The donation will contribute to restoring the band program so students can march forward into the school year.
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. Sept. 13, 2019 —Following a devastating fire at East Ridge High School that damaged band equipment, rehearsal space, and students’ personal instruments, the Central Florida community came together with an outpouring of support to help the students through the unexpected challenge.
To lend another helping hand, Walt Disney World Resort announced today a $20,000 donation to East Ridge High School to help their band march forward through the school year. The donation will contribute to new band equipment and instruments, helping make the students’ dream of restoring their band program come true.
“When we heard the news, we knew we needed to offer our support to East Ridge High School and help make the students’ dream of restoring the band program come true,” said Rena Langley, senior vice president of public affairs at Walt Disney World Resort. “We have been so inspired by the community response and are delighted to be part of making a difference.”
Music and arts programs, like the one at East Ridge High School, offer students a sense of teamwork, camaraderie, and the chance to share their spirit and talent with their local community. Walt Disney World Resort has a long-standing history of supporting such programs in Central Florida, encouraging youth to step into the spotlight by exploring their passions for the arts.
“We are so thankful to Walt Disney World Resort for this incredible gift for our students,” said Diane Kornegay, Lake County Schools superintendent. “To see a company of this magnitude come to the aid of students at a time of loss is truly touching. It will make a lasting difference for these young musicians and the overall band program at East Ridge High School.”
Lake County Schools is the 19th largest school district in the state of Florida, serving more than 40,000 students as part of their mission to prepare the next generation for secondary education and the workforce. Earlier this year, Walt Disney World Resort recognized three exceptional Lake County students as Disney Dreamers and Doers Shining Stars as part of their commitment to supporting youth development and education in the Central Florida community.
In addition to helping East Ride High School rebuild their band program, Walt Disney World has also invested more than $1 million in the local arts community in 2019 alone, and more than $6 million in the last five years.
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