Oneonta Cooperative Nursery School

Oneonta Cooperative Nursery School, established in 1947, stands as the oldest parent-participatory preschool in South Pasadena. For over seven decades, we have served our community by providing a nurturing and enriching environment for young learners. As a non-profit organization, we are deeply rooted in the values of collaboration and community. Our success is fueled by the passionate involvement of parents who actively contribute to the daily operations of our school.

Our Philosophy: Embracing The OCNS Way

At Oneonta, we wholeheartedly embrace the philosophy known as "The OCNS Way." This approach centers around the inherent capabilities of children to create their own educational experiences. We encourage exploration, celebrate messy moments, and foster a space where children learn and grow at their own pace. The OCNS Way is playful and creative, embracing the joys of finger painting, building sandcastles, and engaging in imaginative play.

We believe that children are naturally inquisitive and eager to learn about the world around them. Our curriculum is play-based and emergent, allowing children to follow their interests and passions. Through hands-on experiences, social interaction, and guided exploration, they develop essential skills, build confidence, and cultivate a lifelong love of learning.

At the heart of The OCNS Way is a profound respect for the individual. We recognize that every child is unique, with their own strengths, talents, and learning styles. Our teachers work closely with children to provide individualized support and nurture their growth in all areas.

Furthermore, we aim to cultivate thoughtful and engaged members of the community. Emphasizing social-emotional learning, we guide children to develop empathy, kindness, respect for diversity, and a sense of justice. Children learn to collaborate, negotiate, and resolve conflicts peacefully, preparing them to be compassionate and responsible citizens.

The Power of Collaboration: The Cooperative Model

Oneonta Cooperative Nursery School is built upon a foundation of shared responsibility and collective effort. Our cooperative model empowers parents to actively participate in their child's education and contribute to the vibrant community of our school.

Each family holds a committee aide position, ensuring everyone plays a vital role in shaping the school experience. Parents work alongside our dedicated teaching staff in classrooms, ensuring a close partnership between home and school.

Our Board of Directors, comprised of parents and caregivers, provides leadership and guidance to ensure the continued success and growth of Oneonta. Through ongoing communication, collaboration, and shared decision-making, we strive to create a truly inclusive and nurturing environment for all.

Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

At Oneonta Cooperative Nursery School, we are deeply committed to creating a space that embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion. We believe that every child, regardless of their background, identity, or abilities, deserves to feel valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential.

We challenge ourselves to continuously learn, grow, and become more inclusive. We strive to ensure that our classroom environment reflects the diversity of our world, and we celebrate the unique perspectives and experiences that each child brings to our community. Our anti-bias curriculum equips children with the knowledge and skills to understand and appreciate different cultures, backgrounds, and ways of life.

We are dedicated to fostering a sense of belonging for all members of our school community, where every child feels seen, heard, and valued.

Our Programs

We offer a range of programs designed to meet the needs of young learners at each developmental stage. Our Greenhouse Seedlings class, featuring a 1:3 teacher-pupil ratio, provides a nurturing environment for our youngest explorers. In other classes, we maintain a 1:4 teacher-pupil ratio, ensuring personalized attention and support.

Our classrooms are thoughtfully designed to encourage creativity, exploration, and learning through play. Outdoor spaces, including a bike yard and play yard, provide opportunities for gross motor development, physical activity, and outdoor exploration.

More Than Just a Preschool: Building Community

Oneonta Cooperative Nursery School is more than just a place to learn. It is a vibrant and welcoming community where families connect, grow, and support each other. We believe that strong community bonds are essential for the well-being of children and families. We offer opportunities for parents to connect with each other through volunteer activities, parent education workshops, and social events.