A group of Ag, Drafting and Construction students on a tour at Epcot.
Citrus High Goes to Disney: Learning Behind the Magic
By Student Writer: Bonnie Bunn
A group of Citrus High School students recently left the classroom behind to experience learning in a whole new environment—Walt Disney World. This year’s multi-department field trip split students between two parks, with Student Government and Culinary Arts students spending the day at Hollywood Studios, while Construction, Drafting, and Agriculture students explored the innovation and global culture of Epcot.
Each group participated in unique, hands-on activities designed to connect their classroom lessons to real-world industries and career paths.
A Taste of the Culinary Industry – Chef Garcia, Hollywood Studios
Chef Garcia’s Culinary students got a firsthand look at large-scale food production at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
“They got to see food prep on a large scale—how Disney goes about feeding thousands of people for breakfast and dinner,” he said. “A lot of people don’t pay attention to the world around them. They saw what everyone else sees, but they understand the work that goes into it behind the scenes.”
The trip also served as a team-building reward for students who had passed their industry certification exams. According to Garcia, the experience offered valuable life lessons. “If you don’t have a plan, you’re planning to fail,” he emphasized. “That’s something they could really see in action at Disney.”
Despite a few hiccups—like the challenge of tax-exempt purchases—Garcia said the trip was a success. “The students were grateful, they were having a great time, and everyone was on their best behavior. I got a lot of pictures and videos—that’s all I care about.”
Building the Future – Mr. Tester, Epcot
Construction students led by Mr. Tester had a hands-on look at the engineering marvels behind Disney’s attractions.
“Epcot was an ideal setting because we were able to analyze the design and construction of the rides from a technical perspective,” he explained. “We went behind the scenes at the American Adventure and the Ratatouille ride and saw electrical systems, actuators, and wiring that tied directly into what we cover in Construction 3.”
The field trip also expanded students’ understanding of their own potential. “We saw state-of-the-art electronics, advanced hydraulics—it opened their eyes to the kind of opportunities out there if they choose to pursue this after graduation.”
Drafting Meets Imagination – Mrs. Spaulding, Epcot
For Drafting students, the experience was about connecting classroom learning to immersive design.
“We wanted students to see how lines on paper become real structures and interactive environments,” said Mrs. Spaulding. “They learned how collaboration between engineers, designers, and artists makes those experiences possible.”
She added that Disney—especially Epcot—served as the perfect example. “Disney is known for its meticulous planning and attention to detail. Seeing how drafting and design create the park’s magic gave students new respect for their craft.”
Agriculture Goes Commercial – Mr. Spaulding, Epcot
In the “Behind the Seeds” greenhouse tour, Mr. Spaulding’s Agriculture students explored commercial farming on a grand scale.
“It was a great opportunity for students to see the bigger picture of planting and harvesting,” he said. “We do small-scale projects at Citrus High, but this showed them what it looks like on an industrial level.”
Students were able to draw connections between what they do in class—soil testing, land judging, greenhouse management—and what professionals are doing at Epcot.
Leadership in Action – Mrs. Stanton, Student Government, Hollywood Studios
Mrs. Stanton’s Student Government group didn’t just go to Disney—they competed.
“Every year we break the students into teams and give them over 100 tasks,” Stanton explained. “They interview cast members about leadership strategies, work together on challenges, and hunt down key items in a massive scavenger hunt. It’s all centered on teamwork and decision-making.”
She created the challenges herself, tailoring them to reflect leadership and strategy. “This year, students were so committed, they didn’t want the time to end. One team nearly completed every single task.”
The impact wasn’t just academic—it was emotional, too. “They were so observant, asking incredible questions. Even as a Disney regular, I learned things I’d never noticed. Their enthusiasm surprised me—in the best way.”
More Than Just a Trip
All the teachers agreed that the experience was unforgettable—and transformative.
“It will have a long impact,” said Chef Garcia. “Not just on the subject itself, but on their overall high school experience. I’ll keep doing it every year until I retire.”