Georgia CEC
"Fueling the Road for Success"

What is Exceptional Children’s Week?

The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) initiated Exceptional Children’s Week (ECW) as a means to educate the public about children with disabilities and garner support for them and special education.  Since its inception, many CEC units have taken advantage of ECW to awaken an understanding of the needs and capabilities of exceptional children and the programs that support them in their communities and states or provinces.  ECW results in far-reaching benefits to students with exceptionalities.  In addition to increased public awareness, ECW gives community members an opportunity to become directly involved in the advancement of individuals with disabilities.  Professionals, parents, students, politicians, and the general public find themselves working together to enhance understanding and acceptance of individuals with exceptionalities.

Today, more than ever, America needs public support for special education and children and youth with exceptionalities.  Through legislation and new developments, special education has made great strides and educators have the tools they need to teach these students effectively.  As a result, the door is open for students with exceptionalities to achieve academic and life-long success.  We must not let these efforts falter through lack of support or resources.

By investing in the education of students with disabilities, they learn the skills they need to become independent, self-sufficient citizens—and often give back to their country not only their skills as employees but as integral parts of their communities.

ECW provides a golden opportunity to spread the word about special education, our successes, and the accomplishments of children with exceptionalities.