WPCS is a parent-coop pre-school for ages 2-5 in West Philly. We value play, respect & compassion, diversity, nature & creativity & low costs for parents!
The West Philadelphia Cooperative School began in 2005 as a rotation of a three or four parents providing child-centered learning for our children. Our membership has grown to fluctuate between fifteen to twenty families and two to three full-time teachers, but our school still depends on the energy and talents of members. Parents complete all administrative and operational tasks associated with the school and function as the school’s decision-making body.
Our curriculum is based on the idea that each child is wonderfully capable of being, growing and becoming their own unique self in the midst of their various communities. We do not view children as small adults or empty vessel needing to be filled, but as individuals with their own ideas, feelings and abilities who play key roles in shaping the movements of our school day.
We seek to enact a play based emergent curriculum, based on the needs and interests of our attending children. We foster mixed aged group interaction, and encourage friendships to form among the varying ages of our students. As teachers, we empower our students to build self control and self esteem by assisting and encouraging them to successfully complete daily tasks, such as putting on their shoes or going to the bathroom.
We strongly believe in learning within our neighborhood, and often utilize the outdoor classrooms of our community garden and local parks, as well as our nearby library and food cooperative.
We are open 9 am - 2 pm, with aftercare from 2-5 pm as an available option.
We run a summer camp that is open to families who may not attend during the regular school year, with four 2-week sessions in June and July.
Learning through play.
Creating an educational community.
Recognizing children as full people.
Engaging with and teaching about nature.
Supporting diversity and compassion.
Keeping costs low through parent/caregiver cooperation.
