CEC Awards and 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.
Contact information for questions about any of the award categories can be found in the relevant section below.
Learn about the prohibition on the use of AI tools in our awards and related programs.
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
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
Our Student Awards recognize CEC student members who have made outstanding contributions to the organization and to children with exceptionalities.
Racial Justice Grant
The CEC's Racial Justice Grant encourages and supports work focused on addressing the issues related to the ongoing racial disparities in educational experiences, opportunities, and outcomes for individuals with disabilities from minoritized racial groups.
The CEC Impact Award
The CEC Impact Award recognizes an individual or community/corporate organization that has had an impact on CEC’s strategic work.
CEC’s Diversity Leadership Academy
The Diversity Leadership Academy is a substantive professional development program established for special education professionals who share a commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the field of special education.
Legacy Proclamations
CEC Legacy Proclamations honor outstanding CEC members who have led and notably contributed to The Council’s various components (chapters, units, divisions, subdivisions), and national governing bodies and have significantly influenced the field throughout a lifelong career.