Dear WPS Community,

In the fast-paced environment of Windermere Preparatory School, students are constantly juggling academic responsibilities, extracurricular activities, social lives, and personal well-being. Amid this whirlwind, the concept of balance becomes not just important but essential. As one of the IB Learner Profile traits, balance emphasizes the importance of maintaining mental, physical, and emotional health while managing multiple commitments.

Balance is about more than just managing time effectively; it’s about maintaining a healthy equilibrium between various aspects of life. Students who develop balance are better equipped to handle stress, make sound decisions, and remain focused on their goals. Finding this equilibrium is crucial to thriving rather than just surviving.

Some strategies for incorporating balance include teaching our students to use planners or digital calendars to keep track of assignments, tests, and extracurriculars while prioritizing what needs immediate attention to help reduce stress. Ensuring that our students are physically active on a daily basis helps reduce stress and boosts mental clarity. Setting boundaries by allocating specific times for schoolwork, relaxation, social interactions, and digital downtime is another way to support balance. Finally, practicing mindfulness techniques like meditation and deep breathing can help ground students amidst busy schedules.

In the classroom, practicing balance can significantly enhance students' ability to work effectively with others. Cooperation and collaboration are key components of balanced learning. When students work together on projects, share ideas, and respect different perspectives, all of which are hallmarks of our PYP program, they not only build stronger interpersonal skills but also foster a supportive and collaborative learning environment. This approach also promotes individual growth and academic skill building as students learn from one another and develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

As students move beyond WPS, the ability to maintain balance will remain a valuable asset in higher education, careers, and personal lives. By prioritizing balance, students can make the most of their educational experience while nurturing their well-being. It’s not just about achieving academically but thriving holistically, becoming well-rounded individuals who can face life’s challenges with poise and resilience.

Ms. Stephanie Jackson

Director of Lower School