The York Catholic District School Board (YCDSB) and The Council for Exceptional Children, York Region Chapter #543 congratulate all the student and adult recipients of the 2024 Yes I Can! Awards.
This year, the annual Yes I Can! Awards was hosted at Richmond Green Secondary School on May 29th, 2024. It was a spectacular night, celebrating the amazing students, educators, parents and community partners of the YCDSB and the York Region District School Board.
Exceptional students are recognized for their accomplishments and significant achievements in the categories of School & Community, Academics, Arts, Self-Advocacy, Technology and Transition. YCDSB’s Student Services Department, in particular, wishes to congratulate all the winning students and thank them for their contributions to their school, home and community. We are so proud of your hard work and effort. Well done!
The Council for Exceptional Children also recognizes staff, parents and community members who have given outstanding service to the Catholic Education Centre (CEC) or who have contributed directly to the support and well-being of exceptional children and youth.
YCDSB and its Student Services Department congratulate the following winners for their outstanding work and commitment to supporting our exceptional students:
- Shaul Kochba (Store Owner) and Chris Elias (Store Manager) FreshCo Bathurst and Rutherford, Business Award Winners.
“Chris and Shaul have continually supported the Pathways to EmployABILITY Program by providing student placement opportunities.” - Natasha Lai, Parent of the Year Winner.
“Ms. Lai is a tireless advocate for students with special needs, a member of the York Catholic Parent Involvement Committee and the Angelman Syndrome Foundation of Canada” - Tracy Jones, 2023 Paraprofessional of the Year Winner.
“Ms. Jones’ dedication to student success is unwavering. She is a true team player and truly celebrates students’ assets and capabilities” - Nicole Sinclair, Teacher of the Year Winner.
“Ms. Sinclair dedicates herself to her students and the school community. She makes significant contributions to the growth of every student. She is a great collaborator, team player and the best!” - Ellen Miceli-Bush, Leader in Education Winner.
“Ellen’s effort is unmatched and she never hesitates in meeting the needs of learners. She has played an instrumental role in planning and facilitating PD for YCDSB’s literacy intervention programs.” - Diana Candido, 2024 President’s Award Winner.
“Ms. Candido, Superintendent of Education: Exceptional Learners, has been a strong advocate for students with disabilities. She has made a positive difference for our students today and in the future.”
Lastly, the council congratulates Lucas Santos, winner of a Yes, I Can award in School & Community. Lucas has been selected to be put forward for provincial recognition. His nomination highlighted his amazing contributions and leadership:
Lucas is a member of the Student Council and serves as the Faith Ambassador. He assists with monthly Virtue Award celebrations and is eager to help present awards, as well as help with the creation of the slide show used during the award ceremony. Lucas was also a founding member of Games Club, an extra-curricular activity that helps build social skills and provides friendship opportunities to students during the lunch hour. In Addition to school involvement, Lucas is an altar server at the local church and has received the Bishop’s Award for his service. Lucas is always eager to help out and it is an honour to nominate him for this award.
The provincial Yes I Can Awards will take place in late 2024. We wish the best of luck to Lucas and all of our provincial candidates.
Once again, thank you and congratulations to all the York Chapter 543 award recipients, as well as student performers and contributors, committee members, and guests.
The York Region Yes, I Can Awards will return in Spring 2025.
