Come Learn and Play with Us

The Parent Cooperative for Early Learning is a not-for-profit pre-school designed by working parents, for working families. With parents at the helm, our first priority is to create an environment where our children will thrive, become prepared for elementary school, and enjoy school in a safe and nurturing environment. The school is governed by a board of directors comprised of parents, teachers, and the director. A few highlights of our program are listed below.

• In 2011 we successfully completed our NAEYC re-accreditation.
• We provide convenient school hours Monday-Friday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., 50 weeks a year.
• We have experienced, professional classroom teachers, with very low turnover
• Our small classrooms provide for a great student/teacher ratio
• We provide daily homemade breakfast, hot lunch, and snacks at no add'l cost.
• Children may start before they are potty trained and training is part of the curriculum.
• Children have active time with an indoor gym and outdoor play area.
• The school is fully licensed by the City of Chicago, and the State of Illinois Department of Children & Family Services.

School Activities

• Music Together with Marsha: Children love their regular Music Together time with Marsha an interactive, high-energy introduction to music.
• Spanish Workshop: Starting at age 2, students get weekly Spanish instruction.
• Swimming Lessons: During summer session kids ages 3 and older enjoy swimming lessons at the local YMCA.
• Field Trips: With several field trips a year, Chicago is our classroom.

Application Process

Application may be made at any time of the year and consists of completing a one-page information form and paying a $40 application fee. Prospective parents are encouraged to visit the school between 9:00 and noon or between 3:30 and 5:30.

Enrollment will be offered when there is an opening, but primarily on July 1 for the summer session or September 1 for the 10-month school year. Enrollment is accomplished by completing an enrollment agreement (contract) and paying a one-time $200 registration fee. Pre-admission packets include:

• A physical exam form, including a health history, immunization record, lead level result, and TB test result signed by the child's doctor, should provide a statement identifying any allergies and the interventions that may be needed during the school day;
• A developmental history, including information about the child's interests, family discipline, and other information; and
• A list of persons authorized to pick up the child and the granting of various permissions. Parents or guardians are responsible for maintaining current contact information at the school, especially phone numbers that may be needed in an emergency.

Schedule a Tour

Call Director Monica Foster at 773-684-6363 to schedule a tour and informational visit.