Walt Disney World is investing $1.3 million in Central Florida education and visited five elementary schools to give students an early preview of Cool Kids' Summer.
Teachers at each school received complimentary Walt Disney World theme park tickets.
Disney brought the Cool Kids' Summer preview to one school in each of the five participating counties:
- Engelwood Elementary School — Orange County
- St. Cloud Elementary School — Osceola County
- Eustis Heights Elementary School — Lake County
- Jesse Keen Elementary School — Polk County
- Sterling Park Elementary School — Seminole County
Goofy and the Goof Troop made special appearances at each school, leading kindergarten and pre-kindergarten students through activities based on GoofyCore at EPCOT — one of the new experiences coming to Walt Disney World during Cool Kids' Summer.
After the school day, teachers, administrators, and staff were invited to stay for a special appreciation event where each educator received Walt Disney World theme park tickets to use with their families.
Orange County Public Schools Superintendent Maria Vazquez said the investment recognizes teacher impact and encourages students to dream big.
Where the $1.3 Million Goes
The investment covers all five public school districts — Orange, Osceola, Lake, Polk, and Seminole counties — and also supports several Central Florida nonprofits and education programs:
- Elevate Orlando
- A Gift for Teaching
- Orlando Philharmonic Young People's Concert
- Disney Musicals in Schools through the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
The funding expands access to STEM, literacy, and arts education programs across the region.
Cool Kids' Summer Begins May 26
Cool Kids' Summer returns to Walt Disney World from May 26 through September 8, 2026, bringing new experiences, limited-time entertainment, and family-friendly activities across all four theme parks.
This summer's lineup includes Bluey and Bingo at Animal Kingdom, Jessie's Roundup at Magic Kingdom's Diamond Horseshoe, GoofyCore at EPCOT, and a new Mickey Mouse Clubhouse stage show at Hollywood Studios.
Returning guests also have new attractions to look forward to, including an updated Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin, Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets, and Soarin' Across America at EPCOT.
Disney Resort hotel guests get added perks during the season, including character appearances during early theme park entry and free water park access on check-in day.
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