Quentin Thompson Riding High as a Culminating High Achiever from Wilder’s Preparatory Academy Charter School in Inglewood

By Gloria Zuurveen
Editor-in-Chief

INGLEWOOD — What a time? What a time!

It was a fabulous, sunny day at the Edward Vincent Park Amphitheater, located at 700 Warren Lane in the heart of Inglewood.

Time and time again, it gives me great joy to witness such splendor — the kind you see when children grow up and blossom into all they were meant to be — and none of it happens without Mama.

That’s exactly what unfolded on this unforgettable day in the park.

The event was hosted by Wilder’s Preparatory Academy Charter School — a proud   California Distinguished and National Blue Ribbon School.

I was there to witness the 2025 Fifth Grade Culmination and to celebrate an academic high achiever and standout athlete in the Snoop Dogg Little League: none other than Mr. Quentin Thompson.

It was Quentin’s time to shine, alongside his classmates, as they said farewell to the fifth grade.

But their departure wasn’t without deep gratitude for the dedicated teachers, staff, and loved ones who helped them reach this moment.

The festivities continued  and let me tell you — it was a real treat.

Quentin stole the spotlight as he climbed onto his very own horse — brought in just for this special occasion — waiting for him outside the theater.

He was quite literally riding high, culminating from Wilder’s Preparatory Academy in true champion style.

I was glad to be there, documenting every beautiful moment — including the joyful sight of his teacher, Mr. Stringer, mounting Quentin’s horse named Porsche, taking a ride on one of his student’s horse at the end of the Culmination in celebration.

That, my friends, is what community and legacy look like.

The ceremony began with a proud processional.

Milan Marshall led the Flag Salute.

Then, in powerful unity, the Class of 2025 recited the Black National Anthem, followed by the school’s Mission Statement and the Champion’s Creed — all reminders of the values that shape future leaders.

CHAMPION’S CREED
I am a Champion. I believe in myself. I have the will to win. I surround myself with winners. I am cool, positive, and confident. I have the courage and I never give up. I am willing to pay the price for success. I love the struggle and the competition. I stay relaxed and in control at all times. I focus all my energy on the job at hand. I vividly imagine what victory will feel like.

I AM A CHAMPION
AND I WILL WIN!

The program continued with Ashton Augustine delivering the welcome address, as proud families lifted their phones skyward, ready to capture the milestone moment for the Class of 2025. This was a day to remember — especially for Quentin — who had so much to be thankful for, beginning with his loving mother, Aisha L. Thompson.

As the City Clerk of Inglewood, she is a shining example of leadership and grace. She should be lifted up and celebrated as a Mother of the Year — raising a fine young man who is destined to lead, with the support of committed educators like Mr. Stringer.

Never to forget about Quentin’s dad, Mr. Robert Thompson, his uncle Lorenzo Phillips and his wife Paulette Mitchell were also in attendance. Quentin is passionate about sports, but his academics have never taken a back seat. In the end, he was rightfully crowned one of Wilder’s High Achiever Scholars — an honor worth celebrating. As I walked into a ceremony themed: “Going From Good to Great: Elevating from Excellent to Exceptional,” I couldn’t help but feel inspired. Now that’s powerful thinking. And the students? They delivered. Each one arrived dressed for success. The young men, sharp in black suits with personal flair. The young ladies, graceful in white and off-white tones. They were outstanding — and they knew it. They made it. They overcame every obstacle to stand tall at Edward Vincent Park Amphitheater, and their presence was a testament to perseverance.

All of it made possible because of visionaries like the late Mr. Raymond D. Wilder and Mrs. Ramona Wilder. Mr. Wilder was deeply committed to nurturing lifelong learners through educational excellence for every student. On this radiant day, his legacy lived on — shining brightly in the faces of every child on that stage.

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