STAFF REPORT
Glasgow News 1
Nominations are open for the 2026 Kentucky Special Education Teacher of the Year, giving students, families and communities across the state a chance to recognize educators who go above and beyond for exceptional learners.
Barren County High School teacher Rayna Rudd was a finalist for the award in 2024, according to prior reporting, and Logan Brooks was in the top three in 2022.
Nominations will close June 30. The program is designed to highlight the dedication and impact of special education teachers working in Kentucky’s public schools, according to the Kentucky Council for Exceptional Children, which is partnering with the Kentucky Department of Education’s Office of Special Education and Early Learning,
Any full-time, certified public school special education teacher in Kentucky with at least five years of experience is eligible for the honor.
Nominations may be submitted by students, parents, colleagues, principals, superintendents or anyone in the community who wants to recognize an outstanding special educator.
Key Facts
• Nominations for the 2026 Kentucky Special Education Teacher of the Year are open until June 30.
• The program is led by the Kentucky Council for Exceptional Children and the Kentucky Department of Education’s Office of Special Education and Early Learning.
• Any full-time, certified public school special education teacher in Kentucky with at least five years of experience is eligible.
• Nominations may be submitted by students, parents, colleagues, principals, superintendents or other community members.
• Several local educators have previously been in the running, including Barren County High School teacher Rayna Rudd, a 2024 finalist.
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