The Special Education Advisory Committee held its annual awards ceremony on Wednesday, June 3 at Lightridge High School, honoring the students, staff and community members who support special education across LCPS. Honorees were nominated by peers, educators, families or community members. Excerpts from their nominations were read aloud as they came forward to receive recognition from attending school board members and local dignitaries.

The ceremony also featured two original songs performed by musicians from by A Place to Be, a therapeutic arts organization located in Leesburg that is dedicated to creating community, belonging, and hope through music therapy, performance and the expressive arts. 

Superintendent Dr. Aaron Spence reflected on the heart of the event, emphasizing that it was truly about celebration, joy and belonging. “Belonging is foundational to the human experience,” he shared. “It means knowing your strengths are recognized, your voice is heard, and that there are people who believe in your potential. The individuals we honor tonight help create those experiences every day.”

School Board Chair April Chandler highlighted that inclusive education is not simply a program or service, “it is a commitment to the belief that every student deserves to be seen, valued, challenged and supported.” 

Assistant Superintendent Tedra Richardson echoed this message, noting that “inclusion is a lived commitment. It is the daily decision to see a student not for what makes them different, but for who they are becoming and to design schools that respond with dignity, access and care.” At the heart of inclusion, she added, is something both simple and powerful: human connection.

The SEAC Awards once again showcased the dedication, compassion and partnership that strengthen special education in LCPS and the community that ensures every learner feels they truly belong.

See the SEAC webpage for the list of this year’s award winners.