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St. James-Assiniboia School Division proud recipient of four Yes I Can! Awards

February 25, 2022

Yes I Can 2022 Banner_1.jpgA huge congratulations to four members of our St. James-Assiniboia School Division (SJASD) community for receiving their Yes I Can! awards from the Manitoba Council for Exceptional Children. The Manitoba Council for Exceptional Children (MCEC) is a provincial unit of The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC). The CEC is a major professional organization dedicated to improving the quality of education for exceptional children and youth with a range of abilities and disabilities.

The MCEC Yes I Can! Awards are presented to exceptional youth and education staff to recognize their achievements in the categories of academics, school and community activities, self-advocacy and transition.

Jackson Legault – Academics

Jackson L.jpg

​Jackson Legault is a grade 3 student who attends Buchanan School. He is the recipient of an Academic Award for his progress in many areas, including reading and writing. Jackson's positive attitude and cheerfulness contribute to his ongoing success. He is a valued member of the Buchanan school community! Congratulations, Jackson! 




Nolan Lawless - Academics

Nolan L.jpgNolan Lawless is a grade 2 student who attends Phoenix School. He was the recipient of an Academic Award for his perseverance and significant achievements he has made in meeting his goals. Nolan's laughter and enthusiasm are contagious, and he thoroughly enjoys interacting with his friends. Way to go, Jackson! We are very proud of you! 

This year, two educational assistants also received recognition for their dedication to our students. 



Kai Solomon – Educational Assistant of the Year

Kai Solomon.jpgWorking with the classroom teacher, Kai helps create a classroom culture of acceptance and inclusion, where all students feel welcomed and respected. Anybody who knows Kai enjoys being around them because they create a fun, safe atmosphere through a unique sense of humour that is well-suited to middle school. Kai finds innovative ways to include students, such as running an ASL Club where students can learn to sign. Kai has been instrumental in creating positive and safe spaces for LGBTQ2S+ students while providing education and awareness for all. Kai is an advocate for students and encourages them to accept themselves as they navigate their way through middle school. Kai recognizes the importance of learning beyond the classroom and uses their experience to help others as a speaker for the United Way. Kai also works with groups at the Rainbow Resource Centre to create safe spaces for others who are on their journeys. Kai is a role model and a valued member of the school community. 

Nichole Craig – Educational Assistant of the Year

Nicole Craig.jpgNicole demonstrates creativity, proficiency in technology, reliability, communication skills and job knowledge. She works collaboratively with classroom teachers, clinicians, and student services staff for the benefit of students. She can make caring connections with students, helping them feel safe and willing to take risks to expand their learning. For example, she knows the words to their favourite songs, favourite lines from a movie and their favourite dance moves. Nicole has a desire to expand her own knowledge and skills to create the best learning environment possible for the students she supports. Her skillful use of Pictello and Proloquo2go have a profound impact on the learning and communication skills of the students who have come to depend upon these valuable tools. Nicole goes above and beyond the expectations of her role to show students she cares about them.

The Manitoba Council for Exceptional Children is a non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for students with special needs and the Yes I Can! Awards highlight the achievements of those students. Congratulations to all of the award winners this year and all of your hard work.