Former Lyon County Director of Special Education Miranda B. Reed and the Oldham County Schools Exceptional Children Services Program were recognized as recipients of the 2026 Grissom Award for Innovation in Special Education at the Kentucky Board of Education's Aug. 6 meeting.

Reed, who now serves as superintendent of Lyon County Schools after taking office on July 1, was honored for her work implementing forward-thinking initiatives that improved access, engagement and outcomes for students with disabilities during her tenure as the district's special education director.

Beyond her role in Lyon County, Reed has established herself as a mentor and leader in special education across Kentucky. She has presented at state conferences, served in leadership roles within the Kentucky Council for Exceptional Children, and taught aspiring administrators at the university level. In 2023, she was named West Kentucky Distinguished Administrator of the Year.

The Oldham County Schools Exceptional Children Services Program stands out for creating pathways for students with disabilities by connecting individualized transition supports to career exploration and community partnerships, according to the Kentucky Board of Education.

The Grissom Award is given annually to individuals or organizations demonstrating outstanding dedication to improving achievement for students with disabilities. The award is named after Johnnie Grissom, a longtime Kentucky Department of Education employee who served as associate commissioner for the Office of Special Instructional Services.

"As Awards Committee Chair, I'm truly proud to recognize two 2026 Grissom Award recipients whose work reflects what innovation in special education looks like in practice," said Julie Pile, KBE member.