First Lutheran Children's Center Hosts Annual Hoe Down

Students and families of First Lutheran Children's Center in Redlands danced the night away over the weekend during the annual Hoe Down event. Serving the community for 20 years, the school has gained a reputation as the "Best Preschool in the Inland Empire," and it's events such as these, that bring students and their families together, that contribute to its reputation, explained director Lu Cook, who has given 18 years to the preschool. Cook feels the preschool's success is due to its faith-based environment, the staff, and parental support it receives. Cook added the school program is high energy, set within four-hour segments; its half-day schedule has proven popular, according to Cook. "We have three major tools of success here: fundraisers, good fellowship and community outreach." The hoe down event is the school's lone fundraiser, and included silent auctions, a petting zoo, a bakery, a 'tattoo' parlor, a fish pond, a face painting station, a dinosaur hunt and blow up slides to provide additional entertainment for the evening. A chicken dinner featuring a cheese potato casserole was served that night as well, with parents and students encouraged to attend in full hoe down garb - paisley tops, straw hats, boots and jeans. The Adams family came to support their daughter, Brooklyn, who is in her second year at the preschool. Mother Rebecca stated, “I love how family-oriented the school is, and I am more than happy to be here to support today.” The Westwick family agreed; all three of their boys attended the school and were present to support the fundraiser. Mother and father Laurel and Nathan come to the annual event every year because, they shared, they too are grateful for the school and how well-received the program was with each of their three boys. Nathan Westwick said, "This is a good school and we are proud to be a part of such a great place.” Lisa Schulz, a teacher and office assistant, was busy selling tickets. Schulz has been with the school for over 14 years and said she loved her job, and felt the kids and the program are wonderful. “No one is overwhelmed or overworked at the end of the day and the environment is positive and happy," she said. As the parents, children, and supporters poured in, the silent auction and other entertaining activities began. Children took parents on tours of their classrooms in between participation in events and enjoying food and entertainment.