Empowering the Next Generation of Special Educators
The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) has launched ExceptionalTeachers.org, a new initiative designed to inspire and guide individuals exploring a career in special education.
Spearheaded by a dedicated workgroup of CEC educators, led by Dr. Kyena Cornelius and Dr. Danielle Kovach. and supported by staff and volunteers nationwide, the site offers clear, accessible information on entering the profession, including preparation pathways and state-specific certification requirements.
With a national shortage of qualified educators, the need for this initiative is urgent. “This shortage affects not only schools but, more importantly, the students with disabilities who deserve access to high-quality, specially designed instruction,” said Dr. Cornelius. “There was no central, user-friendly platform that both celebrated special education as a career and provided actionable pathways and resources for individuals considering or pursuing it.”
ExceptionalTeachers.org directly supports CEC’s Strategic Plan goal to “develop and support an effective and diverse workforce of special education professionals.” Future updates to the site will include classroom stories, pre-service teacher spotlights, and age-appropriate resources for students curious about the profession.
Inspired by successful state-level models in places like Michigan and Hawaii, the website was brought to life by a diverse team of teachers, administrators, higher education leaders, and CEC staff.
“We wanted to build a space that not only celebrates the rewards of this profession but also provides real, tangible support,” shared Dr. Kovach. “It’s all about empowering people with the information and inspiration they need to take that first step and to keep going.”
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One of the most common barriers is simply knowing where to start. With varying state requirements and preparation options, the path to becoming a special educator can feel overwhelming.
ExceptionalTeachers.org addresses this challenge head-on, offering step-by-step, state-by-state guidance and practical tools that demystify the process.
The site also aims to reframe common misconceptions by spotlighting real experiences. “Many special educators are concerned about workload and burnout,” Dr. Cornelius acknowledged. “The site aims to build both confidence and clarity for those on the fence and celebrate the incredible impact special educators have every day.”
Dr. Kovach added, “The truth is, you may not ever fully overcome the challenges, but you learn how to work through them. Some days are incredibly tough, and others are so rewarding that I feel like I’m on cloud nine.”
For both Drs. Cornelius and Kovach, special education is deeply personal. “I was hooked right away,” said Dr. Cornelius, who found her calling as a substitute teacher in a resource room. “That moment, watching a student move from frustration to confidence, solidified it.”
Today, that legacy continues in her family: Dr. Cornelius’s daughter, Julia Cornelius, is now a special educator herself. In her role, she mentors new special education teachers and often uses CEC resources to support her work.
Dr. Kovach’s own journey began as a teenager volunteering at a summer camp, and today, she proudly watches her son, Michael Kovach, follow in her footsteps as a special education teacher.
Both hope the site will become a growing national resource. “A living resource,” said Dr. Cornelius, “that adapts as the profession grows.”
Dr. Kovach echoed the sentiment: “I hope it grows into a go-to hub for inspiration, guidance, and support by helping more people enter the field, stay in it, and feel proud to be a special education teacher.”
