For 150 years, students have walked all throughout the halls of Stillwater Area High School, building traditions that connect the generations of graduates and generations to come. While classrooms, schedules and opportunities have changed over time, one thing has remained constant: the pride that students and staff feel in being part of the Pony community.

One of the most recognizable symbols of the school is the mascot of the Stillwater Ponies. The red and black colors and the Pony head logo have represented the school for decades. For longtime staff members, the mascot is more than just a symbol and logo; it reflects a deep sense of belonging.

After more than 5 decades working in the district, business teacher Deborah Drommerhausen said the identity of the school has remained surprisingly consistent. “The ponies have always been the ponies,” she explained. “We’ve been red and black for years.”

Even as the school has expanded and evolved, those symbols still represent and unite the community, serving as a lasting reminder of its history and shared values while continuing to inspire pride and connection among students, staff, and alumni.

Drommerhausen said the connection goes beyond athletics or logos. “I’m proud to watch Stillwater High School. I mean, the Stillwater bus goes by… people are proud of where they work. My kids went here, I’m proud of all of them.”

Throughout the years, the culture of the school has remained centered on student successes and accomplishments. While schedules and academic offerings have expanded, the motivation of students has stayed the same. For example, at SAHS, students continue to demonstrate this motivation through achievements in academics, athletics and extracurricular activities, through college commitments, and the pathways program that is able to help students figure out their future.

That motivation is something current students continue to feel. Senior Bennet Lacska said being part of the school during this historic milestone has given him deeper thought and appreciation for the community around him.

“When you think about how many students have walked these halls before you, it kind of puts things into perspective,” Lacska said. “You feel like you’re a part of something larger than just your own high school experience.”

As a senior, Lacska reflected on how the school has shaped him and his classmates over the years. When asked what has stood out most during his time at Stillwater, he pointed to both the opportunities available and the support from teachers and peers.

“There’s always something to be included and involved in, he said. “Whether it’s sports, clubs or classes, you can find your place pretty easily.”

When asked what advice he would give to younger students just beginning their high school journey, Lacska emphasized the importance of getting involved early. “Don’t be afraid to try new things,” he said. “High school goes by fast, so take advantage of what is here.”

Looking ahead, Lacska said he feels prepared for what’s to come next, “Stillwater does a good job of getting you ready,” he said. “You learn how to manage your time, work with others, and figure out what you want to do.”

The opportunities available to students today are far broader and more accessible than they were in the past. According to Activities Director Nate Cox, the school now offers a huge range of activities that allow students to find their interests.

“We offer pretty much every sport that the MSHSL allows us to offer,” Cox said. “With all of our fine arts, music, band, orchestra, choir, theater, and then all of the clubs… there’s just something for everyone.”

The activities program has also grown as students themselves bring new ideas to the school. Cox said new clubs appear every year when students come forward with passions that they want to share with all who are interested. “Throughout the course of a year, we probably get about eight or so students that come down here and want to start a new club,” he said. “They want to share that passion and get other kids together.”

Some activities even grow into official sports. Cox pointed to the boys’ volleyball team as an example. “For a little bit, boys volleyball was considered a club,” he said. “And now it’s transitioned to be a full-on sport.”

New opportunities continue to appear as well. This year, the school is launching a girls flag football club, with hopes that it could someday become a full sport in the Minnesota High School League.

Beyond activities and academics, the school’s relationship with the community has been key to its success. Cox said local businesses and residents regularly reach out to support programs.

“We’re very embedded in the community,” he said, “People want to know how they can help and how they can support the kids and overall community.”

After 150 years, the traditions of Stillwater continue to grow with each new generation of students. From the Pony mascot to the ever-expanding list of clubs and sports, the school’s story is still being written one class at a time.