A neighborhood cooperative since 1966.

University Parents Nursery School is a parent-participation preschool where children learn through play and families work alongside teachers as part of the school community.

UPNS history timeline from 1966 to present
Our History

Started by UCLA families, now shared with the wider neighborhood.

UPNS began in 1966, when parents living in UCLA Family Student Housing came together to create a nursery school they could help shape and run. The school grew over the years and moved to its current Sepulveda Boulevard location in 1996.

UPNS continues to serve UCLA students, staff, and faculty, and also welcomes families without a UCLA affiliation from across Los Angeles. The school became accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children in 1998.

Our Philosophy

Play-based learning for the whole child.

The University Parents Nursery School is founded on the belief that the preschool years are critical for a child’s growth. We believe preschool should give children time to play, explore, create, move, build relationships, allowing them to learn at their own natural pace.

Social Self

learning to make friends, share ideas, and care about others

Emotional Self

recognizing feelings and growing more confident expressing them

Physical Self

building coordination and body confidence through active, hands-on play

Creative Self

using art, music, stories, and pretend play to bring ideas to life

Cognitive Self

asking questions, testing ideas, and figuring things out through play

Funded by Parent Fundraising

Weekly Enrichment Classes

Throughout the year, children take part in music, dance, soccer, Taekwondo classes led by visiting instructors. UPNS fundraising helps cover the cost of these classes so they can be available for every child.

Children engaged in singing and instruments during music class at UPNS

Music and rhythm

Children discover the joy and love of music and rhythm through culturally rich songs and harmonious singing, sparking creativity and fostering meaningful connections.

Children participating in creative movement and dance class at UPNS

Dancing & movement

Children move to the sounds of music, building coordination, balance, creativity, and confidence.

Children playing soccer and active games on the UPNS playground

Soccer & active play

Our children have a blast learning soccer, developing teamwork, coordination, and confidence while having fun on the field!

Children participating in Taekwondo class at UPNS

Taekwondo & Focus

Our children enjoy learning Taekwondo, building strength, discipline, respect, and confidence while having a great time mastering cool moves!

Our Staff

Meeting our dedicated teaching staff & Administration

The nursery school is cared for by a team of dedicated professionals who support and nurture UPNS families.

Portrait of UPNS teacher Lorraine Smith-Jones in the classroom environment

Lorraine Smith-Jones

School Director

Portrait of UPNS teacher Ana Flores in the classroom environment

Ana Flores

Office Administrator

Portrait of UPNS teacher Veronica Martell in the classroom environment

Veronica Martell

Kitten Room Teacher

Portrait of UPNS teacher Nahomi Romero in the classroom environment

Nahomi Romero

Kitten Room Teacher

Portrait of UPNS teacher Lin Han in the classroom environment

Lin Han

Kitten Room Teacher

Portrait of UPNS teacher Annika Peistrup in the classroom environment

Annika Peistrup

Kitten Room Teacher

Portrait of UPNS teacher Brigitte Peistrup in the classroom environment

Brigitte Peistrup

Kangaroo Room Teacher

Portrait of UPNS teacher Maria Maldonado in the classroom environment

Maria Maldonado

Kangaroo Room Teacher

Portrait of UPNS teacher Kobe Kubes in the classroom environment

Kobe Kubes

Kangaroo Room Teacher

Portrait of UPNS teacher Sulamithe Ello in the classroom environment

Sulamithe Ello

Dolphin Room Teacher

Portrait of UPNS teacher Yadira Montes in the classroom environment

Yadira Montes

Dolphin Room Teacher

Roles of School Staff

The staff of the school consists of a Director, Assistant Director/Head Teacher, Teachers, Teaching Assistants, and the Office Administrator. The Director is the professional head of the school, responsible for all matters concerning the children and daily operation.

The Assistant Director, Teachers, and Teaching Assistants have challenging jobs: planning the daily program for children and helping parents gain new insights into early childhood. The Office Administrator is responsible for smooth operations and works closely with the Director.

Our staff furthers member education through classroom observation, participation, and guest speakers at Parent Education Meetings. The Director provides ongoing parent orientation throughout the school year.

Board of Directors

Each year the membership elects officers to serve as the Board of Directors. As the overall policy-making body, the Board administers school affairs consistent with our Articles of Incorporation and Constitution.

Board Members act not as individuals, but as representatives of the membership at large. Each member considers decisions in terms of what is good for the whole group and takes a long view of the future of UPNS.

Open General Meetings: General Meetings are open to all school members, and each family’s vote carries equal weight.

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