On September 5th, Windermere Preparatory School celebrated its service to the community for now a quarter of a century. The school has seen over a thousand students graduate since its opening in the year 2000 and the number of graduates will only continue to grow throughout the next 25 years.
For the days leading up to the anniversary, students were greeted each morning with announcements that gave facts from the first years of the school, showing how the school had grown and developed over time. Also, each student and faculty member was given a special celebratory shirt so for the first time, the entire school community would be wearing the same exact shirt in a show of unity.
The middle school students began the day by all lining up in the morning and waving at the cars that were dropping off students. They were able to celebrate the anniversary and help get the other students and their families excited for the day ahead.
Throughout the day of the anniversary, students were also able to receive commemorative items that were being passed out, including stickers and bracelets to bring home with them.
For high school students, the celebrations began during their fourth period core class when they went and saw a short documentary on the founding of the school. In this ten minute video, people such as the first headmaster, the founder, teachers, and graduates, all reflected back on their time with WPS and how it helped to shape their lives.
Furthermore, it was filled with short clips and photos of memorable moments including school trips, experiments, performances, and productions that seamlessly blended both current times and those of decades ago.
In addition, every student was allowed to sign a book, just as the first students had done many years ago. This was a way in which every student was able to leave a part of them behind with the school, showing they were here at such an important time.
Another way in which students could leave an impact was by having a brick purchased that would feature their names and an important message or quote. All students that had received a brick were able to attend a special “brick ceremony” with their families.
A time capsule was also buried by Alex Birchenall, the head of the school, along with members of the student government, in order to preserve memories for the future students who will be attending WPS.
The 25th anniversary of Windermere Preparatory School was truly a memorable day for all students, that allowed them to look to the past, as well as the future. In the next 25 years, there will be more friends met, dreams followed, and memories for life created.
Ramos, Liz. “Photos: Windermere Preparatory School 25th Anniversary.” West Orange Times & Observer, West Orange Times & Observer, 5 Sept. 2025, www.orangeobserver.com/news/2025/sep/05/photos-windermere-preparatory-school-25th-anniversary/.
