What is a Parent Cooperative Preschool?
Parent participation is at the heart of the co-op experience and its day-to-day workings.
In a co-op preschool, parents and caregivers are actively involved with the daily class activities of children and the creation and implementation of the school philosophy and rules. Parents and caregivers work in the classroom as teachers’ assistants under the direction of a professional director/teacher.
Families assume many responsibilities in the administration of the school. LCP operates as a nonprofit and the Board of Directors is composed of parents who oversee the financial and operational functions of the school. The efforts of parents and their direct involvement during the school day make cooperative preschools a unique educational experience.
Why Choose a Co-op?
- You are directly involved in your child’s first school experience, giving you a better feel for how your child learns and interacts with others.
- You learn from parents, teachers, and other children right along with your child. Your child will benefit from observing you interact with other children and from their interaction with numerous caring adults in a safe and supportive environment.
- You increase your understanding of the developmental needs of children and learn parenting techniques for supporting children at school and at home.
- Your child will be assured a high adult-to-child ratio, meaning lots of helping hands and individual attention for each child.
- You receive support and information about early childhood development through parent education meetings, speakers, and articles.
- You are given a strong and direct voice in decisions and policy-making.
- You will get to know your child’s peers and observe your child’s social development
- You will be a part of an exceptional community, make connections, and share experiences and concerns with parents just like you!