Why We Co-op

It is our central belief that parents are children’s first teachers. We also believe that parent involvement at Cedar Lane Nursery School is good for both the child and the parent. By assisting in the classroom, and in helping with the operation of our school, parents play a significant role in the children’s experience. Working under the guidance of the teacher, parents also have the opportunity to learn a great deal about child development.

The special nature of Cedar Lane Nursery School is the partnership and working relationship between parents and teachers. This relationship fosters an understanding of child development and parent/child relationships, which parents can carry over into their home environment for the enrichment of their personal family life. The bi-weekly participation of parents in the classroom, the parent education presentations on topics of interest to the school community, and our active membership with professional associations such as Potomac Association of Co-operative Teachers (PACT), Parent Cooperative Preschools International (PCPI), and National Association of Education for Young Children (NAEYC) enhance our philosophy of children, parents, and teachers working and learning together.

The preschool years are much more than the time before “real school.” They are an unparalleled time of growth, joy, and wonder. What a wonderful time for parents to be involved in their child’s life! In return for an investment of time and energy, parents who co-op have opportunities to grow in knowledge and understanding of the world of young children, while enjoying a shared experience with like-minded parents. Co-oping is a responsibility and a commitment to the membership; it is also a gift to your child. We believe childhood is more than just preparation for adulthood. It is a one-way journey, to be enjoyed along the way by children and the adults who care about them.

 
 

Testimonials

Testimonials

We have been part of the CLNS family for three years now. I can confidently say that this school is a rare gem not only for its curriculum, fantastic teachers, but also for the strong community that parents, children, and teachers are all part of. I am somewhat of an expert on pre-schools in the area, as my oldest daughter was enrolled in three different schools before we became part of CLNS. None of those schools were co-ops and so I did not know what I was missing out on! My bond with my children is so much stronger because I have been part of their pre-school experience through CLNS

— Szabina Taylor

CLNS has been an incredible community for my family. We moved to the area 4 years ago, not knowing anyone, and CLNS immediately became a great outlet for meeting other families in the area. All 3 of my sons have thrived at CLNS. As a parent, I have loved the opportunity to watch them interact with their classmates and to really get to know their teachers through co-oping. It's such a gift. We feel so lucky to have found CLNS!

— Casey Crimmins

My son absolutely LOVES Cedar Lane Nursery. He is constantly talking about school and all his friends. The teachers are fantastic and I really feel that he is given one-on-one care and attention. Being a first time mom, I was nervous transitioning my two year old into school, but he adapted quickly and I can already see how much he's learning and growing; not to mention he's socializing so well with the other kids in his class. We are so exited to graduate to the 2/3's class next year!

— Arlet Koseian

My daughter is in her second year here and loves it. When she first started, it was her first experience with group care and I was nervous about how she would handle the transition. Luckily, the small class sizes and co-op setup helped make the transition much easier than I feared! A wonderful school that allows kids to play as they should while learning everything they need for kindergarten!

— Peihan Orestes

Our 2 kids are enrolled in the school. They love it and we couldn't be happier! Cedar Lane was our first experience on a co-op school so we were not sure very well what to expect, yet the experience has been fantastic! Being able to participate in my kids development at school has been a truly rewarding experience. The teachers and the parent community are excellent, always ready to support each other, working as a community. Highly recommend it!

— Mariano Salto

 

What is Co-oping?

Co-op Responsibilities Include:

  • A parent works in the classroom approximately 2 times per month. Due to our focus on community building and fairness, CLNS does not offer a non-cooping option.

  • Supplying fresh food snack (e.g., fruit, vegetables, cheese, yogurt, hummus) for your child’s class approximately once a month on one of your co-op days.

  • Attending an orientation for new members to learn more about your role and classroom logistics.

  • Attending regular membership meetings.

  • Fulfilling duties of an assigned job (e.g.: librarian, field trip coordinator, newsletter, etc..)

  • Participating in two 3-hour workdays. Generally held on Saturdays in August and March. Buyouts are available.

  • Participating in fundraising events.

 

What is Expected of Co-opers in the Classroom:

  • Get to know the children, their personalities and preferences.

  • Bring your talents and skills to the classroom.

  • Your primary role is to assist the teacher. Communicate with the teacher and help with the day’s schedule and plans.

  • Enjoy your time with your child(ren) and their classmates!

  • Embrace opportunities to learn more, and share, about early childhood development via articles, books, workshops and events.

 

Remember that the classroom belongs to the children, and their ideas may not be the same as adults. Take time to listen to their view; ask questions, and watch the beauty of childhood unfold before you!