What is the cooperative?
Our cooperative, Peopleplace, is an organization that thrives through the collective forces of families, staff and the community. Together we ensure that everything runs smoothly, from day to day operations, to long range planning, to facility upkeep and financial stability. The expectation is that a family enrolls their child in this school, not only because it is a wonderful early childhood program, but also to be an active part of their child’s first school experience.
What are my responsibilities for the cooperative?
A family’s responsibility is to participate in the way that works best for them with some basic expectations. We expect each family to participate in two parent workdays (usually a weekend morning dedicated to facility maintenance held fall, winter and spring), assist with all fundraising events, help in the classroom and provide a morning snack for the group once a month. Choose a task such as laundry, supply shopping, making playdough, and serve on a either the Building and Grounds or the Fundraising committee. There are MANY ways to participate at Peopleplace. If you have a special skill, we want to know!
What are the benefits of a cooperative?
When you participate in the cooperative you:
Establish the importance of education and develop a network of helpful connections with early childhood professionals, other parents, and children.
Learn to be an advocate for your child now and in the future.
Feel less anxious about school and informed of what’s going on. You’re more connected.
Know what your child is learning and who their friends are. With this information, you can ask questions relevant to your child’s day and continue the learning at home. Getting together outside of school with those friends creates long-lasting relationships (for children AND parents!)
Ensure your child is on track developmentally and creates an opportunity to establish a support network if seeking help from other professionals
Model for your children the reward of giving back to the greater good and the value of civic responsibility.
Create a sense of ownership and pride in the school. After spending time raking leaves at a workday, providing snack for the classroom, or helping at a fundraising event, you feel as if the school in successful because of YOU (which is true!)
Have fun!
Can family members or close friends volunteer in class?
Yes, family members, or family friends may volunteer in the classroom. It is especially rewarding to have grandparents involved in the Peopleplace community.
How much do I have to volunteer?
In the past, a point system was in place to ensure equity among the Peopleplace families’ volunteer hours. While the point system helped families know how many hours they needed to volunteer, it did not distinguish or qualify the many ways families contribute to the school. Currently, families are asked to complete a “commitment form” (found in Tuition and Forms). The form is accompanied by a “Cooperative Handbook” (see Parent Portal) and a one-page explanation of what the expectations are. Families are asked to participate in a variety of ways from working in the classroom, providing snack for their child’s class about once a month, to helping with workdays and fundraising events. All of these “jobs” foster community and help develop a sense of ownership in the school. There is no set number of hours that a family must volunteer, but everyone must commit to helping throughout the school year.