Disney Cruise Line is helping hundreds of students kick off the new school year, donating essential school supplies, textbooks and laptops to schools in its port communities in Florida and in The Bahamas.
“It means so much to us to give back to the communities our ships visit so often and where many of our cast and crew members call home,” said Beth Thibodaux, director, external affairs, Disney Cruise Line. “Through this support, we hope to inspire local students to get excited about the new school year and their bright futures ahead.”
Florida
In Brevard County, Disney Cruise Line invested in the Brevard Schools Foundation to support back-to-school readiness for local students, funding key initiatives including the Supply Zone for Teachers, the Take Stock in Children mentoring and scholarship programs and resources for Endeavour Elementary School.
“Disney Cruise Line’s support will make a direct difference in the lives of students and teachers throughout Brevard County,” said Janice Kershaw, president/CEO Brevard Schools Foundation. “Together, we are building a foundation for success—one child, one classroom, one community at a time.”
In Broward County, Disney Dream crew members recently spent a day lending a helping hand to teachers from Jack & Jill Center’s Early Education Program as they prepare for the new school year. The volunteers worked together to set up classrooms and organize school supplies.
This support helps ease financial burdens and ensures children have the tools they need to succeed in school.
The Bahamas
In Abaco, where Disney Castaway Cay is located, Disney Cruise Line joined the community for its official kick-off to the new school year. Disney Cruise Line sponsored the South Abaco Back to School Jamboree, hosted by the South Abaco District Council. Disney Castaway Cay VoluntEARS distributed supplies and participated in sports and other fun activities with the kids to celebrate the new school year together.
In Eleuthera, students will have access to brand new laptops at Green Castle and Wemyss Bight Primary Schools to help spark their curiosity and fuel their learning adventures.
Recently, while the ship was in port at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney Magic crew members teamed up with students and dozens of community members at Wemyss Bight Primary School to enrich the school’s library – setting up new computers, printers, desk chairs, reading books and textbooks donated by Disney Cruise Line. They also decorated the space with inspirational designs and quotes. Each week, classes will use the updated library for computer practice, reading and homework support.
“Disney Cruise Line, you have made us so happy. We are celebrating, and we extend a big thank you,” said Clara Williams, who spearheaded this work. “For many years, we have worked very hard to secure a space for this library because knowledge is the key, and without knowledge we can’t go far. Our staff and volunteers have held on to our dream, and Disney Cruise Line has helped us make this dream come true.” Additionally, Disney Cruise Line supplied an air conditioning unit for the library to keep students comfortable during their time in the space.
In Nassau, students at Woodcock Primary School will head back to the classroom with valuable new resources and supplies, including laptops and textbooks.
“Disney Cruise Line is making a significant impact on our school by equipping our students with essential resources, including much-needed textbooks,” said Ms. Robertha Scott, principal, Woodcock Primary School. “This support lifts a tremendous weight off of many families who may otherwise struggle to prepare for the new school year.”
This support reflects Disney Cruise Line’s strong commitment to education and community, empowering students and educators across its port communities and providing them with the resources they need to be successful.
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