Westside High School’s Unified program continues to bring students together through events designed to connect those with and without intellectual disabilities, including its annual Unified Talent Show.
The event, one of the program’s largest each year, gives students the opportunity to perform on stage and showcase their talents.
“The talent show is kind of like our state championship,” Unified program teacher Zane Cozad said. “It’s our big project for the year where we really let our students go on stage and shine and have their moment.”
Students and mentors contribute to the event in a variety of ways, from organizing performances to hosting the show.
“I was hosting with Elliot,” student Ryder Samuelson said. “We made jokes and followed the script.”
Cozad said organizing the event requires coordination and planning to ensure all participants are included.
“I sent out a Google form to make sure everybody signs up that wants to be part of the program,” Cozad said.
Student mentors also play a key role in supporting participants throughout the process.
“Participating in it and helping students get backstage and practicing beforehand — that was really it,” mentor Anela Foster said.
Preparation for the show begins weeks in advance, with students rehearsing performances and learning routines.
“We started two to three weeks before the talent show,” mentor Hailey Potter said. “We learned our dance and practiced it.”
Foster said preparation for some performances took even longer.
“I’d go and hang out with Ellie during the week and we’d practice, so I’d say about a month,” Foster said.
The talent show featured a variety of acts, each bringing something unique to the stage. Students and staff highlighted several standout performances.
“Henry’s jokes are always amazing,” Foster said.
Cozad also pointed to a student performance inspired by film.
“One act was a scene from ‘Zootopia,’ which was a lot of fun,” he said.
One performance that drew particular attention was a Taekwondo demonstration by student Eden Carlson.
“Eden did Taekwondo and broke boards, which was really cool,” Foster said.
“For the first time ever, we had a Taekwondo act,” Cozad said. “It actually made me tear up. There was just something about it that was really special.”
The event carried emotional significance for many participants, particularly seniors experiencing the show for the final time.
“It made me cry. It was sad, but bittersweet,” Foster said.
Potter said the event remains one of her favorite experiences in the program.
“I love the Unified Talent Show. It’s my favorite thing we do,” Potter said. “Being a part of it for the last time was really emotional.”
School officials said the Unified program continues to welcome new members interested in participating and encourages students to contact Cozad for more information.
Through events like the talent show, the program aims to foster inclusion, build relationships and create opportunities for all students to be recognized and celebrated.
