Our Parents
A Community That Works Together
Our school operates much like a family; we all have jobs to do, and we work to make things better for everyone. That’s the essence of a cooperative preschool: cooperation.
Parents Play an Active Role
While the school employs two professional teachers who develop the curriculum and guide classroom learning, parents actually run the co-op.
At ICP, families:
Serve on the Board of Directors
Attend monthly Parent Education meetings
Hold member jobs (washing art smocks, caring for the school pet, etc.)
Support fundraising events
Rotate helping in the classroom
The Gift of Community
The #1 thing parents tell us in our semi-annual surveys:
The friendships.
Families love the chance to meet other parents with children the same age and form connections that last far beyond preschool.
Support for Parents, Too
ICP isn’t just for children — it’s a resource for parents. Our teacher, parent educator, and community share ideas, tips, and guidance on parenting challenges. Through in-person conversations, email updates, and shared resources, families receive ongoing support.
Monthly Parent Education
Each month, families participate in a Parent Education session led by a trained instructor. Topics include:
Stress management
Sibling relationships
Developmental differences
Positive discipline
And more
The best part?
Parents can apply what they learn during their classroom helping days.
A Program for Parents, Too
Our parent program rivals that of our children:
engaging, educational, community-building, and fun.
It strengthens relationships not only between parents and children, but between families.
Flexible Participation That Fits Your Family
ICP strives to be inclusive of all families and schedules. Classroom helping expectations vary by age group:
Penguins & Sea Otters: 1 parent helping day per week
Dolphins & Orcas: 2–3 helping days per month
Preschool Option (older classes): 1 helping day per month
Even with limited time, parents see how quickly children grow — and how a dozen kids (and a dozen parents) become a close, lasting community.