INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK: Wendy Cooper, Windermere High School

Wendy Cooper is the front desk clerk at Windermere High School. This is her second year with the school and Orange County Public Schools. When you visit the school’s campus, Cooper is one of the first people you will meet. Her job has many duties, which one might expect working at a high school with almost 3,300 students. She said one of the most important things she does is to make sure every person who walks through the school’s front doors feels welcomed and appreciated. 

What brought you to your school?

Prior to working at Windermere High School, I was a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway in Windermere for 12 years. I chose to step away from real estate in 2021, but I still craved that connection with the community. When the position became available at Windermere High, I jumped at the chance.

What do you love most about your school?

Windermere High is amazing! The administrators, teachers, students and their families are an absolute delight to work with. The support we receive from Principal (Andrew) Leftakis, assistant principals and the deans on a daily basis makes it a pleasure to come to work every day.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The students! Every morning when the students arrive at school, it is my personal mission to make sure they are laughing or smiling when they leave my desk. A positive word and a smile can change their outlook on the whole day.

Who influences you?

It isn’t a who but a what. Seeing kindness in others is so inspiring.

What would you be if you weren’t in this profession?  

It would have to be something where I interact with others. I am such a people person. It fills my cup to be a positive force for good in the world.

 Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why?

The teacher who impacted my life the most was Ms. Libba Gray. She taught English and theater at Heritage High School in Maryville, Tennessee. She was incredible and showed me just how far I could soar if I applied myself.

What is your favorite children’s book and why?

“I Love You Forever” by Robert Munsch. We read this book over and over to our son when he was small, and it holds a very special place in my heart. I also love “Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel” by Virginia Lee Burton. One of my earliest memories is sitting on my mother’s lap and listening to her read to my brother and me.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Reading; I am a voracious reader and truly enjoy it. I also love playing with my dog, Biscuit. 

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

I would choose time travel. The ability to go back in time and visit relatives and loved ones who have passed away would be an enormous gift. My mom passed in 2000, and not a day goes by that I don’t think of her and wish we could visit.

If you could dine with any famous person, past or present, who would it be and why?

Elizabeth Cady Stanton. She was one of the leaders in the women’s rights movement. Because of Mrs. Stanton’s determination and women like her, I have the right to vote. As a woman, I have a voice in our country’s elections. Can you imagine how delighted she would be to see how her hard work paid off? 

If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why?

Pearl Jam, Foo Fighters and Stevie Nicks. This music created by these artists speaks to me.

What was your go-to lunch and favorite snack as an elementary student?

A PB&J sandwich and chocolate pudding were my favorite lunch and snack.  

What is your favorite holiday and why?

Everyone loves Christmas, but my favorite holiday is Halloween. Dressing up, carving pumpkins and all the kids who come to trick-or-treat is the best! 

Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch?

My best friend growing up was Beth Prichard, and we are still friends to this day. When I think of Beth, I smile and, sometimes, laugh when I remember all the shenanigans we got into. A good friend is hard to find; I am fortunate to have a friend as good as (her).

What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors?

I was a theater kid. I participated in theatrical productions and concert choir. I attended Girls State and was chosen to attend the Tennessee Governor’s School for the Arts for theater during the summer between my junior and senior year. I was president of my senior class and also president of the International Thespian Society at my high school.