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.

First United Methodist Church Preschool, Arlington Heights, celebrated its 50th anniversary on Sunday, May 7. The celebration began with a worship service including a children's choir, made up of current and past students of the preschool. - Courtesy of Judy Standefer

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.

Pictured are Cindy Goldsberry, Maureen Edmondson, Sarah Ridyard, Mary Stitt, Carol Brakeen and Geralyn May at the 50th anniversary celebration of the First United Methodist Church Preschool in Arlington Heights. - Courtesy of Judy Standefer

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.

Families enjoyed cotton candy from Ma and Pa's Candy in Long Grove at the 50th anniversary celebration of the First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights Preschool. - Courtesy of Judy Standefer

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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