First United Methodist Church Preschool marks 50th anniversary

The First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights Preschool celebrated its 50th anniversary Sunday, May 7.

The preschool was formed in the spring of 1973 as a ministry to the community by the board of Children's Ministry of the First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights. The We-e Care Program was formed a year later in 1974.

The school's mission and ministry is to provide a nurturing, safe and trustworthy environment in which each child can grow and develop to his or her potential. Classes are offered five days a week, September through May.

The celebration began with a worship service that included a children's choir made up of current preschoolers and alums of the preschool. The current director, Sarah Ridyard, led a special storytime for young children. Two church members from the forming committee, Mary Stitt and Geralyn May, were introduced and celebrated.

Former and current directors, including the preschool's first director from 1973, Carol Brakeen, were introduced with a brief history of what occurred in the preschool under their direction. Many former teachers attended and they, along with the current staff, were also introduced.

Preschool children's artwork decorated the church's gathering space and a slideshow with photos from the past 30 years was shown during the coffee hour that followed the service. Outside, families enjoyed cotton candy from Ma and Pa's Candy in Long Grove, an inflatable obstacle course and slide from Bella's Bouncies, and live, interactive music with Jim from ScribbleMonster.

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