Open Arms Preschool Christian Child Development Center

Now enrolling for 2026–2027

Where children learn, grow, and thrive.

At Open Arms Preschool, we partner with families to provide a Christ-centered foundation where children thrive — academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. Ages 2–5, half-day classes in Hagerstown.

Schedule a Tour

  • ✓ Caring teachers & small class sizes
  • ✓ Play-based, hands-on curriculum
  • ✓ Safe & nurturing environment
Three smiling Open Arms friends arm in arm on the lawn at the school picnic

Why families choose Open Arms

Faith. Learning. Love.

  • Christ-centered learning — daily prayer, Bible stories & character building.
  • Hands-on, play-based curriculum that makes learning fun.
  • Caring teachers & small class sizes — every child is known and loved.
  • A safe & nurturing environment that feels like family.
  • Brightwheel communication app — classroom updates straight to your phone.
Children playing together at the water table on a sunny day at Open Arms
A parent and child laughing together over a foam science experiment at a family event

The Creative Curriculum

Learning through the senses

Open Arms uses The Creative Curriculum, approved by the Maryland State Department of Education. Children learn through play and sensory experiences — feeling, listening, tasting, smelling, and observing — growing at their own pace in a Christian community.

A girl scooping rainbow sensory rice in the classroom
A girl building a bridge for counting bears at the classroom table

Programs offered

Classes & tuition

Half-day classes, monthly tuition.

Ages 2/3

3-Day Classes

  • 3 days / week — Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday $353/mo

Potty training not required

Ages 3/4

3-Day Classes

  • 3 days / week — Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday $353/mo

Ages 4/5

4-Day Class

  • 4 days / week — Tuesday through Friday $435/mo

Kindergarten Readiness Class

Sibling discount: $50 off your second child's monthly tuition. A $100 non-refundable registration fee ($30 for returning students) holds your child's space for 45 days. May's tuition (non-refundable) is due by August 1.

An honest comparison

Why choose Open Arms over public preschool?

  • Faith-based learning that builds a strong foundation in character and values.
  • Smaller class sizes = more individual attention and stronger relationships.
  • Flexible part-time options that fit your family's needs.
  • Loving teachers who truly know and care for your child.
  • A safe, nurturing, family-like environment.

Meet our teachers

Loving teachers who know your child

Natalie Evans

Director / Teacher

Reach Natalie at 301-797-5955 to ask questions or schedule a visit.

Tamsen Tso

Teacher

Ashlie Swann

Teacher

Mindy Schenk

Teacher

Denise Howell

Teacher

Ashley Tanner

Aide

Lesley Evans

Aide

Nicole Cook

Aide

Renee Gladhill

Aide

Amanda Brooks

Aide

What parents are saying

100% of parents recommend Open Arms — 25 reviews

“We have been very impressed with Open Arms Preschool over the past two years. The teachers and staff are very welcoming and caring and truly make learning fun for the children. It is a safe and nurturing learning environment. Our child is entering kindergarten with the skills needed to be successful along with a love and enthusiasm for learning. As a parent and elementary school teacher, I highly recommend Open Arms Preschool.”

— Lori Dodson, parent and elementary school teacher

“Open Arms has been such a blessing to our family. Our two youngest boys attended a total of four years and loved every minute. They were more than prepared academically to start kindergarten after finishing the program. We are thankful for the love and care from each teacher as well as the biblically based curriculum. We could not have found a better preschool.”

— Erin McClure, parent

“We have absolutely loved our experience at Open Arms Preschool. The teachers genuinely care about each child and go above and beyond to make every student feel loved, supported, and encouraged. My children come home excited every day about all the fun activities they did at school and are always eager to share what they are learning. I also love that they incorporate lessons about Jesus and kindness into everything they do. Communication with families is excellent, and the entire school community truly feels like family. We are so thankful for the positive impact Open Arms Preschool has had on our children and family.”

— Kristin Ecton, parent

“From the very beginning, the teachers created an environment that felt safe, welcoming, nurturing, and full of joy. … They go above and beyond to make every child feel seen, valued, and loved. Their patience, kindness, creativity, and encouragement have helped our daughter grow not only academically, but emotionally and socially as well. We have watched her confidence blossom in ways we never imagined. … As parents, there is no greater comfort than knowing your child is in the hands of people who truly care.”

— Nadine Thompson, parent of two Open Arms kids

See daily life at Open Arms — photos, celebrations, and updates from our teachers — on our Facebook page and Instagram.

Before you ask

Quick answers

What ages and schedules do you offer?

Three half-day programs: 3-day classes for ages 2/3 (potty training not required), 3-day classes for ages 3/4, and a 4-day kindergarten-readiness class for ages 4/5.

How big are the classes?

Classes have a maximum of 14 students, each with one teacher and one aide. Background checks are required for all staff.

What curriculum do you use?

The Creative Curriculum, approved by the Maryland State Department of Education. Children learn through sensory experiences of feeling, listening, tasting, smelling, and observing.

How do I enroll?

Call (301) 797-5955 or email Openarms.hagerstown1@gmail.com to schedule a tour. A $100 non-refundable registration fee ($30 for returning students) holds your child's space for 45 days. Enroll by August 1 for 50% off one month's tuition.

Is there a sibling discount?

Yes — $50 off your second child's monthly tuition.

How will I know how my child's day went?

Open Arms uses the Brightwheel communication app, so updates from the classroom come straight to your phone.

Schedule a tour today!

We would love to welcome your family. Call or email Director Natalie Evans with any questions.

Openarms.hagerstown1@gmail.com

Email Us Call