Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Brooklyn Cooperative Preschool Cooperative Preschool | Play-Based Learning in Portland
Since 1971, Brooklyn Cooperative Preschool Cooperative Preschool has been a leader in fostering collaborative learning environments where children and families grow together. Our play-based approach empowers 2-4 year olds through open-ended exploration, problem-solving, and social development. Guided by certified educators and actively involved parent-teachers, we cultivate a nurturing community that prioritizes eco-conscious practices through our Eco-Healthy Child Care certification. As part of the Parent Child Preschool Organization, we provide structured curricula while maintaining flexibility for children to explore their interests.Our unique cooperative model creates lasting connections through shared classroom experiences, community-building events, and hands-on learning opportunities. With over five decades of experience, we combine educational expertise with practical training for families, ensuring a rich preschool experience that extends beyond traditional academic preparation.
Services
Jellyfish Class
Seahorse Class
Nursery Membership
School Tours
Open House
Fundraising Events
Details
- Year established: 1971
Highlights and features
- We've fostered cooperative learning since 1971 with proven family engagement models
- Our certified educators provide professional guidance in child development
- Eco-Healthy Child Care certification ensures safe, sustainable learning environments
- Family teachers receive structured training while participating in classroom activities
- Community events create lasting social connections for children and families
Associations and certifications
- Eco-Healthy Child Care
What people say
Strong community bonds
Teacher Merry is amazing
Tuition discount benefits
Happy child experiences
Well-equipped learning spaces
Services
Jellyfish Class
Our Jellyfish Class offers developmentally appropriate education for 2-year-olds. This program encourages social interaction and motor skill development through structured play activities. With two days weekly commitment, children explore sensory materials and begin developing independence while families participate in the learning process.
Seahorse Class
The Seahorse Class provides flexible attendance options for 3-4 year olds. This mixed-age program supports cognitive development through collaborative play and peer learning. Available up to five days weekly, it focuses on preparing children for future educational experiences through consistent routines and creative exploration.
Nursery Membership
Our nursery membership requires family participation as classroom parent-teachers. This cooperative model provides hands-on learning experiences while building community connections. Parents receive training and work alongside certified educators to support daily classroom activities and child development.
School Tours
We offer guided school tours to help prospective families experience our learning environment. Visitors explore classrooms equipped with sensory areas, art studios, and woodworking stations. Tours include opportunities to meet educators and observe our cooperative learning approach in action during designated open house periods.
Fundraising Events
Our organized fundraising activities support affordable tuition rates while building community engagement. Events include wine sales, rummage sales, and dine-out nights that foster social connections. Families can choose from multiple participation options that align with their availability and fundraising capabilities.
People
Merry
Lead Teacher
Certified educator with 10 years of experience at Brooklyn Cooperative Preschool Cooperative Preschool. Recognized as Parent Child Preschool Organization's Educator of the Year in 2013. Specializes in hands-on, child-led learning approaches.
Questions
What makes Brooklyn Cooperative Preschool Cooperative Preschool a cooperative preschool?
Our cooperative model involves parents as classroom participants who work alongside certified teachers to create a shared learning environment for children and families.
How do family teachers participate?
Parent-teachers assist in classrooms twice monthly, receiving training for their roles while supporting both educational activities and social-emotional development for all children.
What are the curriculum highlights?
Our program emphasizes open-play exploration, circle time activities, and structured sensory experiences across three dedicated classroom spaces with specialized learning stations.
How does fundraising work?
Families meet $200 annual obligations through organized events or direct payments, with surplus funds supporting classroom enhancements and enrichment activities.
What safety measures exist?
Our Eco-Healthy certified facility maintains strict safety protocols including supervised woodworking activities, non-toxic materials, and secure playground environments.
Videos
Reviews (6)
Bekah S.
Dec 15, 2021
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My daughter is in the Lions class (3-4s) which meets twice a week. Most days, she wakes up and says " Is today a preschool day?!" and is very disappointed when it's not. She has recently been asking me , " Mommy, can I go to preschool more days when I turn 4? I really hope so." Needless to say, we love Brooklyn. Both Teacher Merry and Teacher Nicole are kind, curious, and patient with the children and have a true passion for early childhood development. And, despite a trying year due to COVID, our community has pulled together in recognition of our common goal of pouring
Sarah D.
Jan 17, 2020
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I can't say enough wonderful things about this preschool and community. We are in our second year here and continue to be impressed both by the teachers as well as the amazing amount of good things which come from a community working together. Our son has loved it here from the moment he visited, and he continues to wish every day is a school day. This is in large part due to his fantastic and caring teacher Merry. She brings such thoughtfulness and expertise into the classroom. The children all really love her. I have also definitely learned a great deal from her which has greatly influenced
Adam W.
Jan 16, 2020
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Two of my daughters have gone to Brooklyn, one of whom started going in the first year of the program for 2-year olds, and so she is able to spend three years at the preschool. It's been great for both of them!
Friendships are made, kids grow alongside one another, and parents work together, both inside and outside of the classroom, to help the school run on a day-to-day basis. The teachers are both amazing and the preschool facilities are clean, large (with a large fenced outdoor play area) and always full of interesting and fun things to do and learn about.
Friendships are made, kids grow alongside one another, and parents work together, both inside and outside of the classroom, to help the school run on a day-to-day basis. The teachers are both amazing and the preschool facilities are clean, large (with a large fenced outdoor play area) and always full of interesting and fun things to do and learn about.
Alexis Lessard
Jul 22, 2018
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Update: Just wanted to update our review as were at our 3rd year at Brooklyn. We truly have found the community magical and the opportunity to be involved in our childrens preschool experience irreplaceable. I am only sad that our time is ending! The school has an amazing group of dedicated parents and caretakers and a wonderful teacher in Merry. I have loved getting to see and know these sweet preschoolers over the years and will always hold Brooklyn in my heart!
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We've been with Brooklyn for 4 months now and I am truly grateful that we found it! The entire experience
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We've been with Brooklyn for 4 months now and I am truly grateful that we found it! The entire experience
Megan C.
Jan 24, 2018
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Brooklyn Cooperative Preschool is amazing! Before my son entered this preschool, my husband and I were a little apprehensive and weren't sure if he was ready, both socially and with the separation from me. We shared our concerns with Teacher Merry and she was able to give us some reassurance. The events before school started allowed all of us to get to form relationships with the members in the Brooklyn community, which made it a much smoother transition! My son is now more confident, plays with his peers and loves going to school! We are so happy to be apart of the Brooklyn community
Leah Samour
Jan 12, 2018
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I don't even know how to put into words what a wonderful experience it has been for my son, and our family. But I'm going to try, to spread the word about this amazing school!
1) Merry! I have never met such an engaged, nurturing, fun spirited preschool teacher as this gal. As a parent teacher in the classroom, I've witnessed her countless times gently coming alongside students to help them express themselves, or problem solve together. She is so in tune with each child, and though there is a steady, predictable routine to each day, she is a master of improvising and flexibility. And all the fun
1) Merry! I have never met such an engaged, nurturing, fun spirited preschool teacher as this gal. As a parent teacher in the classroom, I've witnessed her countless times gently coming alongside students to help them express themselves, or problem solve together. She is so in tune with each child, and though there is a steady, predictable routine to each day, she is a master of improvising and flexibility. And all the fun
