community education
The Cooperative School offers a dynamic family education program rooted in early childhood development. Teachers provide families with regular insights into classroom experiences, child development, and the pedagogy that shapes our curriculum. Families receive practical tips to support learning at home and guidance on how to preserve children’s ongoing access to nature, play, and art.
Monthly evening meetings include workshops on topics like communication, positive discipline, parenting strategies, and scaffolding play. Families also practice conflict resolution skills and learn how to actively support curriculum delivery—deepening their understanding of child development while strengthening our cooperative community.
Families are integral to the life of the Cooperative School. Working alongside professional educators, parents secure and Uphold the daily experience of the children and the direction of the school.
Our Board of Directors is made up of current member families, and all parents fill key roles that sustain operations and uphold our shared commitment to community, equity, and access to nature-based learning.
All community members are given training and guidance as well as feedback for fulfilling their roles assisting in the classroom and as stewards of the School. In turn, they are encouraged to share skills and experiences as they complete their committee and board duties. This reciprocal and collaborative process strengthens the program for future generations of families and students and has sustained the model since 1942.