Higley High School's Best Buddies Carnival Brings Nearly 1,000 East Valley Students Together

The annual event pairs students with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities in one-to-one friendships.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Higley High School's annual Best Buddies Carnival will bring nearly 1,000 students from across the East Valley together for a celebration of friendship and inclusion. Hosted by Higley Unified School District in partnership with Best Buddies International, the event pairs students with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities in one-to-one friendships that extend far beyond the classroom.

Why it matters

The Best Buddies Carnival promotes inclusion and builds meaningful connections between students of all abilities, fostering a more accepting and supportive community in the East Valley.

The details

Through games, laughter, and shared moments, the carnival allows buddy pairs to develop friendships that boost confidence, leadership skills, and a stronger sense of belonging for everyone involved.

  • The annual Best Buddies Carnival takes place at Higley High School.

The players

Higley Unified School District

The school district hosting the annual Best Buddies Carnival in partnership with Best Buddies International.

Best Buddies International

A nonprofit organization that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

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The takeaway

The Best Buddies Carnival at Higley High School demonstrates how inclusive events can foster meaningful connections and a more accepting community for students of all abilities.