The Disney Learning Project is an outgrowth of Disney's American Teacher Awards, an initiative that has honored teachers for classroom creativity since 1989. In addition to continuing the award program and producing the Creative Classroom series, Disney has developed the Creative Learning Communities grant program for public elementary schools. The Project also supports the Johns Hopkins University's Center on School, Family, and Community Partnerships, which encourages effective parent-teacher communication nationwide. Included in the kit are a documentary film hosted by Robin Williams and a 300-page companion resource book. One successful partnership featured is an effort by the West Des Moines, Iowa, Community School District to provide educational services to all community residents, not just school-age children.
Senior citizens are among the most active groups of learners.
The site, which has been honored with ENC's Digital Dozen Award , presents highlights of the kit. Visit the site for complete information on all the Foundation's activities. Currently under development are a documentary film and companion materials that highlight innovative efforts to prepare teachers and examples of how technology is helping them teach in new ways.