La Jolla United Methodist Church Nursery School director Becky Candra will retire at the end of this summer after more than 27 years of dedication, leaving behind a legacy that will not be easily replaced. During her tenure spanning nearly three decades, Candra has enriched the lives of children parents and teachers alike through her unique theory and practice of early childhood development. She contends that the best preparation for academic life is grounded in play. “Especially for preschool kids, most of us construct our knowledge through interactive play,” Candra said. “Through play a child is trying out theories of life all the time and exploring where they are supposed to be.” Her vision for the school is to encourage natural curiosity, exploration and creativity in children to foster an environment where children want to learn. The children in her nursery school, ages 2 to 5, are not pressured to adhere to a set curriculum. Instead, the curriculum is open-ended and chosen through reciprocal interaction among the children and staff. In addition to creating a generation of children that love learning, Candra’s dedication to the nursery school since 1984 has contributed to the growth of parents and teachers as well. “It’s fun to see parents and teachers change and grow,” she said, emphasizing that their time, energy, and concern make a tremendous difference in the children. Candra’s daily presence around the nursery will be sorely missed by children, parents, teachers and staff. “She will be missed most for her big heart and loving spirit,” said Tina Wynn, who worked with Candra for 20 years as assistant nursery school director. “She stayed committed to her philosophy of letting children be children,” she said. “I will miss most being part of the wonderful community of people there,” Candra said. However, she looks forward to the opportunity to “slow down without dropping out.” Candra will continue her part-time career as a professor of child development at Grossmont College and looks forward to traveling and spending time with her family. Candra’s legacy was scheduled to be feted during a church celebration, potluck lunch and open house at La Jolla United Methodist Church on June 13 for all families who have been impacted and enriched by Candra’s work throughout the years.