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Anyone's child in a co-op preschool?

Mrs.HizzoMrs.Hizzo member
in Pre-School and Daycare

Just curious, how much are you expected to help out? I'm starting to think I've gotten more than I bargained for. Parents are expected to work one day a month in the classroom (I knew this), but also to help with setting up classrooms, helping with the annual fundraiser by working/donating at least three items for the auction, working book fairs, open houses, class picnics, and the list goes on.

I really don't mind doing any of this when I stop to think that this is how they keep tuition costs down for parents. It's just that I was under the impression that my obligations didn't extend beyond helping in the classroom, and now I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed. Is this all pretty standard?

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Re: Anyone's child in a co-op preschool?

  • angluvsammonangluvsammon
    We will be starting our third year of Co-op this year. It is quite a bit of work, but the community and education has been fantastic. I think the amount of time you are describing is comparable. This year we go to class two days a week and I have to be in the classroom one day a week!  We have a parent meeting every month, have to take three parent education classes a quarter (our co-op is through the local community college,) help with fundraising (this varies on the 'grade' and teacher), two family parties a year, and help clean and organize the classroom twice a year. I am sure there are a few things I am forgetting but you get the idea. Now that I type it out, it seems like a lot, but really spread out over the year it isn't too bad.
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  • Heather&ScottHeather&Scott

    What you're describing sounds pretty typical for co-op preschools in our area.  It was one of the reasons I decided not to go with one, and opted instead for a private preschool.  I work part-time and really couldn't commit to the hours they required.

    With that said, my sister sent both of her kids to a co-op preschool and had a really positive experience.  She was strictly a SAHM, though, and the preschool was only 3 minutes from her house.  

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  • HawaiiBrideGrmHawaiiBrideGrm
    We are starting our daughter (3 y.o.) in one next month. I kinda feel the same as you, since we both work full-time. I have Mondays off so that will be my one day per month of volunteering (which I think will be fun to go to school with DD). However, I'm already expecting a lot of donated time/donated goods. Nothing is free, right?
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