How much does the school cost? What days and at what time do classes meet?
See the Programs and Fees page for this information.
How often do I need to work in the classroom?
Approximately 1-2 times per month. On those days, you arrive 15 minutes before drop-off time, and stay 15 minutes after pick-up time in order to complete the parent helper tasks as specified by the teacher. Your child can be in the classroom during that time.
Are Parent Meetings, Fundraising, or working in the classroom mandatory?
Yes. At least one parent or guardian must attend our parent meetings, assist in our fundraising efforts, and volunteer in the classroom. As a co-op preschool, our program relies on our member families to engage in parent education, help us maintain our student/teacher classroom ratios, and ensure we meet our financial obligations.
When I volunteer in the classroom, may I bring my other children with me?
Unfortunately, you cannot bring children with you when you volunteer (other than the children you have enrolled in the class already). Doing so adversely impacts our insurance coverage, and affects the student/teacher ratio that we are required to maintain in our classrooms.
What fundraising does the school do, and what is my expected contribution?
We typically have two fundraisers – one in the Fall and one in the Spring. Examples have included Fun Runs and Garage Sales. Each family is asked to collect donations or contribute in other ways (i.e., garage sale items). Parent volunteering at this events and other participation is included in your commitment to being a co-op family.
What if I am interested in donating to the program?
Our co-op preschool operates as a non-profit and donations are tax-deductible. Checks should be made out to “Children’s Co-Op Preschool.” Donations can also be made online on our webpage.
What is the preschool’s relationship to Whatcom Community College (WCC)?
The WCC website explains: “Whatcom Community College is affiliated with preschool programs in Bellingham and throughout Whatcom County. Based on the belief that parents are the first and most important teachers of their children, cooperative preschools offer an educational experience for both parents and children. Parents are enrolled in a WCC Parent Education class when they place their preschooler in a preschool.” Please contact us directly if you would like additional information on our parent education program facilitated by WCC.
How does communication happen between parents and CCP?
Teachers write a monthly letter to parents in each class, describing that month’s themes and activities. Each day’s specific songs, stories, activities are posted on a board outside the classroom so parents see this at drop-off and pick-up times. Parents have a specific place to pick up their newsletters, book club order forms, and their children’s art. Teachers welcome questions from parents, both in and out of the classroom. And, one night a month, parents, teachers, and the WCC facilitators meet at the school to discuss any preschool business, plus a parent education topic. There is also an e-mail distribution list for each class plus the entire preschool, for relevant announcements and news.
Can I visit my child’s classroom?
Yes, you are welcome to join your child’s classroom at any time.
Do the children go on field trips?
Yes, classes will take field trips, varying per class. Past field trips have included children’s museums, pumpkin patches, fire stations, and the Mt. Baker Theater.
Will I have to provide classroom supplies?
No. Your registration and supply fee covers classroom supplies for the year.
childrenscooppreschool.com 