Sharing in your child’s school world.

Joining a co-op means giving real time and energy to your child’s school. Parents work alongside teachers, help the school run, get to know other families, and see more of their child’s everyday school life.

UPNS children and families celebrating a school birthday and community gathering
Celebrating birthdays, milestones, and community together
The Co-op Difference

What families get from being part of a co-op

Families do not join UPNS only for lower tuition. They join because they want to be part of their child’s first school community. You see the classroom firsthand, get to know teachers and other parents, and learn practical ways to guide young children that can also help at home.

Member Responsibilities

What parent participation looks like

Here is what every family agrees to contribute when joining UPNS.

Classroom Workday

Once a month from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM, a parent helps in their child’s classroom by joining children in play, assisting with snacks and lunch, and supporting the daily schedule under the teacher’s guidance.

Parent Education & General Meetings

One adult from each family attends regular evening membership meetings to stay connected with school updates, participate in important community decisions, and hear from guest speakers on child development.

School Cleaning OR Committee Role

Each family helps care for our campus during one Saturday morning cleaning session per quarter (8:00 AM–10:00 AM), or serves on a school committee such as Room Parent or Event Coordinator instead.

Community Fundraising Support

Families participate in annual community fundraisers and our spring Family Fun Day, which directly fund our weekly music, dance, soccer, and Taekwondo enrichment classes while helping keep tuition accessible.

Co-op Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

A few things families often ask before joining.

Can grandparents or caregivers fulfill my monthly classroom workday?

Classroom co-op workdays are designed for parents or legal guardians so that families build direct relationships with teachers and the classroom community. Please consult the Director regarding special family circumstances.

What happens if my child wants all my attention on my workday?

This is very common, especially at first. Teachers will help you comfort your child while gradually joining the rest of the classroom work.

Do I need prior teaching experience to co-op?

No. You are there to assist the teacher, not lead the class. Teachers explain what they need each morning, and parents learn through experience.