​​Bethel Cooperative 

Preschool

What is a cooperative preschool?

A cooperative preschool is a parent/child participation program. Parents enroll in a parent education program at Bates Technical College, and enroll their child in the cooperative preschool of their choice. While parents are enrolled in the program, they earn college credit in a continuing education program.

(You do not have to be a college student to enroll your child).

Bates-trained cooperative preschool teachers plan the curriculum. The parents’ job is to help conduct the non-profit business of the preschool and ‘work’ in the classroom on a rotation or schedule.

Benefits of cooperative preschools

Families and children grow in a positive direction

Children learn and explore in an open, safe and supportive environment

Build supportive and loving friendships

Develop positive communication skills

Share experiences of parenting with others

Learn about health and safety

Develop positive self esteem

Be positive and supportive individuals in the community