Council for Exceptional Children

The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) is a national, non-profit, professional organization dedicated to improving educational outcomes for individuals with exceptionalities, including disabilities, gifts, and/or talents. Established in 1922, the council accomplishes its mission, which is carried out in support of special education professionals and others working on behalf of individuals with exceptionalities, by advocating for appropriate government policies; setting professional standards; providing continuing professional development; advocating for newly and historically under-served individuals with exceptionalities; and assisting professionals achieve the conditions and resources necessary for effective professional practice. The CEC consists of 17 specialized divisions that provide additional focus and depth of information on a particular exceptionality or interest area in special education, such as The Council for Educational Diagnostic Services or the Division for Physical and Health Disabilities. Each of the 17 divisions publishes educational materials including journals, newsletters, books, and monographs; sponsors conferences and other professional developmental programs; and provides unique networking opportunities. The Council for Exceptional Children also produces educational materials including pamphlets; a research journal entitled “Exceptional Children”; a quarterly, classroom oriented magazine entitled “TEACHING Exceptional Children”; and a newsletter entitled “CEC Today,” which provides news on special education at the local, state/provincial, national, and international levels. In addition, CEC maintains a database of more than 70,000 print and non-print resources.