The YES I CAN Award honors children and youth with exceptionalities who shine. CEC has recognized the accomplishments of thousands of students since the program started in 1982.

Students ages 3-21 are eligible for their achievements in these categories:

-Academics: achievement in a particular subject area such as math, science, reading, social
studies, language arts, or foreign language; overall academic achievement; or a high level of
achievement on standardized tests.

-Arts: achievement in a particular medium such as music, art, drama, dance, or written
expression.

-School and Community Activities: achievement in organized activities at the school or
community level through groups such as school-based clubs/activities (yearbook, theater,
debate, tutoring, peer mentoring, social, service) or community-based clubs/activities
(volunteer work, Boy/Girl Scouts, places of worship, service, cleanup campaigns).

-Self-Advocacy: achievement in assuming practical responsibility for oneself, using
knowledge of legal rights, advancing one’s goals, or effectively obtaining appropriate
accommodations for oneself or others.

-Technology: achievement through the use of assistive and adaptive technology devices and
equipment (computerized or otherwise).

-Transition: achievement in mastering activities that leads to successful experiences in the
areas of work, vocational training, or independent living.

The person nominating the individual must be a current CEC member.

*Award recipients will receive recognition on Wednesday, February 2nd, 2022, at 9:15 am at the annual Focus on Inclusion Conference in Indianapolis.