Parent Participation

As a thriving cooperative community, parents are an important part of CCSC! The quality of our organization depends on the combined efforts of all CCSC adults, both in the classroom, around the Center, and in our administrative and governing bodies.

Co-op at CCSC

A little of your time. A closer connection to your child's world.

CCSC began in 1969 when Stanford students took turns caring for one another’s children. Today, families continue that tradition by participating alongside teachers in the classroom.

What does “co-op” mean?
Co-op is our parent participation option. Families contribute time in their child’s classroom, helping care for the whole group while receiving a reduced tuition rate.

What is the time commitment?
Two hours each week on a regular schedule. Morning (8:30-10:30 am) and afternoon (4:00-6:00 pm) shifts are available, depending on classroom needs and availability.

What would I do during my shift?
You might read stories, join children’s play, help with snacks, prepare materials, or assist with cleanup and care routines. Teachers guide your participation—you don’t need teaching experience.

How does co-op benefit my family?
You’ll experience your child’s day firsthand, get to know their friends and teachers, and learn more about our approach to early childhood education. Along with reduced tuition, co-op offers opportunities for shared memories and lasting community connections.

What do I need to complete before starting?
Participating parents complete orientation, read and acknowledge the handbook, obtain a CCSC-approved background clearance, complete volunteer mandated reporter training, and submit required immunization and TB documentation. 

What if I need to miss a shift?
Families first try to arrange a swap with another co-oping family. Buy-outs and eligible make-up shifts are also available under the handbook’s procedures. Attendance and notice requirements apply, and fees may be charged.

Is co-op required?
Families may choose co-op or non-co-op tuition. We’re happy to help you explore what works for your family.

Interested in learning more?
Contact Rachel Lim at rachel@ccscparentcoop.org.

Work Day Requirement

In addition to cooping in the classroom, parent help is essential to keep the Center running smoothly and to ensure that it is an engaging, clean, safe place for children. Thus, in the spirit of a cooperative, families are required to also participate in quarterly workday jobs. Each family is responsible for completing four hours of work per quarter (according to the academic calendar).

Each quarter, CCSC classrooms create a list of workday jobs to be done either on a family’s own time or at a scheduled time. Additionally, workdays are often organized for specific classrooms and periodically CCSC’s administrative team will schedule an all-center workday. You may also fulfill the workday requirement by participating in a fund development event that happens throughout the year. In addition to regularly organized workdays, there are also maintenance jobs that need to be done around the Center periodically. We also welcome individual participation as many parents fulfill their requirement by doing a variety of “odd jobs” around the center.