Parent dropping his child off for school at the Ark at First United Methodist Church. Courtesy/FUMC
FUMC News:
When looking for quality childcare, parents often focus on finding a safe and welcoming learning environment for their children. After the horrendous mass shooting in Uvalde, Texas, parents of the Ark Childcare Development Center began asking what their security procedures were and if they could make the campus more secure.
The staff, Ark Board of Directors and Leadership Board of First United Methodist Church (FUMC) took this request into serious consideration and began investigating ways to make that a reality.
After looking through several different options and vendors, the Ark and FUMC contracted with Southwest Security to install a new security system in the building, which began in December and was completed recently. Now when coming to the Ark and church during regular business hours the doors will be locked. To gain access, ring the intercom for access. Also, parents and guardians are given a “key fob” which uses a simple RFID signal to unlock the door.
“One of the great things about this new system is not only does it give us a record of everyone who enters the building and when, but it is really easy to control,” new Ark Director Leigha Oliver said. “If someone loses their ‘key’ we can quickly deactivate it. The same if someone should no longer have permission to pick up a child. We don’t have to worry about having to change codes, or get keys back or anything else. It’s quick, easy and secure.”
In addition to the new door security, the Ark and church have also installed security cameras throughout the building, inside and out, adding one more layer of protection to the campus. The cameras are monitored from the office throughout the day ensuring children and staff safety. The staff have also received training in active shooter and lockdown procedures from the Los Alamos Police Department.
“I’m thrilled with the Ark’s recent improvements, including the new security measures,” Ark parent McKenzie Vaupel said.
“I really wish we didn’t live in a world where all this was necessary,” said Rev. John W. Nash, the senior pastor of First United Methodist Church. “But unfortunately we do, even here in Los Alamos. We want to provide the safety and security necessary to keep our families, our Ark families and church families safe, and this is definitely a move in the right direction.”
Oliver was hired as the new director of the Ark in December 2023, returning to the center where she had not only started her teaching career but where she even attended when she was a child growing up in Los Alamos.
“It has been such a pleasure being back at this wonderful center,” Oliver said. “I always knew I would one day return and I can’t thank the staff, families and church enough for welcoming me with open arms. I am so happy I can participate in all of these fantastic new changes. The Ark has always held, and will always hold, such a special place in my heart. Serving this community and providing quality care for families is something I want to continue doing many years from now.”
In the midst of these changes, the Ark has welcomed new staff as work is underway to create a new culture and place where all the Ark families and staff want to be. This has included articulating the Ark’s core values, which are respect, family, safety, teamwork, engagement, fun and play, and patience.
“We are also making changes to our hallways and classrooms to make them more fun and attractive,” Ark Assistant Director Jen Hopkins said. “Some have begun and others are on the way. We invite you to come see what’s going on.”
Parent Abbey Hayward addressed the changes.
“The changes at the Ark have been refreshing,” Hayward said. “I like the improvements in making the spaces more inviting for the kids with creatures hanging from the ceiling and new cubbies. And I’ve really enjoyed getting to know the teachers through the new information board. My kids have their primary teachers but it’s nice to know a bit about who also interacts with them. My daughter had the pleasure of having Ms. Leigha as a teacher before her move to director. The care and attention she doles out to each child can’t be surpassed.”
The Ark Child Development Center has been serving the community of Los Alamos for more than 40 years as a ministry of First United Methodist Church. Teachers are highly trained and compassionate in what they do and strive to provide the most loving childcare experience possible.
The Ark Child Development Center offers year-round, part-time or full-time, childcare and preschool services 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The Ark is open to all children regardless of race, religion, or nationality and is a non-profit organization. The Ark serves children six weeks through 12 years of age and accept state assistance.
To tour the campus, contact Leigha Oliver at arkdirector@lafumc.org or visit https:////www.firstinyourheart.org/ark.
