FAQ
For FAQ specifically regarding the 2021-2022 school year, please click here.
What is a "Parent Cooperative Preschool"?
A cooperative preschool is one that is run by parents alongside the teachers. Parents work in the classroom, take parent education classes, and do committee work that makes the school operational. See What is Co-op?
What is the philosophy of the school and who designs the curriculum?
Redmond Co-op is a developmentally appropriate, play-based preschool. This means that we believe kids of this age learn best by hands-on experiencing their world, not by forced memorization and seatwork. We provide a wide range of activities that are developmentally correct for these ages (art projects, science experiments, gross motor and small motor toys and activities). Our teachers derive the entire curriculum used during circle time and keep in mind the developmental needs and abilities of the children they are teaching. See Play-Based Learning.
What is the preschool Board of Trustees?
The Board of Trustees is the body of parents and caretakers who manage the operations of the preschool. All positions are voluntary and held by members of the cooperative. See Co-op Board for details.
Where are we located?
We are located in the lower level of the Redmond United Methodist Church near downtown Redmond. We are not affiliated with the church; we rent the facility from the church. See Contact for a map.
What ages do we serve?
We have a 3s class for 3/4 year olds, and a 4s class for 4/5 year olds.
Do you have a cut-off enrollment age?
Yes. Children must be 3 (for the 3s class) or 4 (for the 4s class) by August 31 prior to the school year.
What days do children attend school?
The 3s classes meet Thursday and Friday. The 4s classes meet Monday-Wednesday.
What are the class times?
For both classes, our morning class meets 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM and the afternoon class meets from 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM.
Is there an enrollment fee?
Yes. There is a non-refundable enrollment fee. Please see Class Info for current fees and tuition.
What is the monthly tuition?
See Class Info for current fees and tuition.
What is your tuition and registration policy regarding twins or other multiples?
The enrollment fee covers the entire family. However, each child requires their own tuition.
When is tuition collected and deposited?
See Class Info for current fees and tuition information.
What are the parent's responsibilities/commitments to the school?
Parents are required to work in the classroom one class per week, attend a parent education meeting once a month, participate in fundraisers for the school, serve on either on the Safety/Admin committee or the Board of Trustees, and participate with indoor and outdoor maintenance and upkeep.
What are Parent Education Classes?
These classes held once a month cover topics relevant to parenting, such as child development, teaching empathy, safety, etc. Parents are required to attend a parent meeting every month as part of the enrollment requirements for their child.
Can a non-parent caregiver attend the class if both parents work during class time?
Yes! Your child's daytime caregiver (Au Pair, nanny, grandparent, etc.) may attend the class instead of a parent. Parents are still encouraged to attend parent education meetings and be actively involved with the program. See Parent Participation.
What do you mean by classroom help?
Parents are required to work in the classroom once a week. They will be assigned to oversee activities in one of the activity rooms and manage conflicts between students. See Parent Participation.
What do you mean by weekend cleaning and semi-deep cleaning?
Parents are required to clean the preschool (vacuum, mop floors, clean bathroom, wipe down tables, etc.) one weekend in the school year and participate in one semi-annual deep clean with the rest of the class. See Parent Participation.
Are I allowed to bring younger siblings to class on my work day?
Because our space has many activities that may not be safe for children under 3, siblings can only come to class if they are in a carrier. However, parents can trade watching younger siblings or organize their own sibling care group with other co-op families. Please see "Doing Co-op With Younger Sibs" for more information and ideas for sibling care.
May I observe a class?
Virtual observations are being scheduled. Please e-mail our registrar at registrar@redmondcoop.org to schedule an appointment.