FAQ about Cooperative Preschool

A cooperative preschool aims to foster a family environment where the Director, Teacher, and Parents collaborate in the classroom. This teamwork in daily operations allows each child to grow and develop according to their individual needs. We believe that the involvement and commitment of parents in the co-op enhance joyful learning experiences for children as they embark on one of their first ventures away from home.

Preschool serves as a valuable learning experience for both parents and children. Parents have the opportunity to observe and interact with various children, as well as witness their own child's interactions with peers and adults. Our cooperative preschool nurtures the entire family by helping parents gain a deeper understanding and enjoyment of their child during this significant chapter in their life. We adhere to Developmentally Appropriate Practice and a play-based learning curriculum. Enrollment is open for those interested in joining our community. More info on DAP can be found here.

As a Helper Parent at our cooperative preschool, you will assist staff with the children and take on cleaning duties about one day each month. We encourage you to visit the preschool whenever you like. You will also attend 2 Parent Workdays, which are great opportunities for parents to collaborate on cleaning, renovating, repairing, and taking on special school projects. These workdays are scheduled two or three times a year, typically once in the Fall and again in the Spring. It's essential for an adult from each family to participate in two workdays. Each family will hold a 'job' at the preschool, contributing either by serving on the Board of Directors or fulfilling another support role each year. Jobs are assigned prior to the start of the school year and continue until its end. Additionally, you will engage in fundraisers and social events that enhance our play-based learning environment. Enrollment is open, so join us in creating a vibrant community for our children.

Using a play-based learning approach, our cooperative preschool program provides a safe, nurturing environment and a creative atmosphere that allows children to function at their own developmental level while stimulating them to their next stage of growth. The environment is carefully planned to help children learn to become independent and make choices while setting limits that allow them to feel secure. 

We provide an opportunity for children to become familiar with group settings, to develop self-expression, creativity, a sense of responsibility, and an interest and joy in learning. We respect diversity and strive to explore many cultures. Through new experiences, a child may broaden the spectrum of his or her world. 

Children attend a weekly Chapel, participate in daily prayers, and enjoy Christian youth songs. 

Enrichment activities include Spanish, multicultural presentations, community visitors, and others, depending on the talents and skills of parents and families. 

Enrollment is open for all faiths and backgrounds.

The cooperative preschool program accepts 15 children each school year. The Director, Lead Teacher, and one Parent are present each day to guide, play, and explore with the children. All parents assisting in the preschool must complete a background check. All employees are fingerprinted, have completed a background check, and are certified in First Aid & CPR. 

We are also blessed to be partnering with Texas State University. Each semester, interns from TSU who are studying Early Childhood Development come in weekly to help with the children. Not only are the children learning through the different projects that the interns bring, but they are also experiencing the benefits of play-based learning in a cooperative environment. Enrollment is open for those interested in joining our community.

The cooperative preschool (PPCP) welcomes potty-trained children who are 3 years old by September 1st of the year they enroll, along with 4 and 5 year-olds. Enrollment is open to those eager to participate in our play-based learning environment. *Exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis for children who turn 3 by Nov 1st.

The cooperative preschool holds classes on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 8:15/8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The PPCP runs on the same holiday schedule as the SMCISD. Enrollment is open for classes that begin in mid-August and end on the last Wednesday in May. Our preschool emphasizes play-based learning and is closed during the summer.