“Summer should be a time when children continue to discover, ask questions, and grow,”
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ALEXANDRIA, VA — Young Scholars at the Hopkins House Preschool Academy spent their summer exploring science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and the natural world through an engaging six-week Summer STEM Camp designed to spark curiosity, inspire creativity, and strengthen the foundation for lifelong learning.
Held at both the Helen Day Preschool Academy in Alexandria and the James L. & Juliette McNeil Preschool Academy in Fairfax County, this annual summer program welcomed recent Hopkins House Preschool Academy graduates preparing to enter kindergarten this fall, along with current elementary school students.
This year’s Summer STEM Camp was led by Alexis Montgomery at the Helen Day Preschool Academy and Tayana Newkirk at the James L. & Juliette McNeil Preschool Academy. Montgomery is herself a proud Hopkins House Preschool Academy alumna and the recipient of the organization’s prestigious 2025 Johnson+Jasper College Scholarship, making her leadership of this year’s program especially meaningful.
Throughout the six-week experience, Young Scholars participated in a variety of hands-on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) activities designed to encourage critical thinking, experimentation, and teamwork. Classroom projects included colorful Sand Art Jars, exciting Baking Soda Volcano experiments, engineering challenges, and other interactive activities that transformed scientific concepts into memorable learning experiences.
The learning extended well beyond the classroom. Campers also visited the National Air & Space Museum, LEGO Land, Children’s Museum and environmental education centers, where they explored history, science, wildlife, and the natural environment through age-appropriate, experiential learning opportunities.
“Summer should be a time when children continue to discover, ask questions, and grow,” said Dr. Justin Thomas, Principal of the Helen Day Preschool Academy. “Drawing on my experience in public education, we’ve intentionally designed a program that keeps our Preschool Academy Young Scholars academically engaged while making learning exciting, hands-on, and meaningful. Every activity is an opportunity to build confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning that will benefit them long after summer ends.”
At the James L. & Juliette McNeil Preschool Academy, students developed a greater appreciation for nature through outdoor exploration and environmental learning.
“Helping children understand the world around them begins with encouraging them to observe, explore, and appreciate nature,” said Mr. Brandon Peel, Principal of the James L. & Juliette McNeil Preschool Academy. “Whether visiting environmental centers, learning about local ecosystems, or simply asking questions about the natural world, our Young Scholars gained experiences that help them become thoughtful learners and responsible stewards of their environment.”
For Hopkins House, the Summer STEM Camp represents far more than seasonal childcare. It reflects the organization’s longstanding commitment to ensuring that children continue learning year-round through enriching experiences that broaden their horizons and prepare them for future academic success.
“At Hopkins House, we believe that exposing our Preschool Academy Young Scholars to meaningful life experiences helps build the strong foundation of knowledge, confidence, and curiosity that will guide them throughout their lives,” said J. Glenn Hopkins, President & CEO of Hopkins House. “Whether conducting a science experiment, exploring a museum, or discovering the wonders of nature, each experience helps our Young Scholars develop the critical thinking, creativity, and enthusiasm for learning that are essential for success in school and beyond.”
Founded in 1939, Hopkins House is one of Northern Virginia’s oldest nonprofit organizations dedicated to empowering children and families through high-quality early childhood education, workforce development, and community services. Its nationally accredited Preschool Academies provide children with exceptional educational experiences while preparing them for lifelong success through innovative programming, caring educators, and meaningful family partnerships.
