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