News Summary
Windermere Preparatory School is celebrating its 25th anniversary, reflecting on significant growth from 175 to over 1,600 students. Under new leadership, the school aims to enhance academic achievement and innovation while maintaining strong traditions and community engagement. The anniversary festivities will commemorate the school’s rich history, bringing together alumni, staff, and students to celebrate a promising future.
Windermere, Florida — Windermere Preparatory School (WPS) is marking a significant milestone as it celebrates its 25th anniversary on September 5, 2025. Originally founded in 2000, the school has grown remarkably from just 175 students in pre-K through ninth grade to over 1,600 students participating in an international program that now spans pre-K through 12th grade.
New Head of School Alex Birchenall is spearheading this transformative era with a strategic vision designed to enhance academic achievement and foster innovation. Birchenall’s primary objective is to position WPS as Central Florida’s premier International Baccalaureate (IB) Continuum school. This vision is supported by a dedicated team, including Angel Nguyen, who serves as the Director of Admissions, Marketing & Communications. Her efforts have been instrumental in earning the title of Orlando’s Best Private School for over five consecutive years.
Financial sustainability is overseen by Jason Dukhi, the Director of Finance, who ensures the effective allocation of school resources across facilities, technology upgrades, and academic programming. Additionally, Lisa Rovetto Blythe, the Director of Human Resources, is committed to recruiting and retaining high-quality faculty members, which is essential for maintaining the school’s educational standards.
Windermere Prep prides itself on a strong tradition of community engagement and innovative educational practices. A notable example of its unique learning opportunities is the creation of a hands-on fossil dig site, allowing students to experience science outside the classroom.
The upcoming celebrations for the 25th anniversary will include welcoming back alumni, staff, and teachers, and the creation of a commemorative video that chronicles the school’s rich history. Festivities such as Laker Day will also invite participation from lower, middle, and high school students, creating an inclusive environment for commemorating this important occasion.
WPS has successfully retained its cherished traditions throughout the years. Annual ceremonies that symbolize educational transitions, such as “crossing the bridge” and “turning a page,” as well as fun events like the kindergarten teddy bear picnic, continue to foster school spirit and community involvement.
The school has experienced both triumphs and challenges in its journey. Community support was vital during challenging times, particularly when the school faced financial difficulties nearly leading to bankruptcy in 2003. Despite these hardships, Windermere Prep has maintained its identity and traditions through various ownership transitions, including Meritas Corporation in 2007 and Nord Anglia Education Inc. in 2016.
Another major achievement for Windermere Prep is its progress toward becoming an authorized IB World School. The IB Diploma Program is already in progress, while the school is currently a candidate for the IB Primary Years and Middle Years Programs. This commitment to international education includes unique programs that offer students experiences in diverse locations, such as Africa and the Swiss Alps.
The athletic program further contributes to a cohesive school environment by actively engaging students and fostering competitive spirit, particularly under the guidance of dedicated coaches, including Devin Bennett. The school community thrives across all grades, as evidenced by various student-led projects and events, such as the ceremonial burial of a time capsule to commemorate the school’s history.
As WPS celebrates its 25 years of growth, longstanding faculty members, including teachers like Kirsten Anderson, reflect on the sense of community and continuous development that has shaped the school over the years. This anniversary not only marks a celebration of the past but also sets the course for a promising future for Windermere Preparatory School.
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Additional Resources
- Orange Observer: Windermere Preparatory School Celebrates 25 Years
- Orange Observer: Windermere Prep’s 25th Anniversary Photos
- Orange Observer: Windermere Prep’s Offseason Growth
- Wikipedia: Windermere Preparatory School
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Private School
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
