The Special Education Foundation (SEF) is now accepting applications for its 2027 Scholarship Program! These scholarships provide financial assistance to graduating students served by the Special School District of St. Louis County (SSD), helping them pursue their postsecondary educational goals and take the next step toward a future filled with opportunity.
Whether students plan to attend a community college, university, trade school, or pursue a professional certification, tuition assistance can help make their goals more attainable. By easing some of the financial burden of continuing their education, SEF scholarships help students focus on learning, developing their skills, and preparing for meaningful careers and independent futures.
Scholarships That Support Student Success
SEF offers three scholarships recognizing students’ achievements, determination, leadership, and potential:
The John Cary Scholarship — Established in 2016, this $5,000 scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate resilience, courage, determination, and well-rounded achievement.
The Jane Vickrey Leadership Scholarship — Established in 2025, this $5,000 scholarship is awarded to a graduate of the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy who embodies kindness and community-minded leadership.
The Christopher Davis Scholarship — This $2,500 scholarship will be awarded to a deserving student from the Ritenour School District in memory of Christopher Davis.
Eligible applicants are graduating students who have received special education or technical education services through SSD and plan to continue their education at a college, university, trade school, or other credential-granting institution. Fred Saigh Leadership Academy graduates are also encouraged to apply for the John Cary and Jane Vickrey scholarships.
We caught up with Caidyn Harris, a graduate of Lafayette High School in the Rockwood School District. He is currently attending Webster University and shared about his first semester experience:
“My college experience so far has been lovely. I’ve met a lot of people and have been working on making my art better and have a better understanding of my own art style. I’m studying Art & Art History and Audio Production as a dual degree. I’m looking forward to working on a bigger scale, but also working with others and seeing what they come up with and seeing if I can expand more on my own creativity. Thank you for giving me the time to just talk about my time in college. I’m so glad I got into the college I wanted and get the opportunity to work with people with the same interests. I hope to make art that can change the world’s view on art.”
A Streamlined Application Process
SEF has simplified the scholarship application process to make applying easier for students and the educators supporting them.
Students complete the application themselves, with the option to work alongside their teacher for assistance. Each application must include a letter of recommendation from the student’s SSD teacher. Teachers no longer need to complete a separate nomination or application.
This streamlined process allows students to share their educational goals, accomplishments, and aspirations while receiving support from an educator who knows their strengths and potential. The deadline to apply is January 15, 2027.
Apply for a 2027 SEF Scholarship
SEF believes every student deserves the opportunity to pursue their educational goals. With the support of our donors, educators, and community, these scholarships help students take meaningful steps toward their futures.
Encourage a student to apply today! Help us recognize their achievements, support their postsecondary dreams, and inspire what comes next.
