Three year old preschool program
What Is the Co-op?
The Co-op is a social based program for children. Social skills, such as how to be a good friend and resolving peer conflict are some of the core touchstones of the program. The Co-op also promotes development of routines, rules, and familiarity with the classroom, all while learning through play! The class typically averages one field trip each month. Some trips are taken via school bus, while others require parent drop off and pick up on location (all in the Ashwaubenon area). In addition, some excursions, such as our Fall Pumpkin Hunt are walking field trips!
The Co-op is special due to its emphasis on family involvement. During the school year, families will join the classroom as ‘Special Helper’ approximately five to six sessions. As the Special Helper adult, parents, grandparents, or another special adult in the child’s life will be welcomed into our School Family! The Special Helper student will have the opportunity to bring in a Show and Share item and lead the Calendar time, while the adult has an opportunity to help out in the classroom and engage with the children. Special Helper is also responsible for providing the nutritional snack for that day.
The Co-op also has a Board of Directors, which is led by parent volunteers. Positions include President, Vice President (in charge of fundraising) and Secretary. Commitment to the Co-op Board lasts for the duration of the school year and can be shared between two members.
Typical Day:
The children are transported to school by their caregiver, and arrive between 8:25 and 8:30 AM. Once all children arrive, we begin our Morning Meeting. During Morning Meeting, we make note of who may be missing in our School Family and wish those friends well. If everyone is present, we have an opportunity to celebrate with our School Family song!
During Morning Meeting, our Special Helper student has the opportunity to present a Show and Share item. During this time, language development is fostered and question/answer skills are practiced in a fun and informal setting.
After Morning Meeting, the class moves on to a Group Time. During Group, the students may be engaging in finger plays, stretching their gross motor muscles through music and movement activities, or working on social emotional skills via interacting with peers through discussion and exploration of a themed topic. Books and other stories are also shared during this time to promote beginning literacy skills and concepts of print.
Because the Co-op program is socially based, the largest portion of time is dedicated to Center Play. During Center Play, the children are encouraged to try out various activities that include, but are not limited to: art, science, math and manipulatives, blocks and building, dramatic play, a library corner, listening center, iPads and technology, sensory table, writing center and flannel boards. Materials change frequently, with child interest and engagement in mind. During Center Play, the children are encouraged to practice friendship skills and conflict resolution with the teachers available to support the success of these interactions.
When Center Play closes, the children move on to either Outdoor Play or Music and Movement (depending on time allotment and weather) to stretch their gross motor muscles yet again!
When the moving is done, children enjoy a nutritious snack provided by the Special Helper family. During this time, students practice social manners, proper hygiene, motor skills such as pouring, scooping and passing, and also enjoy extra practice with language development through conversations with teachers and peers.
Finally, when the day is near a close, the students reconvene for a Goodbye Time. The children are able to practice self-help skills, such as dressing, before the day is recapped and the Goodbye song is sung. During this time, caregivers are typically arriving and may wait in the Co-op’s foyer for 11:00 dismissal. One of the Co-op teachers will be present at this time to communicate the day’s activities to parents. The students are dismissed one by one to ensure safety for each family.
Class Size:
The Co-op is licensed to serve 18 children per class session. There are two teachers and one adult helper at all times, giving a ratio of 1:6 for children to adults. These numbers allow for more quality interactions and support for each child.
Schedule:
The Co-op session begins the second week in September and ends in mid-May. Classes are held Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 8:30 AM to 11:00 AM.
Tuition:
The Coop does not receive public education funding, and thus, relies on tuition to keep doors open. However, the Coop is proud of their comparable and economical rates! Here is a breakdown of the tuition commitment:
• Registration fee: There is a $75 nonrefundable fee for registering. This holds a child’s spot in the program.
• Tuition: $1,475 per year. Installments are due in $400 increments in September, November and February.
• Fundraising: There are opportunities for families throughout the school year to earn up to $200 towards the tuition. These activities are not required and families may choose whether or not to participate.
Enrollment Window:
Enrollment begins yearly in late January and extends until sessions are filled. Registration and enrollment are done on a first come, first serve basis.
Transportation:
It is the family’s responsibility to transport the student to and from school. We do encourage carpooling with other families if the need arises!
Contacting Us:
If you would like to schedule a tour to check out the classroom or meet the teacher, you can set up an appointment with Ms. Patty or Ms. Mallory via phone or email.
Phone: (920) 490-1171
Email: [email protected]
