Grade 3 Portage student receives a 'Yes I Can!' 

Caleb Reykdal has a shiny new piece of hardware to display at his home after a trip to Winnipeg last week.

Caleb and his family were joined by staff from École Crescentview School at the 33rd annual 'Yes I Can!' Awards, where he was praised for academic progress in the area of reading.

The award ceremony put on by the Manitoba Council for Exceptional Children (MCEC) recognizes students from across the province with exceptional needs in various areas, including academics, athletics, community service, employment, independent living skills and self-advocacy.

Jamie Blyth, a Resource Teacher at Ecole Crescentview School, says the award was well deserved as Caleb has gone the extra mile with his reading skills.

"More than some people would think that he could, and he's a great part of our school," explains Blyth.

Blyth says that everyone at the school is so proud of the progress that has been made.

"We were really excited for him to get this award and for us to be able to go and watch him receive it," she continues. "He was all smiles as he showed everybody his award."

Manitoba Minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning, Wayne Ewasko and Caleb Reykdal. (@minewasko on Twitter)

The Resource Teacher notes that Caleb was reading at a level zero last year and now has progressed to level ten.

From baseball to hockey and dinosaurs, Caleb, a Grade 3 student, will continue to advance with his love for reading, according to Blyth.

"We're very proud of Caleb and excited to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day on March 21st, as well. We're all going to wear mismatched socks," adds Blyth.