Hello! Thank you so much for checking out our cooperative preschool. This special place is built on values of community support, family involvement, and playing together for over 50 years!

I discovered the co-op 7 years ago while looking for a preschool for my son. I was a stay-at-home mom and wanted him to have social experiences, but I was also reluctant to send him all day or give up my time with him. A friend told me about the co-op and I was so excited at the opportunity to share my son’s school life with him. I was able to interact with his classmates and their families, work alongside his teacher, and build on what he was learning at home. What a wonderful first experience to foster a love of school! Little did I know that I would graduate from co-op parent to co-op board member and now co-op teacher! Working within this incredible program is truly a dream come true.

I grew up in Northern Michigan and feel so lucky to be able to call this beautiful place home! My husband and I have been married for 10 years and live in Suttons Bay with our two amazing kids. Jameson is 9, Lilah is 5 and both attended the co-op and now attend school in Suttons Bay. You will often find us with our dog hiking, biking, on the beach, fishing, and playing sports. I also practice yoga and enjoy reading, especially in the sunshine!

I earned my Child Development Associate Certificate in 2011 and have taught in two Traverse City childcare centers with children 3-5 years old. I enjoy researching different methods of early learning and implementing ideas in my classroom such as having a consistent balanced schedule, learning with the brain and body together, and creating a home-like environment with inviting materials. I am very passionate about continuing my education and, am always seeking out resources to learn from and people to share new ideas with. As a teacher, I believe connecting with children and building relationships with families creates a warm, safe environment for them to explore and discover. We read books, dance to music, create art, build, and play games as this wonderful multi-aged, diverse group. We encourage one another and share our successes and challenges. The children are preparing for Kindergarten, while also practicing skills that will help them to co-exist as thoughtful citizens in our beautiful world.

I hope you come and join us! We play all day and learn at the same time. Our families support one another and everyone learns something from everyone. It is a beautiful thing!