Bright Prospects Cooperative Preschool (BPCP), founded in 1948, is one of the oldest continuously running cooperative preschools in the nation. Our passionate teachers and parents strive to ensure that each child has a positive introduction to the classroom environment. We nurture the natural ability of children to be thoughtful, motivated, and self-reliant individuals.

Our Educational Philosophy

Learning through play is our core mission at Bright Prospects. Unstructured outdoor time offers one of the best opportunities for social interaction and growth.

On the playground, children are able to interact with one another and negotiate the social structure on their own terms. With minimal adult intervention, the children work out what games they will play and how they will play them.

In the classroom, circle time balances out the unstructured outdoor time by offering a structured, formal time to practice listening skills and increasing attention span as well as how to interact with others in a large, formal group. Academic concepts including literacy, math and science are introduced here, and are reinforced through stations that students can explore themes and concepts hands-on. Group gross motor, singing and skill-building group games are also introduced here.

Throughout the school day, we encourage children to do things independently. This includes tasks such as nose-blowing, hand washing, putting on outdoor clothes or inside shoes, hanging up jackets and sweaters, and cleaning up areas and tables. The importance of encouraging children to do these things themselves is that it not only develops these skills, it also builds their self-confidence and independence. 

Our Preschool Philosophy

Our cooperative preschool has been in place since 1948. This parent-run model encourages a strong community and active and engaged families. Together as a membership, we elect a board and all serve on committees. We work together to create the best school for our children. Above all, our goal is to create a warm, inclusive community for our children and our families. Because we all volunteer our time, we are able to lower our cost of admissions to create an incredibly affordable tuition rate.