2026 First-Class Awards: Nominations Open

First-Class Awards are presented each year to individuals who support, design, and/or implement inclusion activities that result in positive outcomes for students. The Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD) is seeking nominations for the First-Class Awards. This is a great opportunity for the community to recognize and celebrate the inclusion efforts of educators, administrators, and students who demonstrate inclusion of students with disabilities in all facets of education.

Nominees should demonstrate the following skills/criteria:

• Modelling excellence in their role relative to special education
• Positive impact that benefits disabled and non-disabled students alike
• Commitment to creating an inclusive environment and mindset

There are seven award categories with up to 14 awards:

1. Elementary: Teacher, Administrator, Student and School Support Staff (instructional assistant (IA), office staff, librarian, bus driver, cafeteria worker, etc.)
2. Middle, High School & Secondary: Teacher, Administrator, Student and School Support Staff (IA, office staff, librarian, bus driver, cafeteria worker, etc.)
3. Central Office: Any FCPS central office staff member (superintendent, assistant superintendent, executive principal, director, coordinator, specialist, resource teacher, administrative support, etc.)
4. Specialty Program Staff: Anyone assigned to a public day school, alternative school, home-based instruction, or other FCPS educational program not clearly defined as an elementary, middle, high, or secondary school
5. Specialist: Professional staff categorized as related service providers (speech language pathologist, counselor, occupational therapist, physical therapist, itinerant, etc.)
6. Team: Any team of two or more staff members who work together to support special education students, whether directly or indirectly. This award is not specific to a role; it may be awarded to any staff team (ex. administrators, teachers, related services, etc).
7. Community Partner: Any person or organization not employed by FCPS which contributes to excellence in special education
   
   

Complete this form to nominate an administrator, a staff member, or a student who has made an exceptional contribution to inclusive practices in Fairfax County Public Schools.

Nominations close February 20, 2026. For more information, email SpecialEdFamilyConf@fcps.edu.