The Unified Pair of the Month highlights students from our Special Olympics Kansas Unified Champion Schools who have been pillars of inclusion in their school community. This month, we are excited to introduce Tayber Witt and Aubrey Padfield, both students at Tonganoxie High School.
Tayber is a Unified Athlete who loves KU Sports, social media, and working at the local REC. For him, inclusion means “helping others and being there for them.” Tayber explained how being involved in Unified has helped him meet new people and feel more connected at school. He shared how Unified Sports has opened doors to new friendships and social opportunities. One of his favorite memories is traveling to Minnesota and playing at their stadium, a special experience that stands out for him.
Aubrey is a Unified Partner whose hobbies include spending time with her family and helping with school events. For her, inclusion is all about “bringing people together for a meaningful high school experience.” Aubrey mentioned how Unified Sports have helped her build relationships and develop leadership skills. She is proud to have started the first Unified Soccer team at her school, which has made a lasting impact on her and her peers.
Together, Tayber and Aubrey have participated in several Unified Sports, including Bowling, Soccer, and Basketball. They have been trailblazers at Tonganoxie High School, paving the way for future Unified athletes and partners. Their shared experiences have strengthened their bond and helped foster a more inclusive environment at their school.
Tayber and Aubrey are pillars of inclusion at Tonganoxie High School and within their local community. Their Unified Advisor, Parker Ast, who works with them closely, had this to say about the pair:
“Tayber and Aubrey have been incredible role models and trailblazers for inclusion at our school. Tayber brings enthusiasm and a genuine care for those around him, and Aubrey is a natural leader who is always ready to lend a hand. Their friendship has flourished through Unified Sports, and I’ve seen Tayber become more outgoing and confident, while Aubrey has grown as a leader. Their contributions to our Unified Sports programs have had a lasting impact, and I am excited to see how they continue to make a difference.”
The pair’s favorite memory together is playing in the Unified Soccer Tournament, where they helped launch the school’s very first Unified Soccer team. They also loved traveling for competitions and engaging with other Unified pairs from across the state.
Congratulations to Tayber and Aubrey for being selected as the Unified Pair of the Month for October!
