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WILMINGTON – UNC Wilmington students held the eighth annual Spring Dance for area public school students with disabilities, an event that brought out more than 160 students.

The Student Council for Exceptional Students at UNC Wilmington hosted the Hawaiian luau-themed dance.

Teachers said that type of event is key to college students and the kids they help.

"It's essential because socialization, communication is a part of everyone's life, and these kids deserve that opportunity as well," Beth Cronin, of New Hanover County Schools, said.

According to UNCW professors, 15 percent of people in New Hanover County live with a disability. And events like this help the community to get together and understand those issues.

One of those top issues is a teacher shortage in the area of special education.

"We are trying to do what we can to recruit and get more good teachers in this field in special education," UNCW Associate Professor Linda Mechling said.

The goal of the program is to support exceptional students, promote awareness of the needs of students with disabilities, and foster understanding and acceptance in the community.