Frequently Asked Questions
Handbook, Bylaws & Budget
Handbook
Bylaws
2024-2025 Budget
Delaware Cooperative Preschool Registration and Pricing (2024 - 2025)
For Members: Registration opens on February 1st. For New Families: Join us at our Open House on Wednesday, February 7th, from 5:30-7:30 PM. Registration opens for new members that evening at 8:00 PM. Our Commitment: We welcome all families and provide equal opportunities for all, without discrimination based on race, color, veteran status, religion, national origin, political affiliation, sex, sexual orientation, or age. Class Availability: Classes are offered as long as we meet our minimum enrollment size on a first come first serve basis. Pricing Details: Membership Fee: $60 per family Session Fees: Toddler Time: $634 per session Preschool: $713 per session Cleaning Fee: $30 per child Background Check Fee: $65 per person (if done at our Meet the Teacher Night). The background check is good for 5 years if you volunteer at least once every six months. Withdrawal Policy: If you need to withdraw your child, just give us a 30-day written notice. You’ll be responsible for tuition during that 30-day period. Please note, we can’t offer refunds after March 1st. We’re excited to welcome you and your child to the Delaware Cooperative Preschool family!
What is a "session"?
A "session" at DCP refers to a school day. DCP offers both morning and afternoon sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays, allowing families the flexibility to choose what fits their schedule. Some families enroll their child(ren) in a single session per week, while others opt for multiple sessions. This variety of options makes it easier for families with different schedules to participate in our community.
Is a cooperative preschool the right fit for our family?
Joining a cooperative preschool is incredibly rewarding, as it fosters a strong sense of community and allows you to spend meaningful time with your child in the classroom. Each family must designate someone to complete a background check and submit a medical statement confirming they are fit to work with children and meet the volunteer requirements. Typically, families volunteer 2-3 times per year for each Preschool session and 4-5 times per year for each Toddler Time session their child is enrolled in. If you're looking to join a close-knit community and actively participate in your child's education, we'd love to have you with us. For more details on volunteer requirements, please check the DCP Member Handbook (below).
What are the membership requirements?
Enrolling a child in one of DCP’s classes establishes your membership and requires you to: - Attend 2-3 General Membership Meetings - Help with fundraising events - Serve on a committee and use your talents to help sustain and grow the preschool - Volunteer time within your child's classroom *DCP requires at least 1 parent/guardian per household to volunteer. Additional volunteers, e.g. grandparents, are also welcome - they will simply need to complete the appropriate requirements.
What is a GMM?
Our General Membership Meetings are held every few months and provide an opportunity for all members to come together, exchange ideas, vote on current issues, and collaborate on future plans. At least one active member from each family is required to attend these meetings.
What are my responsibilities as a classroom volunteer?
Please bring a healthy snack for the whole class (see snack guidelines) Arrive 15 minutes before the class begins to assist with morning preparations. - During the class period: complete cleaning duties as outlined. - During the class period: complete tasks as requested by the teacher. - Enjoy your time with your child and his/her classmates in the classroom. - Complete closing cleaning duties, as outlined on the daily cleaning checklist.
What if I'm signed up for a volunteer slot and can't make it?
DCP will create a volunteer schedule before the school year starts. If you can’t volunteer on your assigned day, you must contact another parent in your class (refer to the member roster in your BrightWheel family portal) to arrange a swap. Be sure to update the schedule by noting any changes both online using the Classroom Volunteer form and on the hard copy posted at the school.
What are the snack guidelines?
On your assigned volunteer days, you are responsible for providing a nutritious snack for your child(ren)’s class. If you cannot provide a snack on your designated day, it is your duty to arrange for another family to do so or inform the teachers so they can use a previously donated snack. DCP keeps extra snack items on hand. If you forget to bring a snack, please replenish the supply with a non-perishable replacement as soon as possible. Snack Time Details: - Toddlers: Drink water from cups provided during snack time. - Preschoolers: Use their own water bottles. Food Safety and Restrictions: - Be aware of any food restrictions for your child(ren)’s class, as some children may have food allergies or sensitivities. - Refer to the choking hazard appendix in the handbook for additional guidance. - Note that no food preparation is allowed onsite, so please bring any necessary cutlery if your snack requires it. Healthy Snack Suggestions: - Fresh fruit or vegetables (e.g., bananas, apples, carrot sticks) - Muffins or bread - Animal crackers - Pretzels or crackers - Cereal or Chex mix - Applesauce pouches - Veggie Straws Special Diets: - If your family has special dietary needs due to cultural, religious, or health reasons, please inform the teacher(s) in writing.
What if my child isn't able to attend a session?
Please call the office at 740-369-7808 or email communications@dcpkids.com to report an absence.
What should my child bring to school each day? Do they need a backpack?
Please bring a full change of clothes. Preschoolers should also bring a fresh, labeled water bottle each day, and lunch if they attend an afternoon session. A backpack or small bag to keep in their cubby is a great idea!
How will I get updates about what's going on in the classroom?
Aside from what you'll get to experience as a classroom volunteer, you will receive regular emails that will include information about what toddlers and preschoolers have been working on at DCP. In addition, families will receive information via BrightWheel.
Board Of Directors Details
Board of Directors Make up: The Board of Directors shall consist of President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Volunteer Coordinator. Terms of office shall be from June 1 to May 31. Board member duties are fulfilled on a volunteer basis; tuition credit is also budgeted annually (historically, 3 sessions for Presidency and 1/2 session for all other roles). Board Qualifications: Must be an Active Member for the academic year of nomination and the academic year of service. Nominees must attend a minimum of two Board of Director meetings before election in the nomination year. Directors shall serve no more than two consecutive terms in any one position on the Board. President of the Board is limited to two terms total. Exceptions to these qualifications may be made in the event of extenuating circumstances, at the Board’s discretion. Nomination and Election Process: Nomination to the Board of Directors can be submitted on one’s own behalf, or on the behalf of another Active Member. Nominations must be submitted to the Vice President by April 1. Board of Directors shall be elected by simple majority vote of the Active Members at the final regularly scheduled General Membership Meeting. When all Board positions are uncontested, a verbal or show of hands vote may be used. When any Board position is contested, a secret ballot must be used. Ballots will be counted by three current Board Members as directed by the Vice President. Transition of Board Positions and Duties: From May 1 to May 31 the departing board members will train the new incoming board members on their elected positions. If a vote of approval is required during this transition period, the votes cast by the outgoing board members for the current year will be counted. All incoming and outgoing members are required to attend the May board meeting.