Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Cooperative Preschool in Rockville, MD
Established in 1963, RPCNS has provided high-quality preschool education rooted in cooperative learning principles. Founded by Rockville Presbyterian Church parishioners, we received Maryland State Department of Education accreditation in 1969 and incorporated as a 501(c)3 nonprofit in 1985. Our program combines certified teaching staff with active parent participation to create a nurturing environment for children aged 2-4. We maintain low adult-to-child ratios (1:3-4 in Twos and Threes classes) to ensure personalized attention and safety. Our Maryland-approved curriculum includes Handwriting Without Tears, weekly music classes, and field trips to nature centers and farms.The parent-led Board of Directors oversees operations while maintaining a safe, clean facility with developmentally appropriate materials. We offer enrichment programs in cultural awareness and science, along with sibling nursery services and extended care options. As members of PACT and PCPI, we uphold industry standards while welcoming families of all backgrounds. Our outdoor playground and structured activities promote both gross and fine motor skill development. Through collaborative governance and professional instruction, we create a unique educational ecosystem where children, parents, and educators thrive together.
Services
Nursery School Classes
Enrichment Programs
Before and After Care
Sibling Nursery
Music Time for Tots
Summer Camp
Details
- Year established: 1963
Highlights and features
- Certified teaching staff with passion for cooperative education
- Low adult-to-child ratios (1:3-4 in Twos and Threes classes)
- Parent-led Board of Directors overseeing school operations
- Safe, clean facility with developmentally appropriate materials
- Maryland-approved comprehensive curriculum with field trips
Associations and certifications
- Maryland State Department of Education Office of Child Care
Services
Nursery School Classes
Structured educational programs for children aged 2-4 with certified teachers and parent participation. Daily activities include curriculum-based learning, music, and outdoor play. Classes operate five days weekly with flexible scheduling options.
Enrichment Programs
Monthly cultural awareness and science enrichment activities complement core curriculum. Weekly music classes led by certified instructors develop rhythm and coordination. Field trips to nature centers and farms provide hands-on learning experiences.
Before and After Care
Flexible care available from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM with structured activities. Includes supervised play, educational materials, and outdoor time. Designed to accommodate working parents' schedules while maintaining learning continuity.
Sibling Nursery
Onsite nursery for younger siblings during parent participation hours. Staffed with qualified caregivers providing age-appropriate activities. Allows older children to attend classes while keeping families together.
Summer Camp
Themed summer activities including water play, arts and crafts, and outdoor games. Operates during June-August with extended hours. Includes special events and bagged lunch program for enrolled students.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We serve children aged 2, 3, and 4 through our structured nursery school programs.
Is the school licensed and accredited?
Yes, we're licensed by Maryland State Department of Education and hold Certificate of Approval #50012.
What curriculum do you use?
Our Maryland-approved curriculum includes Handwriting Without Tears and weekly music classes.
Do you offer before and after care?
Yes, extended care is available from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM with structured activities.
How do I apply for enrollment?
Applications for the 2025-2026 year are available online through our website.
Videos
Reviews (6)
Mario Rilloraza
Jun 19, 2019
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All my 3 kids has enjoyed and learned a lot ,it is also where you can bond with parents and share experiences. It is where you can be with your children (Child) learning new things together. It is where you learn volunteerism and enjoy working with fellow parents . Being a stay at home dad or Mr. Mom bonding with my kids and there playmates was the best thing that ever happened to me ...just like being the cool uncle 👍👍👍😇😇😇
Shadi Mokhtari
Jun 10, 2019
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This is a truly unique school full of compassion, joy and community for the children who attend and their families. After a great year in the 2s class, we decided to try a traditional preschool without co-op duties for us. After we left, almost every day for four months, our three year-old told us he wanted to go back to RCPNS. We decided to… listen to him and are so, so glad we did. RPCNS is an extremely well-managed, active, and creative environment where you know exactly what is going on in your child's class. Since it is a co-op, there is a good bit of work you take on, but the school
Erin Zona Robinson
Jan 30, 2019
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My youngest is in his second year at RPCNS and we couldn't be happier! My older children went to two other preschools (due to a move) and this is by far the best preschool experience we have had. You feel the warmth the minute you walk through the door. The quality of the teaching staff and the creativity used in the curriculum has surpassed the… other preschools by a mile. It's an instant community, where you get to know the other children through co-oping, get to know other parents, and be involved in the classroom. In our old preschool, I had a hard time knowing what my older son did
Sue Maya
Oct 30, 2018
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The RPCNS is an amazing school and a big family where you always feel welcomed. They offer high quality education which helps your kids build their skills so they’ll be ready for kindergarten.
Patti Westenberg
Jun 15, 2018
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Such a special opportunity to be involved in your childs first learning experience. Being in the classroom to see how they interact with teachers and friends has been priceless to us. I know my girls are ready for kindergarten and what they need to improve upon. And getting to know each and every student and family brings a great sense of community. Detailed organization, sparkling clean facilities, on site sibling nursery and transparent affordable pricing. I couldn't ask for more!
Tracy Niebauer
Aug 16, 2017
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Fully-supportive, close-knit community. My children have loved their teachers and classes, art projects, music enrichment, and after school activities. I've enjoyed being in their classrooms, getting to know their classmates, and learning from their teachers and the other parents. I treasure this short time I have to be involved in my children's' classroom environment and education. BONUS: the on-site sibling nursery is invaluable for nursing moms with infants and young toddlers.
