WHAT IS A CO-OP?
A cooperative preschool is a private, nonprofit entity run by the teachers in conjunction with its members, who are parents of the students.
Co-op philosophy recognizes that parents are the primary educators of their children and encourages parents to share their interests and talents in the classroom, and in the greater co-op community.
Today, cooperative preschools are enjoying a renaissance thanks to changing attitudes towards work and family, and to many parents’ desire to play a larger role in their child’s development and education. Families who seek out co-ops are committed to being actively involved in the life of the school.They have an active willinginess to contriubute to their child's school and education. Co-ops bring families with young children together around the issues of education, parenting, community, and care. Co-op parents have the willingness and ability to be a significant part of their child’s school and education. Cooperative preschools are not for every family.
For a cooperative preschool to be successful, each family has to be committed to creating an enriching and safe learning environment for their child.
This direct parental involvement makes the cooperative a unique educational opportunity. The children grow in mind, body, and spirit as teachers and other parents nurture them with acceptance and kindness.
CO-OP BENEFITS
FOR PARENTS
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Families get stronger as Moms and Dads develop their parenting skills and increase their awareness of their children’s development and needs.
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A co-op is a network of friends with many of the same interests and concerns, who can accompany each other through the good and the challenging times in parenting.
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It’s exciting and enlightening to observe one’s child interact with peers and other adults in a group setting.
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Parents have an opportunity to contribute their talents and perhaps discover new ones.
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Parents have involvement in all aspects of their child’s education and a voice in school decisions and policymaking.
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Communication with teachers is more frequent and more effective.
CO-OP BENEFITS
FOR CHILDREN
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School is special when a parent is there to share it.
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Children develop a more positive attitude toward school.
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Children see the value their parents place on education.
- School is more easily extended beyond the classroom, leading to a lifelong habit of learning.
- Children develop a greater sense of pride and self-esteem from “showing off” their parents.
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Children build relationships with familiar, loving adults who accept each child in a safe and nurturing environment.