Four Papillion La Vista Community Schools elementary schools came together last week for the annual Unified Basketball Tournament, a beloved tradition that brings students with and without disabilities onto the court side by side. Ashbury Elementary, Carriage Hill Elementary, La Vista West Elementary, and Parkview Heights Elementary all participated in the tournament, which was hosted at La Vista Middle School and drew enthusiastic crowds of family, friends, and staff supporters.

Unified Sports programs create competitive athletic opportunities designed around the principles of inclusion and shared participation. By pairing students with and without disabilities on the same teams, Unified Sports foster genuine relationships, mutual respect, and a shared sense of accomplishment — values that extend well beyond the gymnasium and into the broader school community. The basketball tournament has become a highlight of the school year for students, families, and staff alike.

The event was made possible through the dedication of staff members from all four participating schools, who organized logistics, coached athletes, and showed up to cheer their students on. Their commitment to making inclusive athletic opportunities available reflects the deep care that PLCS educators bring to every aspect of student life, including those experiences that happen outside the traditional classroom.

Unified Sports are a cornerstone of the Papillion La Vista Community Schools district's commitment to inclusive excellence. Programs like this one ensure that every student has the opportunity to experience the joy of competition, the pride of teamwork, and the warmth of a community that shows up to celebrate them. #PLCSMixtape #WeArePLCS