Who We Are…
The Stanwood Cooperative Preschool (SCP) has been owned and operated by families from the Stanwood, Camano Island, and Arlington areas since 1976. Our preschool is staffed by professional teachers who work together with parents to operate a successful, stimulating and engaging classroom. Our basic philosophy is that young children learn best through hands-on activities and the social interactions of play.
What is a Cooperative Preschool?
A cooperative preschool is a community of parents and children working and learning together. We welcome parents, grandparents and other caregivers to participate in our program. Our program encourages parents to share their interests and talents. Parents involvement on a weekly basis in the classroom is enriching, not only for the child but also the parent, allowing a glimpse into your child's world, at the same time sending a message to the child that they are important.
In addition to working in the classroom, parents participate in the operation of the school and
Benefits for Children: Children are encouraged to express themselves verbally, emotionally and creatively through the rich diverse mediums of language, art, dramatic play, block building, music, and movement.
Benefits for Parents: Hands on participation in all aspects of early childhood education.
Information and ideas on child development and parenting skills are embedded in the classroom, at business meetings, and in parent enrichment.
In addition to working in the classroom, parents participate in the operation of the school and
- Attend regular parent business meetings (3 times per school year)
- Hold a parent job or serve as a member of the board of directors
- Serve on committees to support the many facets of the cooperative
- Fundraising projects and events
- Attend regular parent education sessions
Benefits for Children: Children are encouraged to express themselves verbally, emotionally and creatively through the rich diverse mediums of language, art, dramatic play, block building, music, and movement.
- Our children develop a positive attitude toward school.
- Small child to parent/teacher ratio creates a nurturing and attentive environment.
- Learning is special when a parent is there to share it!
Benefits for Parents: Hands on participation in all aspects of early childhood education.
Information and ideas on child development and parenting skills are embedded in the classroom, at business meetings, and in parent enrichment.
- A support network of friends with the same interests and concerns
- An opportunity to observe the first years of school
- Discover new and hidden talents while contributing abilities
- A voice in school decisions and policy-making
- Ease of communication with teachers
- A chance to effectively advocate on behalf of children
- Personal involvement in your child's learning has a lasting impact on you and your community
Our Educators…
Our Lab Coordinator (Teacher Beka) works with parents to provide a warm, nurturing environment in which the children can learn and create. She also provides parents with information about age appropriate learning and behaviors.
Our Parent Educator (Jennifer Rice) works with parents to develop and enhance parenting skills through class time interaction as well as evening sessions. They also work with the Lab Coordinator to ensure a developmentally appropriate classroom environment and serve as an adviser to the Executive Board.
Our Lab Coordinator (Teacher Beka) works with parents to provide a warm, nurturing environment in which the children can learn and create. She also provides parents with information about age appropriate learning and behaviors.
Our Parent Educator (Jennifer Rice) works with parents to develop and enhance parenting skills through class time interaction as well as evening sessions. They also work with the Lab Coordinator to ensure a developmentally appropriate classroom environment and serve as an adviser to the Executive Board.
