What is a Co-op?
"Cooperative" or "co-op" defines a group of people coming together in a joint effort. A
cooperative preschool is a group of parents joining together to best educate their young
children. At GPCP we hire professional teachers to develop the curriculum, teach all
classes, and guide each child through their school day.
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is managed differently than other schools. Cooperative preschools
are guided by a Board of Directors that meets monthly to establish
policies and guidelines for the operation of the school. The Board
of the GPCP is made up of parents who volunteer their time. Each
spring, new board members are elected.
Cooperative preschools are terrific places to share first-hand your
child's initial school experiences.
Co-ops are not-for-profit, non-discriminatory organizations
maintained and administered by the parents of children who are
enrolled.
For more information about cooperative preschools, we recommend
that you visit the web site of Parent Cooperative Preschools
International,our professional organization.
“It is wonderful having parents assist in the classroom! I have
seen many long-term friendships develop among families because
of the special bonds created through helping in the classroom.
Parents provide an extra measure of loving care when working
with their own child and his or her classmates.” – Laura
Pleasants, teacher
When helping in the classroom, parents get to observe firsthand
their child's triumphs and joys in what is often their first
structured social situation and first formal school experience.
Of course, it's a lot of fun too!
Rewards of a Co-op Education
The Granville Parent Cooperative Preschool combines the two most important ingredients
for a successful first school experience: the expertise of a professional teacher and the
best expert on your child...YOU!
At no other time in your child's education will you be able to be this involved. Whether
you are helping in the classroom or attending a board meeting, the school benefits from
your input.
interest: stories, science, art, music, and creative play to name
a few.
“By allowing parents to help in the classroom, the Co-op gives
them the opportunity to see what and how their kids are
learning. The Co-op…helps parents learn to be a community,
and lasting friendships are formed.” – Lisa, parent
Because of parent involvement, our tuition is very affordable
compared to other preschools in the area.
You will find acceptance of your expertise as your child's
parent. This is a place where teachers listen to your thoughts
concerning your child and work with you to meet your child's
needs.
Our families have fun outside of class too. Examples include:
- A group of moms from the 2005-2006 4's/5's class started Market in the Park. At
this entrepreneurial venture they sell gourmet foods, unique clothing items, as
well as handmade candles and bath products.
- Moms from a variety of classes formed a book club in 2004. This group continues
to meet monthly at the Granville Inn to discuss the latest titles.
- A 2's class from 2004-2005 still meets regularly for a variety of adventures
including outings to the park, visits to Kraner Nature Center, special exhibits at
COSI, and even an occasional Moms' Night Out!