Way to Go: Anthony Vetere, Sayville

Anthony Vetere has won a national award in recognition of his efforts in overcoming challenges posed by autism.

Vetere, a freshman at Sayville High School, is one of 21 students nationwide to receive a 2012 Yes I Can! Award from the Council for Exceptional Children, an organization dedicated to the educational success of individuals with disabilities.

He was nominated in the arts category because of his "exceptional music abilities" by the district's special education coordinator Mary Bohleber.

"Music is my passion," said Vetere, 14. "I love being a piano player and piano accompanist."

Vetere, who had difficulty socializing with peers and working independently as a child, began to play piano in elementary school and by fifth grade accompanied his class as they sang in a graduation ceremony. He has received his district's Best Student Accompanist Award for three straight years.

"Anthony went from a child who could not sit in an assembly or be persuaded to get on stage with his class at parent assembles to a child who chose to play piano in front of peers at talent shows," said his school psychologist, Cara Donaldson.

Vetere and other winners were honored earlier this month at the council's 2012 convention and expo in Colorado.