Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Play-Based Preschool Programs in Whitefish Bay, WI
Community Preschool has been nurturing young minds through play-based learning since 1971. Our program emphasizes social skills, independence, and cooperation while fostering imagination and curiosity. As a parent-cooperative preschool, we integrate families into the educational experience, offering opportunities for parental involvement through classroom participation and committee work. Our experienced educators design thematic units that engage children in science, art, music, and literacy through hands-on exploration.With flexible scheduling options and small class sizes, we provide a supportive environment where both children and parents grow together. Our curriculum incorporates daily music activities, outdoor play, and structured learning centers that adapt to children's developmental needs. Located within Christ Church in Whitefish Bay, we've built a close-knit community where families form lasting connections while supporting their children's early education.
Services
Toddler Classes
Preschool Programs
Music Education
Parent Co-Op
Special Events
Details
- Year established: 1971
Highlights and features
- We offer a proven play-based curriculum that develops foundational academic and social skills
- Our parent-cooperative model creates unique family engagement opportunities
- Experienced educators with specialized early childhood training lead all classes
- Flexible scheduling options include morning and afternoon sessions
- Monthly music classes with professional instructors enhance learning experiences
What people say
Great balance of play
Amazing teachers
Lifelong friends
Supportive program
Enriching experience
Services
Toddler Classes
Our toddler program nurtures foundational skills through play-based activities. Children engage in art, music, and motor development exercises while building social connections. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention from experienced educators. The program prepares toddlers for future preschool experiences while maintaining a flexible, exploratory environment.
Preschool Programs
Structured preschool classes focus on academic readiness and social growth. Thematic units integrate science, literacy, and creative arts. Children participate in music education and outdoor play while developing independence. The curriculum balances structured learning with imaginative exploration in a supportive classroom community.
Music Education
Monthly music classes with professional instructors enhance rhythm and pitch development. Sessions align with classroom themes to reinforce learning through creative expression. Daily musical activities include singing, instrument play, and movement exercises that support overall cognitive development.
Parent Co-Op
Families actively participate in classroom activities and school governance. Parents assist in classrooms during their child's 'Special Person' days and contribute to committees managing school operations. This cooperative model fosters strong community connections and shared educational responsibility.
Special Events
Regular family events celebrate learning milestones and build community bonds. Activities include seasonal celebrations, auctions, and family participation days that showcase classroom achievements while strengthening social connections among families.
People
Beth Durant
Preschool Director
BA in History from Carleton College with 144 graduate credits in Early Childhood Education. 30+ years teaching experience including 28 years at CPS. Led school since 1994.
Elsie Carroll
T/W/TH Teacher
BA in Psychology from Marquette University with 72 graduate credits in Education Psychology. Teaching at CPS since 1997 with 23 years of classroom experience.
Cathy Smith
M/W/F Teacher
BS in Elementary Education from UW-Milwaukee with 20+ graduate credits. Holds Wisconsin teaching license. 9 years prior teaching experience before joining CPS in 2011.
Sarah Babcock
T/TH Teacher
BS in Early Childhood Education from Ball State University. Former corporate executive with 14 years S&P 500 experience. CPS board member since 2019.
Claire Nelson
T/TH Teacher
UW-Milwaukee graduate with Elementary Education degree. 20+ years working with children including 7 years classroom teaching and Milwaukee Zoo education experience.
Questions
What age requirements do you have for enrollment?
Toddler classes require children to be 2 by September 1st. Preschool classes require children to be 2 years, 9 months by September 1st.
Do you offer part-time preschool options?
Yes, we offer 2-day and 3-day preschool options with both morning and afternoon sessions available.
Is parental involvement required?
Yes, as a parent-cooperative preschool, families participate through classroom assistance and committee work.
What curriculum do you use?
Our play-based curriculum includes thematic units, music classes, science experiments, and structured learning centers.
How does the application process work?
Applications are accepted starting January 14th for returning families and January 21st for new families with a $50 application fee.
