From Overcoming Challenges to Winning Gold: How Zach Laviola’s Musical Talent Shines Through a “Yes I Can Award”

Zach's Milestone: The “Yes I Can Award” 

The journey to the CEC “Yes I Can Award” is one marked by resilience, advocacy, and incredible personal growth. Today, we spotlight Zach Laviola, a 2024 Yes I Can award for the Arts recipient and a remarkable young man who is medically fragile with multiple disabilities which include cerebral palsy, deafblindness, and a complex communication disorder.  Zach’s story exemplifies how this prestigious award can transform lives, celebrate achievements, and inspire others. 

Journey and Achievements 

Zach’s journey to receiving the 'Yes I Can Award' began with his distinctive musical talents, which initially went unrecognized by his school. Despite having perfect pitch and the ability to play complex musical arrangements effortlessly without ever receiving instruction, he was able to thrive. Zach and his mother’s advocated tirelessly for him to join the middle school jazz band and later push for recognition in high school. Despite setbacks, such as the school’s skepticism about his abilities, Zach’s mother’s unwavering support led him to achieve significant milestones, including winning a gold medal at the University Interscholastic League (UIL) state music competition. 

In high school, Zach took the initiative to advocate for himself. Feeling that he needed more musical instruction than what was available, his mother requested that he perform for his IEP team, as none of the members had ever heard him perform. Although the team was initially hesitant about holding the meeting in the auditorium, they eventually agreed when they learned it was because Zach wanted to showcase his skills on the grand piano. The night before the meeting, Zach taught himself to play Queen's "Don't Stop Me Now" and performed it, along with an entire Mozart Sonata. This powerful demonstration not only highlighted Zach’s exceptional musical talent but also illustrated how IEP meetings can be meaningful and personalized. For Zach, music was his primary form of communication, and his performance conveyed his message far more effectively than words alone. It was a poignant reminder that students can advocate for themselves in diverse ways and that showcasing abilities can often be more impactful than simply discussing them. 

Impact of the Award 

Learning about the “Yes I Can Award” was a moment of immense pride and honor for Zach’s family. They received an unexpected letter from CEC, informing them of Zach’s nomination, his win, and his invitation to attend the 2024 CEC Convention & Expo in San Antonio, TX. With additional support from the Texas Workforce Commission, Zach was able to accept the award and perform for convention attendees. This recognition significantly boosted Zach’s confidence, affirming that his voice and musical talents were valued despite his struggles with verbal communication. 

Since receiving the award, Zach has been invited to perform at a Perkins School for the Blind and has received mentorship from a Hollywood composer with autism. These experiences reinforce Zach’s belief and commonly stated quote that “individuals with complex needs can achieve greatness.” For Zach, the “Yes I Can Award” has been a powerful affirmation of his abilities and a catalyst for continued personal and professional growth. 

Inspiration for Others 

To families considering nominating their child for the “Yes I Can Award,” Zach’s mother offers invaluable advice: “embrace the nomination process and engage your child in recognizing their strengths.” The process can be an empowering experience for both the child and the family. Zach’s story underscores the importance of leveraging unique strengths and fighting for recognition within educational systems. For families and educators alike, it’s a reminder to focus on abilities rather than challenges, and to support individuals in showcasing their talents. 

Sharing Zach’s story is not just about celebrating his achievements but also about inspiring others to see the potential in every child with unique needs. By focusing on individual strengths and advocating for their recognition, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all students. 

If you’re interested in learning more about the Yes I Can Award, please check out more information about the award here. Nominations for the 2025 Yes I Can Award are now open until September 27.