SEPTA believes in honoring the extraordinary efforts of FCPS educators, administrators, paraprofessionals, specialists, students, schools, and community members who make a lasting impact on students with disabilities. These dedicated individuals work tirelessly to create opportunities, foster growth, and ensure every student receives the support they need.
Our annual awards ceremony celebrates those who go above and beyond in supporting students with disabilities. Nominees should be outstanding advocates for special education, demonstrating commitment and passion for empowering students with disabilities. Whether they work in inclusive classrooms, specialized settings, or anywhere in between, they deserve to be recognized for their hard work and dedication.
Anyone can submit a nomination. You do not need to be a SEPTA member to nominate someone or be nominated.
The 2024-2025 SEPTA Award categories are as follows:
Outstanding Special Education Teacher- Preschool
Outstanding Special Education Teacher – Elementary
Outstanding Special Education Teacher – Secondary
Outstanding General Education Teacher – Elementary
Outstanding General Education Teacher – Secondary
Outstanding Administrator- Elementary (Principals, Special Ed Chairs)
Outstanding Administrator – Secondary (Principals, Special Ed Chairs)
Outstanding Co-Curricular Staff (Specials, Electives, Assistive Technology, After School)
Outstanding Instructional Support Staff (Instructional Assistant/Public Heath Attendant/Public Health Training Assistant)
Outstanding Co-teaching team
Outstanding Related Services (Counselors, OT, PT, Speech, Adapted PE, Social Workers, Psychologists,etc.)
Outstanding Support Staff (Bus Drivers, Custodians, Cafeteria, Front Office Staff, etc. – can name a team)
Outstanding Central Office Staff (Procedural Support Liaisons, Behavior Intervention Teachers, Regional Staff, Central Office Staff, etc.)
Abbie Bachmore Memorial Award: Student Who Most Supports Inclusion
Outstanding Student (student with an IEP or 504 plan making positive contributions to the special education community in their actions or as a role model or leader)
Outstanding Inclusive Program
Community Champion for Special Education (Greater NOVA community Member)
Fairfax County Special Education PTA 