On February 18, 2026, adult education leaders, educators, and students gathered at the Visalia Wyndham for the California Council for Adult Education Central Section Awards Banquet. The evening celebrated dedication, service, and the powerful impact adult education has across our region.
The California Council for Adult Education, known as CCAE, is a statewide professional organization that advocates for adult learners and supports educators through leadership development, professional learning opportunities, and legislative engagement. The annual Central Section Awards Banquet recognizes individuals and programs that exemplify excellence in adult education.
This year’s event honored a wide range of award recipients, including certificated and classified staff, student award winners, retirees, and leaders who have made lasting contributions to adult education.
Among the highlighted awards were the Support Services Certificated Award, the David Escheleman Award, the Caroline Casida Award, and the Charles O. Peterson Classified Award. These honors recognize outstanding educators, administrators, and support professionals whose commitment ensures adult learners receive high quality instruction and meaningful opportunities.
The evening also celebrated student award recipients representing adult schools throughout the Central Section. These students embody perseverance, growth, and the transformative power of education. Their achievements reflect the core mission of adult education, which is to provide second chances, new beginnings, and pathways to career advancement.
In addition to recognizing excellence, the banquet acknowledged retirees who have dedicated years of service to adult education programs. Their leadership and commitment have strengthened schools, supported learners, and built lasting foundations for future success.
Events like the CCAE Awards Banquet highlight the collaborative spirit that drives adult education forward across the Central Valley and Eastern Sierra regions. Adult schools and consortia work together to provide programs such as high school diploma and GED preparation, English as a Second Language, career technical education, citizenship preparation, and workforce readiness.
The Kern Adult Education Consortium serves learners across Inyo, Kern, Mono, and Tulare counties. Throughout this diverse service region, adult education plays a critical role in expanding access to education and strengthening communities. By participating in regional events like this banquet, KAEC reinforces its commitment to advocacy, partnership, and student centered learning across the Central Valley and Eastern Sierra. We are also incredibly proud to see our partners and students celebrated in this way.
Celebrating the achievements of educators and students reminds us that adult education is about opportunity, empowerment, and community growth. It reflects the shared dedication of professionals who believe in lifelong learning and equitable access to education for all adults.
Congratulations to all CCAE Central Section award recipients. Your dedication strengthens adult education and inspires learners throughout our entire region.
Written by: Monika Roberts for the KAEC website