Dear Laker Community,

At Windermere Prep, our IB MYP journey continues to grow in dynamic and purposeful ways. As we focus on February’s IB Learner Profile attribute Risk-Taker, we are reminded that taking risks means stepping into new experiences with courage, embracing challenges, and remaining open to growth. This month, that spirit has been evident across our entire community. From Tanzania to Washington, D.C. and Spain, many of our high school students and faculty are engaged in experiential learning that stretches perspectives and deepens understanding. These global experiences encourage students to engage thoughtfully with culture, service, and leadership while developing the confidence to navigate unfamiliar environments.

Earlier this month, our Model United Nations team demonstrated poise and diplomacy at the University of Chicago, earning multiple awards while representing Windermere Prep with distinction. Researching complex global issues, speaking publicly, and defending ideas with confidence requires intellectual courage. Risk-taking is also unfolding within our classrooms. Several of our Middle and High School teachers are designing and implementing interdisciplinary units, bringing subject areas together in meaningful ways. By collaborating across disciplines, teachers are helping students make authentic connections, transfer knowledge and skills between contexts, and see learning as interconnected rather than isolated.

Our Middle School Aspire students partnered with 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade students through our LS/MS Buddy Program to explore how trying something new builds confidence. Through mentorship and shared activities, our older students modeled empathy and encouragement, strengthening the bonds within our IB continuum.

In athletics, both our boys' and girls' basketball teams have advanced to the semifinals, an exciting accomplishment that reflects resilience, teamwork, and the willingness to rise to high-pressure moments. Their commitment and perseverance exemplify what it means to take risks with confidence and trust in one another.

We also proudly hosted the Nord Anglia Performing Arts Festival and STEAM Festival for the first time, highlighting creativity and innovation across our campus. In the Arts, we are preparing for our upcoming Middle School production of Beetlejuice JR., welcomed our Juilliard Music Curriculum Specialist to work with our faculty and students, and celebrated outstanding achievements across our programs. Our Laker Jazz Band earned three straight Superior ratings at their Music Performance Assessment, our Junior and Senior Dance Repertoire Company performed at the FDPA State Assessment, our Middle School Thespian Troupe 88713 earned Superior ratings at the state level, and all 22 High School music solos received Superior ratings at the District Music Assessment.

Across academics, athletics, the arts, and service, our community continues to embrace challenges. The IB journey at Windermere Prep is not about perfection; it is about growth, reflection, and the courage to try something new.

Mariko Bliss

IB Middle Years Programme Coordinator