Every student deserves the opportunity to experience the power of the arts. Through SEF Presents! Arts in the Classroom, the Special Education Foundation (SEF) brings engaging, enriching arts experiences directly to students with disabilities across St. Louis County.
By partnering with talented local artists and arts organizations, SEF connects students with live theater, music, storytelling, and other creative experiences that encourage self-expression, spark curiosity, and make learning more meaningful. Supported by the Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis and the Schutte family, these opportunities allow students to explore new interests, experience different perspectives, and connect with the world around them in ways that extend beyond the traditional classroom.
For students with disabilities, accessible arts programming can also create valuable opportunities to build communication skills, develop confidence, express emotions, and participate in shared experiences with their peers. Through the arts, students can discover new ways to learn, engage, and share their unique voices.
This month, SEF Presents! is bringing the magic of live theater to even more students. Metro Theater Company recently performed at Southview School and will visit Summit Academy on October 20, giving students opportunities to experience the excitement of live performance right at school. This world premiere, one-woman production celebrates the extraordinary life of St. Louis icon Josephine Baker.
“The program was educational, engaging, restorative, and powerful. It held our young people’s attention and made a meaningful, positive impact. In work that can sometimes make it difficult to see the difference we’re making, your program was a powerful reminder. Your work helps make our community stronger.” ~Michael Wasem, Assistant Director, Detention Services, St. Louis County Family Court
Performed by St. Louis native Tyler White, the production combines music, storytelling, and history to introduce students to Josephine's courage, creativity, and determination. Students will discover how she overcame barriers and inspired generations, while being encouraged to find their own voices and embrace the power of resilience.
“It was really fun and kind of funny,” said Emmett, a Southview student. “It amped me up a little, but what I enjoyed was the part where she had to sing.”
“I really liked it, and I enjoyed learning about Josephine Baker,” said Teagan, a student. “I like how she would sing a lot, and I was imagining what was going on.”
Teacher Assistant Kristin Gleich added, “I love how it ties in the arts and history. I like how it tells the story of history and how the kids get to see history in a different light.”
On October 21, SEF partnered with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra to bring students from the Jennings School District to a special performance of The Composer Is Dead, in collaboration with Metro Theater. These experiences are about more than an hour or two of entertainment. They give students the chance to discover something new, feel connected to their community, and see what is possible when creativity and opportunity come together.
Through SEF Presents! Arts in the Classroom, SEF is proud to help ensure students with disabilities have opportunities and accessibility to experience the arts, explore their potential, and create lasting memories- experiences that might otherwise be out of reach when traditional school funding doesn't cover the cost.
