By Victoria Colangelo, Winter Springs City Commissioner District 2, Mother, Entrepreneur, and Proud Supporter of WSHS
Nestled in the heart of Winter Springs, the Winter Springs High School (WSHS) stands as a beacon of learning, community, and pride. With its official colors of purple, black, and gold, and the mighty Bear as its mascot, WSHS has been serving over 2,000 Seminole County students since it opened its doors in 1997. From its humble beginnings with 9th and 10th graders, to celebrating its first graduating senior class in 2000, this institution has witnessed two decades of excellence in academics, arts, and athletics.
One of the school’s most cherished traditions is the senior-painted parking spaces. This annual event sees seniors transform the school’s parking lot into a colorful canvas, allowing them to weave a piece of their journey into the very fabric of the school. Beyond its visual appeal and the fundraiser aspect, this tradition embodies the school’s mission, ensuring students graduate with the values, skills, knowledge, and attitudes to be active contributors to society.
As seasons change and the year concludes, another beautiful ritual takes shape: painting over the artwork in anticipation of the next batch of stories to be told. A fresh start for the next generation.
Having been an active member of the Winter Springs community, I’ve seen firsthand the power of such traditions in shaping our students. As a mother, an entrepreneur with a deep-rooted love for the environment, and a City Commissioner, I’ve always believed in creating and supporting initiatives that blend economic growth with cultural and environmental conservation.
The painting tradition at WSHS does just that. It’s an initiative that raises funds, fosters creativity, and instills a sense of belonging. It reminds us of the importance of cherishing memories while also looking forward to what the future holds.
As we celebrate the past and anticipate the future, I am reminded of the values that Winter Springs High School has always stood for. It’s more than just a school; it’s a community that binds us, an institution that reminds us of where we come from, and a beacon that lights up the path to where we’re headed.
To the young artists of WSHS, thank you for sharing your stories, dreams, and creativity with us. Here’s to many more years of painted memories!
Thank you for being a part of the “I Love Oviedo Winter Springs” journey. Let’s continue to grow, cherish our traditions, and work towards an even brighter future.
