Bell’s Corners Cooperative Nursery School celebrated its 45th anniversary this past June. Over the years we have seen a lot of change but one thing that hasn’t changed is the need to build relationships. As teachers, we strive to build strong and positive relationships with the children in our classes. We have always had strong ties with our families because we are a cooperative. Today we are focused not only on providing a child centered approach, but a family centered approach to early childhood education.

We believe it is important for everyone to feel welcome at our school and this includes our parents. Each year at our parent orientation evening, parents are invited to ask any questions they might have and they also meet their child’s teachers. On the first day of classes, parents are invited for a private intake interview where they can share any concerns and individual wishes about their child. The cooperative model gives our families a special opportunity to be involved in their little ones first steps on their educational journey. Our cooperative allows plenty of opportunity for parent feedback which is helpful to the teaching team in adjusting the program and setting goals to meet the needs of the children and our members. Our volunteer parent board spends a great deal of time creating and promoting fun activities for our school membership, which includes a spring carnival, family fun night and a silent auction evening. A sense of community amongst our families is strengthened through family events and fundraisers.

Positive family relationships mean a successful school and most importantly an amazing introduction to education for our little students. Children benefit because of the welcoming and warm, stimulating and inclusive environment. Positive relationships means that they want to come back and share their experience with others, allowing us to continue to provide an enriching nursery school experience year after year.

Heidi Piper Ward, RECE
Bells Corners Cooperative Nursery School