LEXINGTON, Ky. — Four students from Fayette County Public Schools have been selected as nominees for the Kentucky Council for Exceptional Children's 2025-26 "Yes I Can!" award, according to an announcement from FCPS.

The nominees are Ashley Campos Leon of Bryan Station High School, Brady Korn of Brenda Cowan Elementary, Maleah Jackson of Leestown Middle School, and Graham Newcomb of Arlington Elementary. The award program honors children and youth with special needs and recognizes their achievements across multiple categories.

The Kentucky Council for Exceptional Children is currently reviewing all nominees throughout July. Winners will be recognized at CEC's statewide conference scheduled for November in Louisville. One winner will be selected in each of six categories: Academics, Arts, Transition, Technology, School and Community Activities, and Self-Advocacy. State award winners advance to compete at the national level.

The "Yes I Can!" program is designed to celebrate accomplishments of students with exceptionalities and encourage them to pursue their highest potential. FCPS's Special Education Department provides comprehensive services including speech and language therapy, occupational and physical therapy, employment training, health and psychological services, and assistance for students with hearing and vision impairments.

The nomination process requires submission of detailed documentation including a statement of achievement, a video highlighting the student's work and accomplishments, and supporting evidence such as transcripts or records of activities. The selection process emphasizes the student's individual accomplishments and the impact of their achievements on themselves and others.