Innovative teachers. Engaged students. Your support.
About the Program
Teachers of children with disabilities have the best insights into effective teaching methods. However, they often face financial limitations, as funds from regulated tax dollars may not cover the costs of enhanced projects. Since 2002, the Special Education Foundation has been bridging this gap, providing support where tax dollars fall short.
The Classroom Innovation Grants program empowers teachers to develop and implement creative projects that make a significant impact on students with disabilities. By providing financial assistance, the Special Education Foundation enables educators to bring their innovative ideas to life, creating enriching learning experiences that would otherwise be unattainable. These projects benefit not only the immediate classroom but also serve as models for replication in other educational settings, thereby amplifying their overall impact.
Application Guidelines
Eligibility and Preferences:
- Projects should be innovative and capable of being replicated in other settings.
- The Foundation does not fund items that should be covered by public funds, such as books and equipment, transportation, or staff development.
Reporting Requirements:
- Teachers are required to report their project results to SEF the following year by completing the Feedback Form.
To increase your chances of being awarded a grant, read Helpful Hints for Applying and be a stand out to reviewers.
Questions? Please contact the Foundation at info@sef-stl.org.
See the list of 2026-2027 Grant Recipients here.
See the list of 2025-2026 Grant Recipients here.
See the list of 2024-2025 Grant Recipients here.
See the list of 2023-2024 Grant Recipients here.
From the Newsroom
As the school year concludes, the volume of requests and the scale of support provided highlight a consistent theme: when students are given the right tools and opportunities, their potential expands significantly.
We understand how busy this time of year can be, but we also know your commitment to students doesn’t stop when the school year ends. If you are able, please consider making a gift of any amount to the Special Education Foundation today. Every dollar helps us invest in brighter, more inclusive futures for the students we serve together.
We celebrate the educators who continue to dream big for their students. Their creativity, compassion, and dedication remind us that innovation in education can transform lives—and with community support, even the most imaginative ideas can become reality.
