Parent Participation

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Hinsdale Community Preschool was founded and is operated as a parent cooperative. Being part of a parent cooperative can be one of the most fulfilling experiences of your life as a parent. In a parent cooperative, parents benefit from being able to be an active part in the classroom, allowing parents to gain first hand knowledge of their child’s learning style and witness how she/he reacts in a social environment. In addition, parents can initiate a strong, positive connection between home and school, which is vital in the years to come. Parents can also enter into a family social network, meeting and working with other parents for the betterment of the school, which is enjoyable and rewarding for both parent and child.

It does take time and involvement to reap the full benefits of a parent cooperative, but the time is worthwhile as we are able to build a community of parents and staff working together for the child. Individual time requirements vary but the following descriptions outline the required expectations of parents as well as additional opportunities to be involved in the school.

All parents are required to participate in the following:

Parent Participation in Class

Every day a parent in the 3 and 4 year old program has the opportunity to spend the day with their child in the classroom (without siblings). The children enjoy spending time with their parents and introducing them to their friends and favorite activities. Parents are also able to see their child in action, watching how their child interacts in a social environment and how and what they are learning in class. Parents rotate days, with each family being assigned approximately 5-7 times a year (depending on the class size). When parents are the helper in the class, they are also responsible for providing the snack (See our Snack Guidelines page for guidelines).

Work Party

In order to keep the classrooms clean and materials sanitized, parents are required to participate in one of three scheduled work parties throughout the year. Parents work for a two hour shift on a designated Saturday to clean the rooms, sanitize materials, handle minor repairs, and spruce up our facility. It is a wonderful opportunity to meet other parents and experience a great sense of accomplishment. This is also an excellent opportunities for many dads to be involved with the program, who may other wise be unable.

Fundraising

In order to provide additional funds for classroom materials, Hinsdale Community Preschool hosts several fundraising events throughout the year. Parents may also choose to support other fundraising efforts by purchasing Scholastic Books (a great way to purchase inexpensive books for your child and help teachers get educational materials) or other items (a silent auction was held last year).

Parent Conferences

This is a time for parents to meet with their child’s teachers and discuss their child’s progress during the first half of the year. It is also a time where parents can share any concerns, successes, ideas, or thoughts about their child and work with the teacher to set goals for the rest of the year. While formal conferences are held in February, the teachers are available to speak with you about your child at any time during the year.

Additional opportunities for parents to be involved in the program:

Board of Directors

Become a member of the board of directors, serving as the president, vice-president, treasurer, secretary, registrar, room parent, newsletter publisher, health and safety coordinator, ways & means, building & grounds, publicity, scholarship chair, corresponding secretary, web-site coordinator, or parent education and hospitality. Click on the link for a complete listing and descriptions of board positions.

Hospitality Committee

Participate in our hospitality committee, which helps with specific projects or activities and works to bring food to families with newborns.

Individual Skills or Professions

Utilize your individual skills for specific projects on an as needed basis (including repairs, assisting with technology support, or other professional services). We also encourage parents to share their area of expertise or family’s culture with your child’s class (ex: dentists talking about healthy teeth).