How does a Co-op work?

A Co-op preschool is owned and maintained by the parents of the children enrolled on a non-profit, nonsectarian basis. Parents assist teachers in the classroom on a rotating basis and share in the business operation of the school. Cooperative preschools are terrific places to share firsthand in your child’s education! Cooperatives offer a safe, secure and gradual transition from home to school for your child. The cooperative philosophy is based on these very important components: parental involvement; developmentally appropriate programs; and social, emotional, and cognitive skill-building by learning through play. Parent participation is one of the most consistent predictors of a child's school success and achievement. Co-op preschools are a great environment for adults to develop new friendships and build support networks with other parents.

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Parent’s Role in a Co-op Preschool

Classroom Participation

Your main responsibility will be to help in the classroom on a rotating basis. Depending upon class size, you will be required to assist once or twice a month in the classroom and also once as an early return parent helping to prepare our classrooms for the next day once class is completed.

Job Assignments

Each family will be assigned a job necessary to keep the school operating efficiently. Your assignment will be based off your registration data or interests/specialities you have expressed. Examples of jobs: fundraising committee, outdoor classroom maintenance, and materials organizing. There will be opportunities to serve on various committees throughout the year for those who are able to volunteer their time further.

Parent Ed & Service Hour Requirements

Each family is required to earn 4 parent education credits in addition to providing 4 hours of service to the school during the school year for full year students.

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Parents are required to attend the following events:

Nature’s Pointe Orientation

This program introduces you to the parent board of directors and explains school and classroom policies and procedures. It is held in August.

ICPC Orientation/Classroom Participation Training

This 6 hour professional-led training session is required for all first time participating members. It describes co-op philosophy and prepares you for your role as a teacher’s assistant. The training includes classroom observation and group discussion.  One training session usually lasts the duration of your child(ren)'s enrollment in co-op. To pay the $25 fee for this training, see the bottom of our Members page.

Membership Meetings

Because our school is owned and run by our parents, we hold periodic membership meetings to discuss school business. These meetings are typically held in September, January and April.