A Cooperative Approach

Parents and guardians are responsible for every aspect of the school’s operation. Their involvement is central to who we are and how we function:

• Parents/guardians make up the Board of Directors, which hires teachers, sets tuition, and establishes school policy.

• Parents/guardians coordinate publicity, lead fundraising, and collaborate with staff on recruitment and enrollment.

• Parents/guardians manage the budget and pay the bills.

• Parents/guardians work side-by-side with staff each day—supervising and playing with students, facilitating projects, and sharing their talents and skills.

• Parents/guardians clean the facilities, maintain the outdoor space, and prepare snacks.

By choosing this school, each family accepts not only responsibility for their own child’s preschool education, but also an active role in shaping the program as a whole. Every member of the community is an integral part of the school; everyone’s thoughts, abilities, and perspectives are valued and woven into our daily work.

Each member has the right to expect a high-quality school experience, and the responsibility to work cooperatively to ensure the continued success of the Cooperative Nursery School.

Though much has changed over the past fifty-plus years, these core benefits and values remain central to the Cooperative Nursery School experience.