Walt Disney World will begin reopening some of its resorts on June 22 and its theme parks on July 11. As a result, local unions have reported that Disney is starting to recall some of their cast members at select restaurants and resorts. So, what does this mean for the Disney College Program?
Eric Clinton, the leader of Local 362, stated in a call to its union members that the Disney College Program will not be resuming anytime soon. Disney is placing a focus on getting its full-time cast members back to work and finding hours for cast members who may work at locations that won’t be immediately reopening. These cast members may take on roles that have usually been filled by Disney College Program participants, such as merchandise and dining.
The Disney College Program was initially suspended in March before Disney cancelled the current programs in April. At that time, Disney announced that Disney College Program participants would remain in good standing and would receive top priority once the program resumes.
While this is disappointing news for hopeful applicants to the Disney College Program, it’s nice to see full-time and part-time cast members receiving top priority.
Disney has not stated when they intend to resume the Disney College Program at this time.