The Montclair Cooperative School is a leader in progressive education where student voice is valued and respected, and children become active participants in their own learning journey. Following the cooperative model, teachers, parents and students work together to create an equitable, supportive environment where all students thrive.
From preschool at age four through eighth grade, the school’s small class sizes provide opportunities for deep connections between students and teachers. This affords students ownership of their work and the development of a lifelong love of learning. “These authentic relationships create meaningful experiences for students, teachers and parents—they truly are the heart and soul of our school,” says Director of Enrollment Management Emily Kohan.
NURTURING SKILLS THROUGH PERSONAL CONNECTIONS
Montclair Cooperative School’s mission is to create a nurturing and diverse environment where children grow and flourish intellectually, emotionally and socially. “Our school puts just as much emphasis on social-emotional growth as it does on academics—our classrooms provide opportunities for collaboration, problem-solving and developing empathy,” Kohan says. “We believe a child who is socially and emotionally in a positive, balanced environment has a strong foundation for continued study, growth and academic risk-taking.”
Co-op teachers create deep and personal connections with students, and get to know each child’s way of thinking individually and in groups to ensure the curriculum meets the needs of each new cohort. “We always say we aren’t teaching lessons, we’re teaching children. When you put the emphasis on the child, that’s where the magic unfolds,” she says.
A STRONG SENSE OF COMMUNITY
At the heart of Montclair Cooperative School’s success is community and a deep sense of connection with everyone involved in the co-op. The school believes parents are partners in their children’s education; they are invited to participate in numerous aspects of co-op life, from assisting in their child’s classroom to lending their time and talent by serving on various committees.
“When family members are visible in the school setting, children realize how large their support system is,” Kohan says. “Developing care and compassion for everyone within our school community is so important to us, and we wouldn’t be who we are without it.”
65 Chestnut St., Montclair
973-783-4955
montclaircoop.org
