Papillion La Vista Community Schools in Nebraska has been nationally recognized by Special Olympics for its unified sports program, which brings together students of all abilities to compete, build friendships, and feel fully part of the school community.
Student voices celebrate the honor
“I feel hyped up. I’m just, like, ready,” said unified athlete Noah Mayberry of Papillion La Vista South High School, expressing excitement before stepping onto the basketball court in front of a supportive crowd. Mayberry, who has a deep passion for basketball, said the program allows him to play alongside peers and supporters, creating a sense of belonging that extends beyond the gym.
University of Nebraska‑Lincoln basketball commit Addison Medeck, also a student at Papillion La Vista South, first met Mayberry through the district’s peer‑aid program. “I think it’s super fun to get to know them,” Medeck said. “Seeing them in the hallways really helps. When you’re in their classroom, you get to build those types of relationships with them.” Medeck plans to study special education when she heads to Lincoln, underscoring how early exposure to inclusive environments can shape future career paths.
Family and staff see the impact
Mayberry’s mother, Alyssa, described the experience from the stands: “It’s really fun. Everybody feels included, everybody cheers for everybody. It’s awesome to watch other people cheer for your kid.” Special education staff noted that the district’s budget, approved by the school board, provides essential resources for unified activities both inside and outside the classroom.
Teacher Ian Bowers added, “Every unified activity, it’s hard to walk out of those without a smile on your face.” He highlighted that the connections forged through unified sports often continue after graduation. Bowers knows former students who have sought jobs in the Omaha metro while maintaining ties to the school community.
Recognition and future milestones
Special Olympics reviews applications for its national recognition every three years. While several Papillion La Vista schools—including La Vista Middle School and Liberty Middle School—are receiving the honor for the first time, Papillion La Vista South is preparing to celebrate its third such award. The repeated recognition underscores the district’s sustained commitment to inclusive athletics and peer support.
District officials emphasized that the unified sports model aligns with broader educational goals of fostering empathy, teamwork, and community engagement. By integrating students with special needs into mainstream athletic programs, the schools create a culture where every child can thrive academically and socially.
Looking ahead
As the district continues to expand its unified sports offerings, administrators plan to explore additional activities beyond basketball, aiming to reach more students across grade levels. Community partners and local businesses have expressed interest in supporting the program through sponsorships and volunteer opportunities, reinforcing the collaborative spirit that makes the initiative successful.
For families and residents of Papillion and La Vista, the Special Olympics honor serves as a reminder that inclusive education not only benefits individual students but also strengthens the entire community.
Original reporting: KMTV 3 News Now (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
