WPMS honors beloved teacher with annual Fred Gressler Memorial Walk

The spirit of Fred Gressler, a beloved middle school physical-education teacher, coach and avid runner who passed away 30 years ago, continues to inspire students, staff and families.

On Halloween, the WPMS PTA once again held the Fred Gressler Walkathon, which celebrates the enduring legacy of a city resident who dedicated 27 years to teaching, coaching and motivating students to live active, healthy lives.

Mr. Gressler, who succumbed to an illness at age 48, is fondly remembered as a dedicated educator, athlete and mentor who believed that “winning is good, but the most important thing is to do your best.” 

The PTA organizes the yearly walks in his honor, raising funds to support student programs. 

“Each Halloween, we walk to honor Coach Gressler. He loved this community and all of the students,” the PTA has said in a Facebook post where it shared poignant images of the educator.

A lifelong athlete and competitor, Mr. Gressler was known as an accomplished triathlete and skier whose enthusiasm for fitness and teamwork continues to shape the culture at White Plains schools. 

His legacy also lives on in other traditions, including the Fred Gressler Memorial Cross Country Invitational at White Plains High School (he also was a girls cross country coach) and the Fred Gressler Volleyball Tournament, which benefits the Sue Adams Foundation. It is named after another cherished Highlands teacher, who died in 2023, and provides local scholarships.

Eastview Middle School Principal Leroy Dixon called the Halloween walk “yet another unique way to spend time outside the classroom for a good cause.”

Highlands Middle School Principal Michael Eaton added that Mr. Gressler “made an impact on his students through his kindness, dedication and passion for teaching and athletics, which the school continues to honor through annual events held in his name.”

Through these celebrations of fitness and generosity, the White Plains City School District continues to ensure that Mr. Gressler’s inspiring lessons — and his legacy — live on.