Watertown Cooperative Nursery School Inc.

Overview Watertown Cooperative Nursery School Inc. was a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing cooperative preschool education. Founded in 1952 by a group of parents affiliated with MIT, the school emphasized the involvement of families in their children's preschool experience. The school fostered a community where parents participated as classroom helpers and board members, enhancing the educational journey of young children.

Mission and Programs WCNS focused on a play-based, child-led approach to learning, believing in the importance of free play for children's cognitive, social, and physical development. The school offered flexible scheduling options and encouraged parental involvement, creating a cohesive community of families. The cooperative model allowed parents to be actively engaged in the educational process, contributing to the management and operations of the school.

History Watertown Cooperative Nursery School Inc. operated for more than 70 years, embodying the cooperative preschool concept popularized in the mid-20th century. This model, rooted in the principles of parental participation and community engagement, was part of a broader movement in the United States during the post-war period, where cooperative preschools became increasingly popular as a means of providing community-based childcare.

Closure In 2024, Watertown Cooperative Nursery School announced its closure due to low enrollment, which made it financially unsustainable. Despite efforts to find a solution, the school ceased operations permanently as of August 23, 2024. A farewell event was held at Casey Playground to celebrate the school's long history and impact on the community.

References

• Watertown Cooperative Nursery School Closure Announcement[1].
• Background on Cooperative Preschools in the U.S.[2].
• WCNS Open House and Community Involvement[3].

[1] https://www.watertownmanews.com/2024/08/19/watertown-cooperative-nursery-school-closing-after-70-years-farewell-event-planned/ [2] https://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/document?repid=rep1&type=pdf&doi=13288255ea3123b9101a5acc1f12a47f44f9ff82 [3] https://www.watertownmanews.com/2024/07/22/watertown-cooperative-nursery-school-hosting-open-play-open-house/ [4] https://atrium.org/preschool-fair [5] https://www.guidestar.org/profile/04-2160538