HOLLYWOOD, Md. — A legacy of learning, faith and community will take center stage this summer as Hollywood United Methodist Preschool & Kindergarten prepares to celebrate 50 years of service to families across St. Mary’s County.
The milestone anniversary celebration is set for Sunday, June 7, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the school, located at 24422 Mervell Dean Road in Hollywood. Organizers say the event will bring together past and present students, staff and supporters to reflect on five decades of early childhood education and community impact.
Tami Joy, director of the preschool and kindergarten, described the anniversary as both humbling and inspiring.
“We are excited about this milestone,” Joy said. “It is humbling to know that even at 50 years old we have grown and have waiting lists each year. It is a place where former students and their family return. They stop by just to say, ‘Hi!’”
Founded in the fall of 1975, with its first school year completed in spring 1976, the program began as a response to a growing need for early childhood education before the implementation of public pre-K programs. Over the years, it has expanded to include classes for 2-, 3- and 4-year-olds, as well as transitional kindergarten, a full kindergarten program and a summer camp.
The school also adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic, reopening quickly after a brief closure and offering extended hours to support working families. An outdoor classroom introduced during that time remains in use today.
As an outreach ministry of Hollywood United Methodist Church, the program is rooted in faith-based values and community connection.
“Our philosophy comes from the Bible verse: ‘Children are a gift from the Lord,’” Joy said. “Our school means family.”
That sense of family is evident in the generations of students who have passed through its doors. Joy noted that second-generation students are now common, with some families returning decades later to enroll their own children.
“One of our current teachers graduated from our very first kindergarten class,” she said. “Her two girls now attend as well.”
The school has also built a diverse community, influenced in part by the region’s connection to the nearby naval base, welcoming families from around the world and introducing students to different cultures.
Beyond the classroom, the preschool has long emphasized service and outreach. Students and families participate in initiatives such as Operation Christmas Child, the Pajama Connection and the church’s HeartFELT program, which provides food to local students in need. Past efforts have also included visits and performances for nursing homes and senior communities.
“In some small way, we are working on teaching the children that no matter what their age and size, they can help and make a difference,” Joy said.
The June 7 celebration will feature a short program, including a welcome, reflections on the school’s history, remarks from the church’s pastor and performances by current students. Attendees will also have the opportunity to tour classrooms and view historical memorabilia and photos displayed in Galilee Hall. Cake, cookies and punch will be served.
Organizers are encouraging former students, staff and supporters to attend and reconnect. The event is open to the public, and a freewill donation will be accepted to support a new playground fund.
Joy said the anniversary is not just about looking back, but also looking ahead.
“Fifty is not a stopping place, it is a great new place to start,” she said. “We look forward to 50-plus years more.”
About Hollywood United Methodist Preschool & Kindergarten
Hollywood United Methodist Preschool & Kindergarten is a faith-based early childhood education program serving families in St. Mary’s County since 1975. As a ministry of Hollywood United Methodist Church, the school offers programs for young children focused on education, community and service.
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Our 2 1/2 year old grandson attending United Methodist Pre-school this year. When he was enrolled, we were thrilled to learn that Ms. Candy is one of the teachers. In the mid to late 80’s, our son was attending Hollywood Elementary School and Ms. Candy was running the After School program. My so was thrilled that his son would get the benefit of being mentored by such a caring young lady. We have noticed that our Grandson is make very good progress and enjoys his “going to school” days.