Somos Sunnyside: Episode 79 featuring Desert View's Unified Partners

At Desert View High School, the Unified Partners program is building a more inclusive school community, one friendship at a time. In this episode of Somos Sunnyside, we sit down with program coach and teacher Teresa Mortara, special education student Oscar Ancheta, and general education student Jose Yslava to explore how the program brings students together through sports, teamwork, and meaningful connections.

Through activities like bocce, bowling, and basketball, student athletes and their general education partners learn, compete, and grow alongside one another as they take on other schools and teams. But the impact extends far beyond the court or playing field. Students share how the program has helped them develop genuine friendships and connect with one another outside the classroom.

For the partners, the experience is an opportunity to see their fellow students in a new light and build friendships that extend beyond their everyday academic routines. For the athletes, it creates a welcoming space to participate, compete, and strengthen their connections with peers.

Through these relationships, Desert View is fostering a culture of inclusion, belonging, and community where students can learn from one another and build lasting friendships. The Unified Partners program is also offered at Sunnyside High School, helping expand these meaningful experiences across the district.

Tune in to hear from Teresa, Oscar, and Jose about how Unified Partners is making a difference at Desert View and proving that some of the most valuable lessons happen beyond the classroom.