Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Cooperative Preschool in Arlington, VA
Arlington Unitarian Cooperative Preschool Cooperative Preschool (AUCP) has been a leader in early childhood education since 1969, offering a play-based curriculum designed to nurture social, intellectual, and physical development. Our program emphasizes parent involvement, with families actively participating in classroom activities and school operations. We prioritize outdoor learning through our unique Outdoor Classroom Program at Long Branch, fostering creativity and connection with nature. Accredited by Arlington County and the Commonwealth of Virginia, we serve children from infants to pre-kindergarten, maintaining a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.Our staff combines decades of experience with ongoing professional development to create a supportive, child-centered environment. We offer flexible class schedules, financial aid, and summer camp programs to meet diverse family needs. Our community-driven approach strengthens relationships between educators, parents, and children, ensuring a holistic educational experience. With over 50 years of service, we continue to evolve while staying rooted in our mission to celebrate individuality and foster lifelong learning.
Services
Preschool Classes
Summer Camp
Outdoor Classroom
Financial Aid
Community Outreach
Details
- Year established: 1969
Highlights and features
- Over 50 years of experience in play-based early childhood education
- Unique Outdoor Classroom Program fostering nature exploration
- Parent involvement strengthens educational and community outcomes
- Financial aid available to ensure accessibility for all families
- Licensed by Arlington County and the Commonwealth of Virginia
Associations and certifications
- Arlington County
- Commonwealth of Virginia
What people say
Nurturing environment
Excellent outdoor program
Strong community
Experienced teachers
Child-centered approach
Services
Preschool Classes
Our play-based preschool classes serve children from infants to pre-kindergarten. With age-specific programs, we focus on social, cognitive, and physical development through hands-on learning. Parents participate in classroom activities and school operations, creating a collaborative educational environment.
Outdoor Classroom
The Outdoor Classroom Program immerses children in nature exploration at Long Branch. Weekly outdoor sessions develop gross motor skills, creativity, and environmental awareness. Activities include unstructured play, seasonal observation, and nature-based learning across all weather conditions.
Summer Camp
Our summer camp offers half-day and full-day options for children aged 2-5. The curriculum includes art, music, nature exploration, and social skill development. Outdoor adventures and hands-on activities encourage independence while maintaining our commitment to play-based learning.
Financial Aid
Need-based financial aid covers up to 50% of core class tuition. The program supports both new and returning families, ensuring accessibility regardless of financial circumstances. Applications require tax documentation and must be submitted by the annual deadline.
Community Outreach
Community initiatives include food drives, refugee support, and park beautification projects. These programs teach social responsibility while addressing local needs. Families participate in service activities that strengthen community connections and values.
People
Diann Vaughan
Program Director
Diann Vaughan has served as Program Director since 2020. With a Master's in Counseling from Argosy University, she joined AUCP in 2005 as a parent and became Assistant Director in 2011. Her leadership emphasizes community collaboration and child-centered education.
Kevan Miller
Director of Curriculum & Staff Development
Kevan Miller leads curriculum development with 25+ years of early childhood experience. Holding a Master's in Early Childhood Education from George Mason University, she joined AUCP as a parent in 2006 and has taught since 2010. Her approach focuses on curiosity-driven learning.
Anna Bowman
Panda Teacher
Anna Bowman has taught Panda Class since 2007. With a BS in Early Childhood Education from Buffalo State College, she brings 12 years of public school experience. Her teaching philosophy combines structured learning with natural curiosity development.
Stephanie Brown
Wallaby & Owl Teacher
Stephanie Brown teaches Wallaby & Owl Class with expertise in social foundations of education. A University of Florida graduate, she transitioned from public school teaching to AUCP's cooperative model, valuing its family-centered approach to early education.
JJ Gardiner
Kangaroo Teacher
JJ Gardiner holds a Master's in Speech-Language Pathology from Gallaudet University. Teaching since 2011, she combines special education expertise with outdoor learning leadership. As Outdoor Classroom Lead, she develops nature-based curriculum for young children.
Questions
What age groups does AUCP serve?
We serve children from infants through pre-kindergarten, with specific classes organized by age from 1-year-olds to 4-year-olds.
Is parent participation required?
Yes, parents co-op in classrooms, serve on committees, and maintain facilities as integral partners in our cooperative educational model.
What is the Outdoor Classroom Program?
Our Outdoor Classroom Program takes 3- and 4-year-olds weekly to Long Branch for nature-based learning in all weather conditions.
Does AUCP offer financial aid?
Yes, we provide need-based financial aid covering up to 50% of core class tuition through our formal assistance program.
Are there summer programs available?
Our summer camp offers half-day and full-day options with nature exploration, art, and social skill development for ages 2-5.
How does AUCP support community engagement?
We organize food drives, refugee support, and park beautification projects that teach social responsibility while addressing local needs.
