our parent cooperative
Pre-2020, Berkeley Forest School operated as a parent-participatory cooperative. Although we had to shift and quickly adjust to COVID-responsive operations, including less contact and exposure during the pandemic (meaning fewer “Stay Days” for families) we will be returning to more of the cooperative spirit in 2023 that made our little forest school so special.
Families come to Berkeley Forest School for a variety of reasons. We appreciate the many paths taken to arrive at this place, and we acknowledge that there are many ways of being in this life. The rich diversity of perspectives in our cohort of families helps inform our culturally-responsive approach in the classroom. Our ultimate goal is to support and empower one another to raise our children and community with love and grace.
Prior to 2020, families would participate in a “Stay Day” for 1-2 days per month through the duration of their child’s enrollment in our preschool and kindergarten programs. For 2023 and beyond, we are envisioning a variety of ways for families to participate, including options from home.
This “Stay Day” participation role is an assisting position to forest school teachers. It is also an opportunity to witness the bold and exciting learning journey of their own children, and the rest of the class as well! It’s such a beautiful thing to see parents supporting each other and sharing in the joy of each other’s children through stories shared at the end of the day, or at the playground after school. Parents often celebrate the growth of the children in their child’s group as much as they do for their own child. Parents also come together for mutual support when their children experience similar struggles, as well. Community connection is key.