The cooperative school is like a family composed of many families. It provides a unique developmental experience for both child and parent. The child steps out of the home environment with the parent. The child grows in independence, the parent in understanding. The parent has the inner satisfaction in knowing exactly what the child does during the school day and in knowing the child’s friends.
The ratio of adults to children is higher in a coop and most parents bring enriching experiences to the classroom.
Parents shape the school and make it what it will become. There is also a financial benefit—coops are usually less expensive than regular schools—although this means every family must actively participate in making the school run smoothly.
