A Discussion with Windermere Prep Valedictorian, John Geller

Windermere Prep is proud to announce that John Geller, Class of 2021, is this year’s Valedictorian. I sat down with John to hear about his Windermere Prep journey and his next chapter.

As a full International Baccalaureate Diploma student, John has excelled at Windermere Prep through academics, athletics, and his relationships with teachers and peers. John matriculated at Windermere Prep in Kindergarten, “Crossed the Bridge” to Middle School, and “Turned the Page” to High School. Johnny, as he is known to friends and family,  has seen Windermere Prep grow and become what it is today. One of the many elements that he loves about Windermere Prep is the community and family feeling that is felt daily, and that he was part of the foundation of Windermere Prep. 

John has created life-long bonds with friends and teachers. As a captain of the football team,  IBD student, and a member of SGA with a very busy schedule, he has mastered time management skills, which will help him in the future. John admits, at times,  it has been challenging to balance all of his activities. The most positive influences in his life are his parents.  They did not pressure him, but rather let him make his own choices and are always supportive.  Even though this year has been very different due to the Pandemic, he feels that Windermere Prep has excelled at keeping traditions alive and allowing students to play athletics this year. John felt supported and mentored in his role as a captain of the football team, by Coach Jacob Doss,  and continues to stay in touch with him. 

Next for John is to enjoy the summer with family and friends.  He may also take a few online MIT classes in computer science to prepare him for his major. His planned major is engineering or computer science and one day hopes to own a tech startup company. He has been accepted to UF, Georgia Tech, and Notre Dame and is awaiting notification from Michigan and Northwestern before making his final decision. 

“John is extraordinary and will do extraordinary things in this world. His thirst for knowledge drives him in the classroom as well as on the field.  What is most admirable about Johnny is that he has found a way to balance his life between academics, sports, family and friends with grace and ease.” Nancy Gerena, High School College Counselor

“Laker for Life” advice to our current Windermere Prep students:

 “Focus on developing good study habits early on, create personal relationships, and invest time in activities outside of studying to give your mind a break.”  

John is an exceptional example of a true Laker and Windermere Prep is proud of him and excited to see all he achieves in the coming years. 

~ Summer Simmons, Marketing Manager