Cornerstone Cooperative Preschool

Cornerstone Cooperative Preschool: Empowering Families Through Education

Cornerstone Cooperative Preschool (CCP) is a small cooperative school located in Denton, Texas. Our motto, "Where the Parents Make the Difference," encapsulates the essence of our unique approach. CCP was established in 1971, originally known as Little Creek Preschool, by a group of dedicated parents who envisioned a quality preschool education for their children at an affordable cost, during a time when preschools were not as widespread.

Our History and Mission

Founded in an era when preschool options were scarce, Cornerstone Cooperative Preschool emerged from the determination of parents seeking the best for their children. These pioneering parents wanted a nurturing, stimulating environment that would lay a strong educational foundation without the prohibitive costs often associated with quality early childhood education. Their vision was to create a place where children could thrive through play-based learning, guided by the interests and developmental stages of each child.

Unique Cooperative Model

What sets CCP apart is our cooperative nature, which places parents at the heart of the school’s operations. We are a play-based, child-led preschool where the curriculum is designed to be flexible and responsive to the needs and curiosities of the children. Parent volunteers are integral to the functioning of CCP, undertaking the majority of business administrative tasks, including budgeting, marketing, fundraising, maintenance, and membership, through their roles on the Executive Board. This high level of parental involvement ensures that our school remains community-oriented and responsive to the needs of our families.

Parents are also encouraged to volunteer in the classrooms, especially in the two older groups, serving as teacher’s helpers 1-2 times per month. This arrangement provides invaluable physical assistance to the teachers while allowing parents to contribute their unique skills, interests, and talents to the classroom environment. Whether it’s a parent with a knack for storytelling, a talent for music, or a background in science, these contributions enrich the learning experience for all children. This cooperative model is a rarity in North Texas, attracting families from Denton, Aubrey, Argyle, Corinth, Lewisville, and Lake Dallas.

Educational Philosophy

Our educational philosophy is rooted in the belief that early childhood is a critical period for development. Research continually underscores that these formative years set the stage for a child's future happiness, well-being, and overall success. The United Nations even recognizes play as a fundamental human right for children. At CCP, we embrace this philosophy by fostering a play-based, child-led approach that allows children to explore, discover, and learn at their own pace.

Having parents deeply involved in their child's education offers significant advantages. It creates a robust support system for the children and enhances the educational experience by integrating diverse perspectives and skills. However, the benefits extend beyond the children; parents also gain immensely from this involvement. Early childhood is not only formative for the child but also crucial for parents as they navigate the early stages of their parenting journey. Being part of a supportive, tight-knit community helps parents feel more confident and capable, enabling them to provide the best possible upbringing for their children.

Holistic Approach to Family Well-being

At CCP, we take a holistic approach to family well-being. By nurturing children and fostering a cooperative environment, we support the entire family unit. Parents benefit from being part of a diverse, positive cultural environment, which helps them succeed in their parenting roles. This comprehensive approach ensures that both children and parents are supported, creating a thriving community where everyone can grow and flourish.