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CEC Award Programs

At the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC), we know special educators rarely receive the overwhelming appreciation they deserve.

From groundbreaking research to exemplary teaching practices, our award programs are a chance to celebrate the educators—and students—who are making a difference in special education.

Professional Awards

professional awards

Our Professional Awards recognize special educators who have advanced the field and the quality of special education service, as well as CEC members whose contributions have moved the Council forward in significant ways.

Yes I Can Awards

red shirt and smile

The Yes I Can Awards recognize the accomplishments of children and youth with exceptionalities (ages 3-21) in six categories: Academics, Arts, School and Community Activities, Self-Advocacy, Technology, and Transition.

Student Awards

two people and award

Our Student Awards recognize CEC student members who have made outstanding contributions to the organization and to children with exceptionalities.

BIPOC Travel Awards

A group of 6 African-American woman standing and smiling in the CEC 2020 Expo Hall

CEC invites Black, Indigenous and People of color (BIPOC) who are CEC members to submit an application for our new BIPOC Travel Awards for our annual convention.

The CEC Impact Award

Building Resilience in Special Educators

The CEC Impact Award recognizes an individual or community/corporate organization that has had an impact on CEC’s strategic work.

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