Peace, Love, and Lollipops

The Story of the Lollipop Tradition
As the shine shown bright on a pleasant afternoon at WPC preschool, about 16 years ago, a little boy named David took a tumble on the play yard and hurt himself. It seemed that band aids would not remedy this situation but luckily, at that time, Westlake Hospital was right next door. Judy, the bubbly cheerful director, held David’s hand, accompanied him to the hospital, and comforted him as stitches were being put in place. When all was said and done, Judy asked the nurse, “Do you have a lollipop for my friend, David?” The look on the nurse’s face could only be described as quite embarrassed, for she sadly admitted that she did not have a lollipop or even a sticker for that matter. And so the journey of the lollipop began…

Judy was dismayed, David was disappointed, but if there’s one thing Judy has taught all of us, there’s always a solution to a problem. Judy took David’s hand and with a gentle smile said, “Come by my office tomorrow, a lollipop will be waiting for you.” Judy did not bring just one lollipop to her office; she brought an entire bag of Dum Dum lollipops. While there are many types of lollipops to pick from, she specifically chose Dum Dum lollipops for their small size, minimal amount of sugar, multiple flavors and, of course, always gluten free. The next day as David came bouncing into the office to check if Miss Judy was true to her word, a huge smile formed from ear to ear, for Miss Judy had not one but several Dum Dums for David! She greeted him with her warm smile, gave him a hug, and asked, “How are you feeling?” David had all but forgotten about his stitches as he ran out the door while enjoying his lollipop and meeting up with his friends. As Judy took a breath, watched the moment unfold, her heart was full…

The story did not end there. The next day, David came back to the Preschool Office with a friend to see if Miss Judy had any more lollipops left in her bag. Judy was tickled pink that he was clever enough to know that she might have a few more to hand out. David got to pick out another Dum Dum and so did his friend. As one can well imagine, before long, the entire school got wind of Miss Judy’s lollipops! Shortly thereafter, a preschool family gave Miss Judy the jar of lollipops that we still use today. As the tradition grew, so did her relationship with Spangler Candy Company (now buying in bulk); she knew the popular flavors, always buying extra pink and blue ones, making sure she would never run out. Judy enjoyed every minute of passing out lollipops and interacting with the children as much as the children loved receiving the small treat after class. A sweet tradition that will always live on at WPC Preschool!

Sending peace, love and lollipops as we honor Miss Judy Hightower.
The Westminster Presbyterian Church and Preschool Community

Click here to see the "Lessons of the Lollipops".

Judy loved everything about WPCP, but our outdoor classroom held a special place in her heart. Our preschool board, parent advisory board, and property committee are working together to build a fitting memorial in and around the yard that will carry Judy’s name and share her story. Any funds in excess of the memorial needs will be used to directly enrich the preschool students’ experience. Potential examples include a needs-based scholarship, renovation to the preschool outdoor spaces, etc.

You can give to this fund the following ways:
• https://pushpay.com/g/wpcwestlake?src=hpp (select “Judy Hightower Memorial Fund”)
• Venmo Donation to @wpcWestlake (in description write “Judy Hightower Memorial Fund”)
• Mail a Donation: Westminster Presbyterian Church 32111 Watergate Rd. Westlake Village, CA 91361 (designate “Judy Hightower Memorial Fund” on check)