Making dreams come true: Support Cullman’s Special Education students’ dream trip to Disney

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Steven Cox, who is described as “a friend to everyone,” is seen on a previous trip to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. Cox is one of the students who will be participating is this life-changing trip to Disney. (April Borden)

CULLMAN, Ala. – Cullman High School is offering its Special Education students a life-changing opportunity with an upcoming trip to Disney. The adventure, designed to build essential life skills, will see students developing teamwork, responsibility and real-world experience through a series of pre-trip and on-site activities.

Students will be involved in planning their daily itineraries, learning how to navigate airports and amusement parks and budgeting their money.

“The life skills gained by this trip are endless, including socialization, time management, communication, self-advocacy, navigation skills, budgeting for the trip and overcoming sensory issues,” shared April Borden, a Cullman High School Special Education teacher.

In addition to these valuable lessons, the students will experience flying on a plane, riding a bus and managing queues – skills that will serve them well beyond the trip.

The trip is set for early 2025, and the team is currently raising funds to sponsor approximately 10 students, along with five teachers and staff chaperones. A total of 26 individuals, including students, chaperones, parents and siblings, are expected to attend. Each student’s cost is $1,800, and the priority is to ensure all students are fully sponsored, with any donations after going to help the chaperones. The deadline for donations and sponsorships is Jan. 15, 2025.

The school is also offering sponsorship opportunities for local businesses. Sponsors will receive a 100% tax deduction, and their logo will be displayed on T-shirts worn by the students inside the park. In addition, Cullman High School’s “Bearcat Buddies” club is selling T-shirts at all home games to raise funds.

“We are currently selling T-shirts as a fundraiser, which will be available at all Cullman home games for sales and donations,” explained Borden.

This trip provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the students, and community support is crucial to making it happen. Donations of any amount are welcome, and donors can submit a $100 deposit to secure a spot for a student, with the remaining balance to be covered later. Contributions can be made directly to Cullman High School Life Skills.

“I am grateful to be part of Cullman High School, where we receive unwavering support from colleagues and administration like Allison Tuggle, Aimee Bates, Aaron Sparks and Emily Hines, who go the extra mile to ensure our students are included,” Borden shared. “Thank you for considering this opportunity to enrich our students’ lives and make a lasting impact on their educational journey.”

For more information or to donate or sponsor a student, contact April Borden at 256-734-3923 or aborden@cullmancats.net.

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