Windward School’s mission statement explains that “community and collaboration are at the core of the School’s philosophy and reflected every day in the warm, welcoming atmosphere on campus.”

Included in that message are the grandparents who have been long standing pillars of the growth and support of students.

‘To say ‘thank you,’ for their continued support and guidance of future generations, Windward hosted its Grandparents’ Brunch on November 4th, 2023, a tradition that gives them a way to further connect with the school and show them the progress that it has made.

The space that was decorated in balloons, and a carpeted gym included presentations, live performances, activities, a delectable buffet, whilst students first enjoy quality time spent with their grandparents, before taking them on guided tours of the school. It is a wonderful opportunity to link grandparents to the Windward community.

This year, live displays of the arts consisted of performances by the Windward Honors Advanced Vocal Ensemble (also known as The Windward Chromatics), the Windward Honors Advanced Jazz Ensemble, as well as a student video created and presented by the Windward Dance Company.

“We want to share some of Windward’s artistic talents and gifts with the grandparents who come to campus that day, so they can get a little glimpse into what Windward students do, and what they’re passionate about!” said Daniel Koh, director of the Chromatics, who performed three pieces of different genres each. The Jazz ensemble performed two pieces as a quartet.

Jace K. noted, “My grandparents and I both really enjoyed listening to the jazz.”

Other presentations included a speech given by head of school Tom Gilder detailing progress towards the expansion of the Arts building, which will include an art gallery and theater as just two featured spaces, as well as an expression of gratitude toward the grandparents of the community.

Sophia S., who sang with the Chromatics, attended with her grandpa, and said, “It gave my grandparents a chance to see what the Windward community is like.”

Other students gave speeches detailing their experiences at Windward thus far. As for the festivities, students and their grandparents enjoyed a variety of activities such as a photo booth, food, and quality time spent with one another, as they created memories for years to come.