Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Cupertino Co-op Nursery School Co-op Nursery School: Play-Based Early Childhood Education
Established in 1953, Cupertino Co-op Nursery School Co-op Nursery School has been a trusted provider of early childhood education for over seven decades. Our play-based learning approach fosters creativity, social development, and foundational academic skills through structured programs for toddlers to pre-kindergarten children. Accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), we maintain rigorous standards in curriculum design and teacher qualifications. Our unique cooperative model actively involves parents in classroom activities and school governance, creating a strong sense of community.With specialized programs like Big Trees outdoor education and comprehensive parent education initiatives, we provide a holistic learning environment that extends beyond traditional preschool frameworks. Our commitment to inclusivity ensures equal access to educational opportunities regardless of background, while our flexible scheduling and family-centered events strengthen community bonds.
Services
Toddler Program
Preschool Program
Pre-K Program
Big Trees Outdoor Education
Parent Education
Family Events
Community Involvement
Scholarship Programs
Nature-Based Learning
Child Development
Details
- Year established: 1953
Highlights and features
- 70+ years of experience in early childhood education
- NAEYC-accredited play-based learning curriculum
- Unique parent-cooperative model with hands-on involvement
- Diverse, inclusive community environment
- Specialized outdoor education program with nature exploration
Associations and certifications
- NAEYC
Services
Toddler Program
Our Toddler Program provides structured play-based learning for 2-year-olds with twice-weekly classes. Certified teachers guide social development through music, crafts, and outdoor play while parents participate in classroom activities. The curriculum includes science exploration and motor skill development through hands-on projects.
Preschool Program
Three-day weekly Preschool Program focuses on early literacy and math concepts through play-based activities. Children engage in carpentry projects, science experiments, and dramatic play while developing social skills. Parents contribute to classroom instruction and curriculum planning through cooperative participation.
Pre-K Program
Four-day Pre-K Program prepares children for school with small-group academic instruction and weekly field trips. The curriculum emphasizes pre-reading skills, collaborative projects, and 'Star of the Week' recognition. Parents work directly with credentialed teachers during classroom sessions.
Big Trees Outdoor Education
Weekly outdoor classes explore local parks and nature preserves with guided hikes and environmental education. Children develop gross motor skills through climbing and balancing activities while learning about ecosystems. Sessions include nature-based crafts and literature with adult caregiver participation required.
Parent Education
Monthly parent education gatherings cover child development topics with expert speakers. Past sessions addressed positive parenting techniques, nutrition, and kindergarten readiness. Parents also participate in committee work and school governance through elected board positions.
People
Jennie Ivazian
Director/Preschool Teacher
Lead educator with NAEYC-certified expertise in play-based learning, overseeing preschool curriculum development and classroom instruction while guiding parent volunteers.
Kate Williams
Toddler Teacher
Specializes in early childhood social development, creating structured play environments that nurture motor skills and peer interaction for two-year-old students.
Calla Trofatter
Pre-K Teacher
Focuses on kindergarten readiness through small-group academic instruction and monthly field trips that integrate practical learning experiences into the curriculum.
Holly McCullough
Big Trees Teacher
Outdoor education specialist designing nature-based activities that combine environmental learning with physical development through weekly guided nature hikes.
Jackie Fenton
President
Board leader overseeing organizational strategy and policy implementation, ensuring alignment with educational mission while coordinating parent-led governance initiatives.
Questions
What age requirements exist for enrollment?
Children must be 2+ for Toddler Program, 3+ for Preschool, 3.5+ for Pre-K. Big Trees accepts ages 2-8 with adult supervision.
What parent involvement is required?
Parents must work in classrooms weekly, attend monthly education sessions, contribute 15 hours to committees, and participate in maintenance weekends.
Are scholarships available?
Yes, need-based scholarships are available for all programs to ensure accessibility for families requiring financial assistance.
What outdoor learning opportunities exist?
Big Trees program offers weekly nature hikes, environmental education, and outdoor activities in local parks and preserves during 7-week sessions.
How does the cooperative model work?
Parents actively participate in classroom activities, governance through elected board positions, and school maintenance to create shared educational responsibility.
