Community Inclusion Club hosts 2023 Talent Show

For the second time since the pandemic, Community Inclusion Club brought its talents to the North Band Room.

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Gianna Liu

Paraeducator Eric Kim ’14 plays with the ball drum circle at the Community Inclusion Club Talent Show on April 20.

Gianna Liu and Sachiko Goto

West High’s Community Inclusion Club hosted its annual Talent Show and Family Night Thursday, April 20 in the North Band Room. The event, hosted by special education teacher Steve Merkle, featured members of West High and Iowa City’s Community Inclusion Club performing music, dancing, and showcasing videos that they made. 

The night started out with the crowd getting a chance to mingle while deciding which raffle tickets to purchase. A silent auction was held throughout the event to raise money to help West High special needs students attend Camp Courageous, a non-profit camp for individuals of all ages with special needs. 

West High students showcased a variety of talents, including drumming, singing, dancing with rainbow scarves, and a cheer routine. Members of the Iowa City Community Inclusion Club performed a group dance as well. Raffle winners were announced in between acts by Merkle, and the show concluded with a large group dance that included audience members. 

The Iowa City Community Inclusion Club will be performing in City High’s upcoming Inclusion Club Showcase scheduled for May 10. Students interested in getting involved in this event can join West High’s Community Inclusion Club or talk to their counselor about volunteering in special education classes.