A new school year is here, and the Special Education Foundation (SEF) team has been hitting the road! Over the past several weeks, we’ve joined Special School District (SSD) administrators and staff at back-to-school orientation sessions and events throughout St. Louis County.
From meeting new educators to reconnecting with familiar faces, we’ve enjoyed the opportunity to introduce SEF to staff, share the programs and resources available to SSD students and families, and hear directly from the people who know our students best.
We’ve visited 55 back-to-school orientation sessions and events across the county, and each stop has reminded us of the incredible dedication of SSD educators and staff. We’re excited to welcome everyone back for another school year and look forward to working alongside you throughout 2026–2027.
Maplewood Richmond Heights
Webster Groves
School District of Clayton
Neuwoehner High SchoolFor SSD Educators
The Special Education Foundation is here to be a resource and partner for educators serving students with disabilities. We know how much time, creativity, and care go into supporting students every day, and SEF offers programs designed to provide additional resources when needs extend beyond what traditional funding can cover.
Here are ways SEF can support you and your students:
Classroom Innovation Grants – Funding for creative, hands-on projects that bring innovative learning experiences into the classroom.
Student Aid Fund for Emergencies (S.A.F.E.) Program – Assistance for students and families experiencing urgent financial or personal challenges that may affect a student's ability to participate and succeed at school.
Adaptive & Assistive Equipment – Communication devices, assistive technology, hearing aids, eyeglasses, and other equipment that can help students learn, communicate, and become more independent.
- Arts in the Classroom – Opportunities that bring meaningful arts experiences directly to students and classrooms in the SSD schools.
Have an idea or see a need? We want to hear from you. SEF is always interested in learning how we can better support SSD educators and students.
For Parents & Caregivers
We know the beginning of a school year brings plenty of planning, questions, and new routines for families. SEF is here to help families learn about resources and opportunities available to students receiving services through SSD.
Our team has been attending back-to-school events throughout St. Louis County, connecting with families and sharing information about SEF programs.
Here are ways SEF can support your child(ren):
Autism Independence Project - personalized support and skill-building opportunities that help students with autism develop greater independence and confidence in everyday life.
Fred Saigh Leadership Academy – A leadership development program that gives high school students opportunities to build leadership skills, explore their communities, and develop confidence.
Kid-to-Camp – provides students with disabilities the opportunity to attend camp during school breaks, giving them meaningful experiences to build social, communication, independence, and life skills while having fun.
- Scholarships – opportunities to support students in their post-secondary education pursuits.
We're Here to Help
SEF programs are made possible through the generosity of donors and our strong partnership with SSD educators, administrators, families, and community supporters. Their support allows SEF to respond to needs and create opportunities that extend beyond what traditional school funding can provide.
As we begin the 2026–2027 school year, we encourage SSD educators and families to stay connected with SEF, explore our programs, and reach out when you see a need or have an idea.
We’re excited for the year ahead and look forward to celebrating the accomplishments of SSD students, educators, and families throughout the school year.
