Pearson Community Co-operative Nursery School Inc.

Pearson Community Co-operative Nursery School Inc. is a Canadian nonprofit organization providing early childhood education through a co-operative preschool model. Founded in 1977 in Burlington, Ontario, it is recognized for its commitment to community involvement, quality early childhood programming, and nurturing play-based learning environments.

History

Pearson Community Co-operative Nursery School began as a drop-in centre for mothers and preschoolers in 1977, located in a classroom at Pearson High School. The founding group of parents identified a need for a quality co-operative nursery school in the community. This led to the creation of a unique nursery lab integrated into the high school’s Family Studies curriculum, providing practical learning opportunities for students and a developmental environment for preschoolers.

The nursery school was developed with significant community support, including volunteer efforts, donations, and grants. Carole Holmes, a Family Studies teacher with expertise in childhood education, was instrumental in shaping the school during its early years. Karen Chan was the first full-time Early Education Supervisor, while Joyce Savoline served as the first parent chairperson of the Executive Board. Co-operative parent participation in the classroom, a hallmark of the school’s educational philosophy, has remained a core feature since its inception.

Educational Philosophy and Programs

The school operates on the principle that young children are competent, capable, curious, and rich in potential. Its curriculum is child-led through exploration and inquiry, balancing child-initiated and adult-supported learning opportunities. The programs emphasize play-based learning to foster social, cognitive, language, and physical development.

Pearson offers half-day programs with flexible scheduling options, including two, three, or five days a week, available in mornings, afternoons, or both. Each program includes healthy snacks and outdoor play, enhancing the holistic growth of the children.

Mission and Vision

• Mission: To provide a supportive and developmentally appropriate program where staff, parents, and children learn, grow, play, and discover together in a safe, caring, and nurturing environment.
• Vision: To be a recognized community leader in delivering the highest quality early childhood programming within a nurturing play-based setting.

Community and Values

Pearson Community Co-operative Nursery School continues to operate with the same community spirit that characterized its founding. It maintains a strong emphasis on inclusivity, parental involvement, and fostering a warm, welcoming environment for families. The co-operative model encourages active participation by parents in the classroom, reinforcing a family-centered approach to early childhood education.

Location and Facilities

The school’s classrooms are housed within Brant Hills Public School, offering bright, well-equipped spaces overlooking the Niagara Escarpment. This setting supports an enriching environment conducive to exploration and learning.

Pearson Community Co-operative Nursery School Inc. remains dedicated to its foundational principles of community collaboration, quality early childhood education, and nurturing the potential of every child through thoughtful play-based learning experiences[1][4].