Special discounts for school groups?

[BraveMom3]

My son's band is thinking of going to WDW in April 2007, and although I've been with my children about 15 times, I have no idea about possible discounts for school groups. I would think that there would be some. Any idea where to find out about this or does anyone have any experience planning a trip for a school band? They are supposed to be participating in some sort of band clinic while there. Thanks!

 

[KCMiller]

My children's marching band goes down every 3 years - this December will be my second trip with the marching band. There is an entire department at WDW devoted to the school groups that travel there to perform in parades and shows (not just marching band, either - choral groups, show groups, etc.). Go to www.disneyyouthgroups.com and you can find out more.

We also use a travel agent to arrange the whole thing - there are agencies which specialize in youth group travel to Disney. If you PM me, I can tell you who we've used in the past, but if you do a Google search, you'll come up with more. Do you have a band boosters organization? You probably should talk to them and to the school district for guidelines before you go too far down the road on your own. Other schools in the area also might be a good resource - call other high schools to see if they've gone, and if they can share advice with you.

Best of luck,

KC

 

[BraveMom3]

Thanks, KC. I will definitely check out that website!

 

[sumrmist]

My oldest daughter went three years ago with her 5th grade class. They did the Y.E.S. program(youth education series) They used a travel agent here where we live in Alabama that specializes in educational tours. The cost that year was $595 per child and $605 per adult, for a three night stay. When they got on the bus to leave they were all handed back $100 per person for their meals.They stayed at the All Star Movies. That price included hotel, parkl hoppers and transportation. We live in Central Alabama so they took a charter bus. They made it in 10 hours.

We will be going in February with my next oldest daughters 5th grade group. This year it was a little more expensive but we will have a day at Sea World and we are going to Hoop De Doo Revue. It was $695 per child and $705 per adult with a $125 meal allowance that they will receive on the bus when they leave.

The best thing to do is find a travel agent that specializes in the educational tours , preferably one near your home town with a great reputation it sure makes it easier to get the school boards to approve these trips.

They are extremely fun and very educational. Im really looking forward to being back at Disney in February. Its espcially nice for the chaperones as the kids are in class till nearly lunchtime everyday and we have free time. YAY