What It Is: "The Yes I Can! Awards were established to honor children and youth with disabilities who have excelled. More than 30,000 children and youth have been recognized since the program's inception in 1982. Each year, CEC selects approximately 27 winners for their outstanding achievements in one of nine categories: Academics, Arts, Athletics, Community Service, Employment, Extracurricular Activities, Independent Living Skills, Self-Advocacy, Technology."
Who's In Charge: "The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) is the largest international professional organization dedicated to improving the educational success of individuals with disabilities and/or gifts and talents. CEC advocates for appropriate governmental policies, sets professional standards, provides professional development, advocates for individuals with exceptionalities, and helps professionals obtain conditions and resources necessary for effective professional practice."
Why It's Worth Checking Out: You can still get your child's nomination in, but the deadline of October 9 is almost prohibitively close. Still, you can be inspired by past winners, and make a note to get an earlier start for next year.
Where to Start:
+ Page of the Day: Ten Reasons to Give Thanks for Your Child With Special Needs +
Thank you for spotlighting the Yes I Can! Awards. The entries should be postmarked by Friday 10/9 but if someone needs a couple extra days, I can probably accommodate them. Please contact me at annab@cec.sped.org with questions.