Katie Jackson

“Walking back through the Ocean Park gates of my old preschool, now with my daughter in hand, I was hit with a wave of nostalgia and the sudden realization that what once felt like a huge space was actually adorably small and cozy. The same magical red train still stands proudly at the Ocean Park campus, bikes and strollers still surround the tree, the giggles and laughter sound almost identical and Charlie, the famous tortoise, still trails behind excited toddlers.

“Although many years have passed since I attended Ocean Park, it is just as bright and full of promise as it was when I attended. Back then, I was one of three Katies racing around the yard. "Katie J." became part of my identity. Now, my daughter--one of two Ellas in the Blue group--proudly announces she's "Ella B." when announcing her name.

“What makes it all even sweeter is that my daughter has teacher Cindy, just like me. While some things did change with time, the warmth, care and joy this preschool continues to give generation after generation has undoubtedly remained the same. We have truly come full circle, and I could not be more grateful for The First School.”