our philosophy
Children learn through play. At Big Bend Cooperative Preschool, children are encouraged to explore on their own, with other children, and with parents through theme related activities. BBCP provides an interactive and meaningful environment through organized activities called centers. Centers can include activities to explore dramatic play, develop gross motor skills, recognize social cues, practice emotional regulation, and enjoy story time, music, and snacks.
parent owned cooperative
By participating in our parent-owned cooperative program, you give the gift of time and energy to your child. You will have opportunities to observe and assist your young child in exploring and learning, while sharing parenting ideas with your peers. Based on a developmentally appropriate and play-based education model, this is a unique hands on experience for both you and your child.
All parents at our school take an active role in the classroom and the daily operations of the school. Toddler Parents attend every class with their child. Preschool and Homeschool Hive Parents assist as “working parents” in the classroom on a rotating schedule. In addition, parents from all classes volunteer for a chairmanship or board member position.
Each parent in the Preschool and Homeschool Hive classes signs up as a working parent on a rotating schedule. There are several working parent shifts available each day of class. The number of working days is equally distributed between parents in the class. Parents should expect to be a “working parent” two to three times per month.
Working in the classroom creates connections and community between our families and allows us to keep tuition low and gives us the opportunity to participate in the classroom.
“Teacher Stephanie is such a warm inviting presence in the classroom. she creates an environment where my child thrives at school & has helped me to incorporate learning into our day to day lives”
“Big Bend Cooperative Preschool provides our children with an opportunity to work on readiness skills through play. It takes children at their own interest level and encourages them to learn through their interest. It allows children time to mature rather than forcing them into academic areas before they are ready. If children are allowed time and exposure to work on readiness skills (at the preschool level), they will be successful in kindergarten.” Nancy Nishida, Ephrata School District, Kindergarten Teacher
Parent Testimonials:
“I know some of you have mixed feelings about joining a Parent Co-op. I can understand those feelings exactly, because I felt the same way when I first joined the program…I was really scared at first and I never dreamed that all the information and new ideas were ever going to make sense to me. I have been in the program for three years now, and I honestly say that I am a much happier parent, and a more fulfilled person that I ever thought possible. And I know that I owe most of these feelings to the Parent Co-op.” Michelle Franich, Former Co-op Member
chairmanships
Parents from all classes sign up as a Chairman to fulfill a job responsibility for daily operations of our school. Parents sign up for a chairmanship by volunteering at the beginning of the school year and work together to keep the school running smoothly.
board positions
We encourage all parents to join the board. The board provides a well managed, safe, and cooperative program for parents and children. First year parents are welcome; professional development and training opportunities are available. Board positions include: President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Parent Coordinator, Publicist, and Fundraiser. To join the board, submit your name during the nomination process at the end of the school year, or contact the President during the school year to fill open positions.