Narrows Cooperative Preschool follows the University Place school districts calendar from September until May.
1. Your child does NOT have to be potty trained to enroll.
2. Ages 2-5 can enroll...yes, 2!!
3. Parent participation is required.
This is where the "cooperative" part plays in. Depending on class size, expect to work in the classroom approximately 3-4 times a month.
Fundraising events and other school activities are expected participation and sign-up sheets are usually posted in the entrance for volunteer positions at each event.
It is expected that each "family" volunteers at each event, with a minimum of at least 2 events a year.
Each family is also expected to be involved in cleaning the school as well. Each parent will take one night a year to come in with an assigned group to clean the school. Cleaning will happen once a month and can be planned for anytime that is conducive to the group you signed on with.
4. Participation in Bates Parent Education Program is required. Remember, you are enrolling yourself in school as well! Usually 1 event a month called "parent ed" will be available for you to attend, either through the co-op or at Bates. These can be several different types of events from orientation, to Trike-a-thon to parent-share (done during class-time in an adjoining room). Parent-share time has minimal hassle and can include siblings and will be mediated by our Bates Coordinator. By the end of the school year, parents must have completed a certain number of parent ed credits. Usually, this is not a problem for most parents and is not difficult to complete.
Don't worry, I know it sounds like a lot, but that's the difference that co-op offers! You are learning with your child and thus making the communication and love even stronger between you and your child. It may seem funny to think, but if you are comfortable in class (because you spend time in there) your child will be comforted as well!