Q: How many days do I have to participate?

A: In a full class of 8 children, parents can expect to work about 2 duty shifts a month.

Q: What other things will I have to do?

A: Parents fill roles on the executive and committees that run the school. They also take on other positions such as laundry, ordering books, groundskeeping, emergency preparedness, etc. If a need comes up, work will be divided among the parents to meet it.

Q: How much does the preschool cost?

A:Morning classes cost $129.00. Afternoon classes cost $99.00. In addition, there is also a VICPA insurance fee, payable either in a lump sum or divided into smaller payments throughout the year. Up to date information about tuition and fees can be obtained from our Enrollment and Orientation Officer.

Q: What about fund-raising?

A: All parents must help raise funds for the school in order to keep our fees as low as possible. As a guarantee of participation in fund-raising activities, we ask that you give us a cheque at the beginning of the year in the amount of $150. This cheque will be returned to you at the end of the year if you actively participate in fund- raising activities.

Q: What is "Parent Education"?

A: This is the ongoing learning that all duty parents must undertake in order to be able to work in the school. As a co-operative preschool, we use the time and resources of parents instead of hiring additional teaching professionals. Part of the Vancouver Island Cooperative Preschool Association standards include the requirement that parents who work in the school participate in ongoing learning about important issues around early childhood education.

Q: What if I can't make a meeting or Parent Ed night?

A: Contact The Vice President of the school beforehand. Arrangements will be made to do your Parent Ed in another way.

Q: What if I can't make one of my duty shifts?

A: There are parents on the contact list who are designated as available to take extra shifts. It's your responsibility to see your shift is covered and that the ECE is informed of the change in schedule. If you can't find a replacement, contact the Vice President immediately.