Dear Laker Community,

As we move into this special time of year, we pause as a community to celebrate, honor, and reflect on the extraordinary journey of the graduating Class of 2026. This remarkable group of seniors has shaped the spirit of Windermere Prep in lasting ways through their leadership, resilience, and the energy they have brought to every corner of our school.

This has been a particularly impressive year for our seniors, especially in the college admissions process. Our students have earned acceptances to an outstanding range of universities and institutions across the country and around the world with destinations that reflect both their ambition and their character. Notably, we are also incredibly proud to share that two members of the Class of 2026 earned a combined three acceptances to United States Service Academies, an exceptional honor that speaks to their commitment, discipline, and desire to lead.

Our celebrations began earlier this spring with Leaving a Legacy on March 2, a special occasion dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the collective achievements and impact of the Class of 2026. This event honored the many ways in which this class has contributed to our school community, academically, athletically, artistically, and through service. It highlighted the lasting imprint they have made as a group on Windermere Prep.

On March 28, the Class of 2026 came together for an unforgettable Prom, an evening filled with elegance, joy, and well-earned celebration. It was a night that perfectly captured the bonds of friendship and the shared experiences that define this class.

Looking ahead, we are excited for a series of cherished milestones that will bring our community together in celebration.

Yesterday, April 22, a new tradition began. The seniors removed and took home their senior banners. The banners will allow families to share in the celebration. 

Today, April 23, our seniors will gather for Senior Sunset, an opportunity to come together, reflect, and celebrate as they near the end of their journey.

On April 24, our seniors will take part in Senior Breakfast and Walkout, a powerful and emotional tradition where they will share time together before making their symbolic walk through campus, cheered on by students, faculty, and staff. Later that evening, they will celebrate together at Grad Bash at Universal Studios, joining peers from across the country in a night of excitement and lasting memories.

On May 16, we will host Walk Down Laker Lane, offering our seniors the opportunity to revisit the spaces and people who have shaped their journey. It's one more chance to reconnect with the experiences that have defined their time at Windermere Prep.

Finally, we will come together on May 22 at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts for Graduation, where the Class of 2026 will cross the stage and officially begin their next chapter. It will be a moment of immense pride for our entire community.

The Class of 2026 has not only achieved great things; they have elevated our school through their presence, leadership, and commitment to excellence. Their legacy will continue to be felt long after they leave our halls.

To the Class of 2026: you leave here not only with accomplishments, but with the confidence, perspective, and character to make a meaningful difference in the world. Wherever your path leads, carry forward the values, relationships, and lessons you’ve built here. We look forward to seeing the impact you will make, and we will always be proud to call you Lakers.

Steve Murphy

Director of High School