Philosophy

Focus

At PCNS the focus is on the children, individually and as a group. Experiential learning is emphasized, which is appropriate for children of this age group. PCNS stresses that play is the work of children and that children learn by doing, by trying, and by succeeding. This attitude is meant to encourage a positive self-concept and a thirst to learn.

Our Cooperative Philosophy

PCNS is a place where children and parents learn together. In its cooperative framework, you will have the privilege and responsibility of sharing your child¹s first school experience. Parent-assistance allows you to be actively involved in what goes on in the classroom and to gain insight into your child's world.

We are committed to nurturing the unique assets of each child during the preschool years by combining professional teaching with parent participation. The teacher determines the curriculum and maintains standard procedures for the school program. However, the school is managed by parents who serve on the Board of Directors. The Board hires teachers, sets salary, and deals with the day-to-day operations of the school. Committees are established to handle such routine maintenance as painting bookshelves, cleaning toys, light housekeeping, fundraising, publicity, and so forth. Based on our shared commitment to the children and to the work and play of running the school, a strong sense of community flourishes.

Our Educational Philosophy

The Pittsford Cooperative Nursery School's educational philosophy is based on the belief that young children learn by playing and that their play reflects their continuous emotional, social, intellectual, and physical growth and development. We promote developmentally appropriate curricula according to the current consensus of the early childhood profession. Our most important goal is to have each child develop a positive self-image, and an interest and joy in learning. To do this, parents and teachers strive to provide a nurturing, stimulating environment in which children learn through play experiences.