Purpose: This award recognizes the exceptional dedication, adaptability, and instructional impact of itinerant teachers serving students who are deaf or hard of hearing across diverse educational settings. It honors educators who demonstrate innovative service delivery, foster inclusion, and advocate effectively for student success in mainstream environments.   

*Self-nominations accepted.

Eligibility: 

• Must be currently employed as an itinerant teacher of the deaf and hard of hearing. 
• Must serve students in two or more school sites or districts. Must have a minimum of three years of experience as an itinerant teacher. 
• Demonstrate excellence in collaboration, communication with teams and families, student advocacy, and service flexibility.
• Must be a current member of CAID in good standing.

Purpose: This award celebrates the outstanding achievements of center-based teachers who provide structured, specialized instruction to students who are deaf or hard of hearing within dedicated program classrooms. It recognizes educators who cultivate strong language development, student engagement, and a nurturing learning environment that supports academic and social-emotional growth.  

*Self-nominations accepted.

Eligibility: 

• Must be currently employed in a center-based classroom for students who are deaf or hard of hearing. 
• Must have at least three years of experience in a center-based or self-contained DHH classroom. 
• Demonstrate excellence in instructional strategies, language development, cultural competence, and creating a supportive classroom community.
• Must be a current member of CAID in good standing.

Purpose: CAID members are invited to propose innovative ideas—such as lessons, activities, or projects—to enhance the education of students who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing (DHH). Proposals may support individual students, small groups, entire schools, or the community. Applicants should clearly outline how the funds will be used to support their idea.

Eligibility: Any CAID member who interacts with students who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing is eligible to apply. This could be teachers of the deaf, SPED teachers, administrators, coordinators, etc.

Follow-Up Requirement: Award recipient(s) must follow up with the CAID Award Committee within one year of receiving the grant, unless alternative arrangements have been approved in advance. This follow-up should include sharing photos, videos, or other media documenting the implementation and impact of their project.

• Things to include in feedback, not an exhaustive list:
• What were the results?
• Reaction
• Personal Experience
• Student experience
• Did it go according to plan? 

All award and grant recipients will be notified by or before December 18, 2025.

 **Must log into your CAID account to apply