About our School
HISTORY
In 1953, a group of parents founded the All Austin Cooperative Nursery
School (AACNS) with the purpose of providing a racially integrated,
educationally sound learning environment for their children. Over the
years, AACNS expanded and developed into a family-centered school,
continuing to maintain a policy of nondiscrimination with regard to
race, religion, color, and national origin. It was many years, however,
before the Co-op was able to realize its dream of owning a space of its
own. Finally, in 2002, on the eve of its 50th anniversary, AACNS
purchased, renovated, and moved into a building designed solely for the
use of young children and their families.
PHILOSOPHY
We believe in:
• young children learning through play
• active exploration
• problem solving
• respect for other ideas and perspectives
• learning in an inviting, relaxed, and accepting atmosphere
• guiding children's physical, intellectual, emotional, and social development
• encouraging active engagement with a variety of rich, diverse materials
• risk taking and encouraging independence
PARENT PARTICIPATION
Parents are active collaborators in the educational process at the Co-op. All
parents of enrolled children are welcome to visit their child’s
classroom at all times. In addition, parents at the Co-op assist in the
classroom on a rotating basis. In each class there is a parent and
teacher every day. Parents enrich the program by lending their special
talents, interests, ideas, and resources; by participating in the
classroom; by taking part in workdays; and by serving on the school
Board and school-wide committees.