Kentucky Named Three Special Education Teacher Finalists
Three educators have been chosen as finalists for the state's 2026 award, with a winner to be announced this November.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Special Education
The Kentucky Department of Education has selected three educators as finalists for the 2026 Special Education Teacher of the Year award. These finalists emerged from a competitive pool of nearly 200 nominations submitted across the state.
Why it matters
Recognizing excellence in special education highlights the vital support these professionals provide to students with diverse learning needs throughout Kentucky. This award process brings attention to the specialized expertise required to foster inclusive school environments.
Three finalists were selected from a pool of nearly 200 total nominations. The winner will be named from these three candidates at the upcoming conference.
The players
Kaitlin Morris
An educator at North Warren Elementary School and a finalist for the state's special education teacher award.
Kimmie Curtis
A teacher at the Kentucky School for the Deaf who was named a finalist for the 2026 award.
Allison Slone
An educator based at Rowan Academy recognized as a finalist for her contributions to special education.
Kentucky Department of Education
The state agency responsible for overseeing public education and administering professional awards.
The details
The finalists include Kaitlin Morris from North Warren Elementary School, Kimmie Curtis from the Kentucky School for the Deaf, and Allison Slone from Rowan Academy. The selection process involved reviewing nominations submitted to the Kentucky Department of Education and the KYCEC to identify educators who demonstrate exceptional commitment to their students.
Timeline
November 23, 2026: The overall winner will be announced during the KYCEC Conference.
The Home Front
This selection follows the established pattern of the annual Kentucky Special Education Teacher of the Year award program. The state continues to emphasize high standards for inclusive classroom instruction through these professional milestones.
Parents of students receiving special education services may want to follow the upcoming award announcement as a way to engage with the educational community. You can monitor the official department communications to see how these recognized teaching methods might benefit local school programs.
The takeaway
Celebrating accomplished teachers can provide parents with valuable insights into the high-quality instructional practices currently used in special education. Keep an eye on local school district updates following the November 23 announcement for potential new teaching resources.
What happens next
The department of education will name the 2026 Kentucky Special Education Teacher of the Year on November 23, 2026, at the KYCEC Conference.
Further reading
Learn more about support resources for families by visiting the Special Education section.
