The annual Chandler Unified Talent Show was held on Friday Oct. 27th, in Perry’s auditorium. Hearing all the singing and cheering along with the views of dancing, applause and an auditorium filled with endless smiling faces is sure to warm the heart.

Planned by self-contained teacher Heidi Peek and mostly organized by student officers and volunteers. A tradition that Peek has brought to Perry every year since she founded it. The self-contained program is for students faced with cognitive set backs, special scholastic needs,or other circumstances where the students needs assistance.

An abundance of work was put in to assure this year’s talent show lived up to expectation. Along with a high school from Queen Creek all the high schools in the chandler district hosted a performance for the show. Students who do not typically get the same opportunity as others have a chance to feel pride in him/herself for their talent. It’s Inspiring seeing these students independently showing their spotlight earning talents and genuinely seeing a smile across their face,when they hear that applause and it reassures then that they belong.

With this year’s theme of Disney Heroes vs. Villains, students performed songs from The Lion King, Pirates Of The Caribbean and High School Musical.

“Its free and beautiful like the kids just love it.”says Peek.This is an experience that involves a whole community, and makes an impact not only on the students but Perry as a whole. Student Officer Natalia Ramos who is also a Teacher Assistant for Peek was one key part in making the talent show possible, “Small details like that you don’t think are important are crucial” Ramos  explains. She explains how the talent show makes an impact on her individually, so of course an experience like this will impact others.

Peek explained through the years this event has just grown flourished and every year people want to make sure she has the show under way.

“When this program started, I only had five students originally and seven at the end,we have 55 now and there’s four teachers…every year we get more students”. Inspiring to see how throughout Perry’s years we have gained devotion on making these students feel welcome in our community. Acknowledging the special talents these students bring to Perry is a crucial part of uniting as a school. In previous years jr. high students also had an opportunity to perform,however now there is just not enough room. Instead they attend to watch the show, and gain more courage to perform during their high school timeline. The growth and impact this talent show has on everyone involved gives a reason to mark your calendars for next year’s show.