Rutherford County, TN - Dr. Annie Ralston, Special Education coordinator for Rutherford County Schools, has been awarded the Tennessee Association of Administrators in Special Education (TAASE) Cup, one of the state’s most prestigious honors recognizing excellence in special-education leadership.
The TAASE Cup is presented annually at the association’s Fall Legal Conference and honors administrators who demonstrate exceptional service, leadership, and dedication to meeting the needs of students with disabilities. Established in 2008, the memorial award pays tribute to four longtime champions of special education in Tennessee: Richard Yoakley, Paul Coffey, Jo Bellanti and Bruce Beaty.
Each year, four Cups are awarded statewide — one from each of Tennessee’s three regions and one at-large honoree selected by the TAASE board. Because recipients are nominated and chosen by fellow special-education administrators, the award is considered one of the most meaningful peer recognitions in the field.
Ralston was honored for her outstanding leadership, deep commitment to student success and unwavering support for teachers, families, and school-based teams. As RCS Special Education coordinator, she has helped improve services, strengthen collaboration, and ensure students with disabilities receive the individualized support they need to succeed.
The TAASE Cup highlights individuals who go above and beyond to ensure every student has access to a vast selection of educational opportunities. Ralston’s selection places her among an accomplished group of leaders who have made a significant and lasting impact on special education across Tennessee.
- Learn more here: https://taase.org
