Disney Cruise Line and Walt Disney World Honor Orlando Teacher with Disney Treasure Surprise
Disney Cruise Line and Walt Disney World surprised Jackie Russell, a 2024 Orange County Public Schools Teacher of the Year nominee, with an inaugural sailing aboard the new Disney Treasure. Russell, a sixth-grade math teacher with 17 years of experience, was recognized for her innovative teaching methods and her dedication to student mentorship. The surprise was delivered by Adventurer Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Skipper Morgan following a Jungle Cruise ride at Walt Disney World.
Disney Cruise Line and Walt Disney World honored Orlando educator Jackie Russell with a surprise sailing aboard the new Disney Treasure, recognizing her nomination for the 2024 Orange County Public Schools Teacher of the Year award. The sixth-grade math teacher has spent 17 years inspiring students with inclusive, innovative methods and a mentoring program she built from the ground up. The surprise was orchestrated at the Jungle Cruise attraction at Walt Disney World, with Adventurer Mickey Mouse, Adventurer Minnie Mouse, and Skipper Morgan delivering the news.
Key Details
- Honoree: Jackie Russell, 6th-grade math teacher, Orange County Public Schools
- Recognition: 2024 Orange County Public Schools Teacher of the Year nominee
- Prize: Inaugural sailing aboard the Disney Treasure
- Ship Debut: December 2024
- Ship Venue Connection: Skipper Society lounge, inspired by Jungle Cruise
- Source: https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/ships/treasure/
In our wait-time readings for August 2026, Jungle Cruise posted a median standby wait of 30 minutes and peaked at 65, across 4,824 readings taken while it was operating.
Seventeen Years of Impact in Orlando's Classrooms
Jackie Russell has devoted nearly two decades to her students at an Orlando-area school, where her methods have helped achieve some of the highest math proficiency rates in the building. Beyond the classroom, she created a mentoring program designed to support students' academic and personal growth. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she launched a YouTube channel to ensure students could continue learning through math tutorials.
The Surprise Delivered on the Jungle Cruise
After disembarking the Jungle Cruise, Adventurer Mickey Mouse, Adventurer Minnie Mouse, and Skipper Morgan met the Russell family with the announcement that they would be sailing aboard the Disney Treasure during its inaugural season.
From the Jungle Cruise to Skipper Society
The Russell family's Jungle Cruise adventure will carry over directly to their voyage. The Disney Treasure features the Skipper Society, a one-of-a-kind lounge inspired by the iconic Jungle Cruise attractions at Disney Parks around the world. The venue pays tribute to legendary skippers and their expeditions on the Nile, Amazon, Congo, and other famous waterways.
What This Means for Educators and Cruise Fans
The Disney Treasure's inaugural season beginning December 2024 represents a milestone for the fleet. The Russell family's surprise is a reminder of how Disney marks excellence in community service. Families interested in the Disney Treasure's inaugural itineraries can find more at DisneyCruise.com.