Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean that you are a co-op?
A cooperative means that the school is completely administered, maintained and funded by the parents of the enrolled children. Parents help maintain the facility, raise money and serve on committees.

What does classroom participation consist of?
We encourage that you join your child and their friends in an activity such as reading a book, playing a game, or assisting with a project. It is always a favorite day for the children when their parents come to school.

What is the adult-to-child ratio?
The ratio of adults to children is approximately 1 to 7 in the Preschool I program and 1 to 9 in the Preschool II program. All classes have two teachers.

What is the age-range of children enrolled at the preschool?
Children should be two years and nine months by September 1st to enroll in the Preschool I program. Preschool II students are age four before September 1st. Each spring, we also offer a Preschool Prep program for two-and three-year-olds to help acclimate them for Preschool I.

Does my child have to be toilet-trained?
Children do not have to be toilet-trained to begin preschool. We understand that becoming toilet-trained is a major milestone in a child’s development and that children reach this point only when they are ready. The teachers will help your child in their toileting needs in a stress-free manner.

How many days must children attend?
Preschool I students must enroll for a minimum of two days a week but may also opt for three or four days a week, depending on availability. The Preschool II program is four days a week.

How long is the school year?
The school year begins in early September and ends in early June.

Where is NCNS located?
NCNS is located at 24 Berwick Street, across from the Chapel Street Common, in Norwood, MA. The preschool space is in the lower level of the Emmanuel Lutheran Church.

Is the preschool a non-profit?
The Norwood Cooperative Nursery School, Inc. is a nonprofit, nonsectarian preschool. The school was established in 1962, incorporated in 1978 under Massachusetts State Law and gained tax-exempt status in 1980. NCNS is licensed in Massachusetts by the Department of Early Education and Care.