Fort Collins Preschool (FCPS), established in 1952, is a cooperative early childhood program perfect for parents who want to be involved in their kiddos’ first school experience. At FCPS, parents are an integral part of learning who help out in the classrooms, sit on the board and assist with the school’s day-to-day operations. Parents of “graduates” rave about the school’s tight-knit and supportive parent community, the nurturing teachers and the experiential,  play-based curriculum that has their kids begging to go to school.

Parent participation allows FCPS to operate on a shoestring budget — and to offer much lower tuition rates than non-coop preschools. Monthly fees range from $95 to $140, depending on the child’s age and number of days attended each week. Programs are available for three-year-olds (9 a.m to noon) and four-year-olds (9 a.m. to noon, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.). Classes meet three to four times a week. Programs include:

* Three-year-olds. Meets three times a week from 9 am to 11:30 am. Tuition: $95.
* Four-year-olds (mornings). Meets three times a week from 9 am to noon. Tuition: $120.
* Four-year-olds (afternoons). Meets four times a week from 1 pm to 4 pm. Tuition: $140.

By enrolling in a cooperative preschool, parents commit to certain duties, including:

* Serving on at least one school committee
* Attending two mandatory board meetings each year
* Bringing snack 4-5 times a year
* Help in the classroom or around the school approximately twice a month.

In return, parents get the joy of watching their children grow socially, physically, academically and emotionally throughout the school year. They also gain a deeper understanding of child development.

Fort Collins preschool also holds several celebrations each year, including a Springfest, book fair and parade.

For more information, contact:

Fort Collins Preschool
1200 S. Taft Hill Road
Fort Collins CO, 80521
970.221.1345