HOLLAND, Mich. (WZZM) - Special needs students from four West Michigan counties got to take center stage on Friday for a choir competition at the Midtown Center in Holland. 

Intermediate schools in Ottawa, Allegan, Barry, and Kalamazoo counties were singing and dancing to songs ranging from Singing in the Rain to the Lion King's, Hakuna Matata.  WZZM 13's Lakeshore Reporter Alex Shabad was one of the three judges in the event.  Organizers say it gives the students an unusual opportunity.

"People look at these kids and say, 'oh they can't do it', but these kids have such will power, such a positive attitude, they are so heartwarming, they can do anything they set their minds to. I've seen these kids accomplish great things that will just bring you to tears," says Maryanne Johnson, with the Ottawa County Intermediate School District.

The judge's decided that Kalamazoo's choir was the best overall.  The competition is in its third year and organizers say it will happen again next year.