ALXnow Readers’ Choice recognition reflects community confidence in the historic preschool serving Alexandria families since 1939
ALEXANDRIA, VA — Hopkins House’s Helen Day Preschool Academy was voted one of the top three preschools in the City of Alexandria in the 2026 ALXnow Readers’ Choice Awards.
Nearly 500 individual votes were cast during the two-week ALXnow Readers’ Choice poll, conducted September 11–25. When the results were announced, the Helen Day Preschool Academy ranked third among Alexandria preschool and daycare providers.
“This recognition is particularly meaningful because it comes directly from the community,” said J. Glenn Hopkins, President and CEO of Hopkins House. “For 87 years, families have entrusted Hopkins House with the education, care, and development of their young children. To know that Alexandria residents continue to recognize the Helen Day Preschool Academy among the city’s best is both humbling and affirming.”
Located at 1224 Princess Street in Alexandria, the Helen Day Preschool Academy traces its history to the founding of Hopkins House in 1939 and today serves children from infancy through age five. ALXnow specifically noted the Academy’s long history, service to children from diverse backgrounds, and previous recognition as a leading preschool in the region.
“This honor belongs to our educators, staff, families, and supporters,” said Dr. Justin Thomas, Principal of the Helen Day Preschool Academy. “Our educators come to work every day committed to creating an environment where children are safe, valued, challenged, and excited to learn. We are grateful to every person who took the time to vote for the Helen Day Preschool Academy and demonstrate their confidence in the work we do.”
The Readers’ Choice recognition adds to the Helen Day Preschool Academy’s record of external distinction. The Academy is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) — a distinction achieved by fewer than 10% of U.S. childcare centers, preschools, and kindergartens — signifying that it has met rigorous, research-based national standards for high-quality learning and teaching, health and safety, family engagement, and continuous improvement. Hopkins House Preschool Academies have also been recognized among the region’s top preschools by Northern Virginia Magazine.
Hopkins said this latest recognition is especially meaningful as the organization continues its longstanding commitment to making high-quality early childhood education accessible to children and families across Northern Virginia.
“Being among Alexandria’s top three is something we celebrate, but it also challenges us to keep earning the confidence families place in us,” Hopkins said. “Our commitment remains what it has been since 1939: to provide children with an exceptional start in life while helping families build stronger futures.”
Founded in 1939, Hopkins House is a nonprofit organization serving children, families, and early childhood educators in Northern Virginia through its Preschool Academies, Early Childhood Learning Institute, and family support programs.
