preschool cooperatives 101
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Preschool Cooperatives 101
Leta MachParent Cooperative
Preschools International
NCBA webinar presented on August 20, 2009
First parent cooperative preschool Founded 1916University of ChicagoChild care while mothers helped with war effortsEducation for both children & parents
Sector Overview
More than 1000 preschool co-ops and child care centers in the U.S.Since 1916 spread around the worldTraditionally a Parent Model preschoolOther models/adaptations since 1916
Sector Overview
Employee ModelIn or near the worksite Benefits both employer & employeeSenate Employees Child Care CenterNIH PreschoolGEO Kids
Sector Overview
Consortium ModelSeveral companies form the co-op Benefits both employer & employeeKids in the Kountry
Sector Overview
Worker Cooperative ModelChildspace Cooperative Development Philadelphia Benefits both employee & parentHealth care benefits for employeesLower turnover
Sector Overview
Members own the businessElect a Board of DirectorsBoard hires professional staff, the preschool directorDirector may hire additional staffMembers often help in the classroom
Structure
Most organized as 501c3 non-profitsTypical fees:
Non-refundable application feeEnrollment/registration feeMonthly tuition and late fees – may require last month’s tuition at beginning of the year
Non-co-oping option fee
Structure
University of Wisconsin Center for Cooperatives statistics$420M in revenue$141M in wages paid6,000 jobs
Economic Impact
Provides high-quality child careEmphasizes parent involvementPrepared and sensitive teachers Child-centered curriculum
Sweat equity helps lower costs Members gain leadership and business skills and often become leaders in their communities
Sector Benefits
Parent Education is a key attributeFormal regular education programsParent education material & librariesInformal education while assisting and observing in the classroom
Offers a co-op family for community connection & support
Special Programs
The two-income working family makes co-oping difficult. Options:
Use other family members or babysitters in the classroomContribute in other ways: committee service or weekend/evening projectsExtra fees
Public & private sector competitionFinding and keeping a location
Challenges
Strengths
Variety & DiversityEach school is organized to meet the needs of its membersEducational philosophy is determined by members with elected Board and professional staff
Most based on learning through play and developmentally appropriate practices
Cross Sector Opportunity
Consider a cooperative child care center for employeesProvide flexible hours for employees to help them work in the classroomMarket the cooperative preschools in your neighborhoodWhen appropriate, offer space in your facilities for a co-op preschool
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