Families Together Cooperative Nursery School, Chicago

Families Together Cooperative Nursery School (FTCNS) provides a play-based educational environment in which children thrive and parents are integral to the life of the school. At our core is a commitment to diversity and equity, genuine collaboration between educators, families and children, and a creative and flexible approach to supporting each child’s cognitive, social and emotional growth. FTCNS is highly regarded as a unique educational program recognized for excellence in: Providing a joyful early school experience for young children in a welcoming facility with a nearby playground and large outdoor space. Providing an affordable, high‐quality education through sliding scale tuition, financial aid, and school-wide fundraising efforts. Operating as a well-run cooperative in which a close-knit, diverse community of engaged parents work collaboratively to ensure smooth daily operations by actively participating in school governance, volunteering in the classroom, and contributing to school fundraising efforts. Offering young children a play‐based experience based on an emergent curriculum developed in response to the children’s needs and interests. Demonstrating a deep commitment to diversity and equity through intentional educational practices and hiring, admissions, and financial policies that welcome families from a variety of socioeconomic, ethnic, cultural, religious, and family backgrounds. Supporting parents of young children by providing informative, engaging parent education activities and materials. Integrating environmentally sustainable practices and healthy food options into daily school activities and operations. Promoting professional growth for the school’s staff by providing funds that support their individual and group development plans.