Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ’s):
Q: How old does my child need to be for preschool?
A: Children need to be 3 or 4 years old by December 31st, following the September they are enrolled to start.
Q: When should I apply for the waitlist?
A: We keep interest lists a year ahead but only waitlist families that have attended an open house and are still waiting for a placement. Please submit a request to visit form from our “apply” page.
Q: Can my child attend full time?
A: Children usually attend two 4 hour sessions per week(9am-1pm). 4 year olds returning for a second year can apply for a slightly longer day (9am-3pm)
Q: What if I can’t participate?
A: All families participate in our cooperative based model in a variety of ways.
Q: How often will I be the classroom helper?
A: Parents take turns helping for a session in theclassroom about once per month alongside the ECE and assistants. We have a very limitednumber of NON classroom spaces that can be applied for.
Q: Is Coop preschool a lot of work?
A:There are time commitments in a Cooperative preschool and we hope that the special opportunity to participate in the classroom with your child during their early years is worth it! Lasting friendships are built in this community working side by side withother families caring for and stewarding the preschool for future generations.
Q: Is there preschool in the summer?
A: No, we follow the same schedule as the school district (SD64) and are closed for Winter and Spring breaks as well.
Q: Can I bring my baby to my helping day?
A: No, only registered children can attend during licensed preschool sessions including during “gradual entry”.
Q: If my child will be absent, who do I notify?
A: It is helpful to let the ECE know if your child will be away on holidays or due to illness. Sometimes the Vice President will inquire about attendance when assisting with a parent helper or staff absence.
Q: Can my child come to preschool with the sniffles?
A: No, young children easily spread virus’s through their play. We ask ill children to remain at home until symptoms have ceased and your child can fully participate in all parts of the preschool program.
Q: Does my child have to be toilet trained for preschool?
A: Yes. We understand many children may still need assistance in the bathroom and have occasional
accidents.
Q: What if I have to miss a meeting?
A: Meeting attendance is a commitment of membership. If you absolutely must miss a meeting please notify the Secretary and make arrangements to read the minutes and make up the parent education as needed.
Q: What do I do if I or my child is sick for my parent helper shift?
A: Contact the Vice president through your What’s App group and see if you can find someone to cover if time permits. If you wake up the morning of feeling ill contact the Vice president as soon as possible.
Q: Is it permissible to bring my pet to the preschool during classroom days or Work Bees?
A: No, unless it’s for a planned show and tell that has been approved by the ECE. Some children maynot have pets at home, which can lead to feelings of fear or discomfort around animals.
Q: Is it possible to rent the preschool facility for birthday celebrations or special events? Yes, the preschool is available for rentals outside of regular preschool hours, provided that you are a current member of the preschool.
A: What if I want to be more involved? You can let the ECE or President know if you want to participate more!