Advantages of a Co-op
Many people choose cooperative preschools because of the unique advantages for both parent and child. Co-ops have a low child-to-adult ratio. Therefore they can accommodate each child’s individual pace and learning style. The environment is safe and nurturing. Co-ops can bridge the gap between home and school in a reassuring way. Children grow from the input of many friendly, trustworthy adults.
Studies show that parent involvement in education is the factor most highly correlated with children’s school success. Parent involvement is more important than social class, teacher’s input, or curriculum. Children are delighted that we value them and their education enough to want to share intimately in their first school experience. This builds both self esteem and motivation to learn.
Parents in the co-op report an increased understanding of child development, education, and parenting. Parents increase their support networks for sharing and discussing problems and growth. They value the chance to observe other children of the same age.
Parents also develop new skills in group leadership and small business management that often are useful and/or marketable as their children grow older.
Who’s Who in a Co-op?
CHILDREN
Attend preschool 2-3 days per week. Learn to separate easily from parents, follow a school routine, explore, and discover. Learn to trust and communicate with many adults and children. Participate in many social, physical, and cognitive learning activities.
PARENTS
Attend parent meetings and parent help in the classroom. Engage with your parent/child community through events, attend educational lectures and workshops sponsored by the school. Pay preschool tuition and help fundraise to support school. Elect and/or serve on the board. Commit to meeting minimum requirements and do a share of tasks necessary to run the school.
CO-OP BOARD
Meet monthly. Coordinate management and operation of preschool including decision making about finances, personnel, facility, policies and procedures. Hire teacher(s). Register children for school. Orient parents. Comply with local, state, and federal business laws. Pay for insurance and implements risk management procedures. Sign an annual agreement with the college and attend annual board trainings.
PRESCHOOL TEACHER
(Hired and supervised by board.) Plan learning program for children based on current ECE research theory, and practice. Function as the head teacher in the classroom, coordinating the parent helpers. Build relationships with each child, create a safe and nurturing environment and lead by example for parent helpers. Work with board and family educators to obtain school goals. Attend board meetings, teacher in-services, and parent meetings.
We are currently enrolling for the 2024-25 school year!
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We are currently enrolling for the 2024-25 school year! *
We are currently enrolling for the 2026-2027 school year!
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We are currently enrolling for the 2026-2027 school year! *
