this outstanding group of young leaders throughout the year and celebrating all they accomplish!
