What is a co-op preschool?

 

Cherry Lane was founded in 1956 by a local teacher and mother who wanted a preschool experience for her child and the other Holland area preschoolers. For 60 years Cherry Lane has successfully operated as a non profit cooperative preschool.  

 

But what exactly does that mean?  In short, it means the school is an organization that is owned and managed by the members of the group. The parents of the current students are the members.  

 

There is a parent board that consists of 5 to 6 parents who make the decisions necessary to keep the school running smoothly, but it takes all of the members for Cherry Lane to stay afloat.  

 

Cherry Lane employs two teachers, a director, and an assistant, but all other responsibilities are met by the members. The members are the classroom helpers, the janitors, the fund raisers, toy cleaners, yard and facility maintenance people, basically whatever needs to be cared for is done by the members.

 

Cherry Lane offers an independent option for those who are unable to be a classroom helper on a monthly basis, but even independent members are required to help out by serving in some capacity (committee).  Whether it means coming in one weekend and cleaning,  raking in the fall, or working on a fund raiser, all parents are required to help out in a small way.  When at full capacity we are 72 families strong, so no one family carries too heavy a load.

 

Although there is a small time commitment (helping in your child’s classroom one time each month) involved with a cooperative preschool, most parents find it is a rewarding experience for both their child and for them as parents.  It is a great bridge between home and elementary school.  The parents are able to work in the classroom and interact with their child and others in a school setting.  Many parents have forged lifelong friendship while participating in a cooperative preschool.  It is a safe and nurturing place for your child’s first experience with formal education.

 

Cherry Lane is a GREAT PLACE and we think you will be glad you were able to join us.  

 

However, a cooperative preschool is not for everyone.  You have to ask yourself, “Am I willing and able to help in some way in the management and operations of a co-op?”  

 

If you can answer “Yes!” then a co-op is for you.  

 

As our motto says……..

CHERRY LANE IS A TRADITION WORTH SHARING!