Academic Pathways Cooperative Preschool

Updated Review - 3/1/24 I can't endorse Academic Pathways anymore as Miss Allison is no longer the teacher, so I can't say how it's going to be run. It's definitely not going to be the same. It was a great place while she was there, as you can read in my initial review below. But the one issue with co-ops like Academic is the board is run by other parents, and the board changes over every year, and within a few years, it's all new parents on the board. Some years you might have a great board and other years you might not. For example, you might have a board that's super fun and wants to do what's best for the kids, and other years it might be people on a power trip with their own agenda. There can be a lack of consistency. So if you're interested in having your child come here, make sure your priorities are in line with the current board. Also make sure to check the credentials of whoever is teaching there now. ----------------- Original Review from 2021 We are super happy with Academic Pathways and it has exceeded our expectations. The teacher, Miss Allison, is great with the kids as well as her assistant, Miss Nancy. Miss Allison and Miss Nancy really go above and beyond for the kids and put so much love into this place. We're also impressed with how professionally this co-op is run and how on top of things they are. There's lot of fun events for the kids and the parents all year long.

My daughter attended here for 2 years and we had a positive experience! Shes already telling me how much she'll miss her preschool next year when she starts kindergarten.

My child attended the 4yo/pre-k class last year and we loved it! He learned so much and truly excelled. We plan to come back when our youngest reaches preschool age. My child loved his teachers, Ms. Allison and Ms. Nancy. They were always so kind, caring and patient with the kids, and their families. The academics were perfect for the age group—there was a lot of hands learning when they did centers, and the kids also had daily free play time. They did art projects, read books, sang songs and played games regularly. There were opportunities for kids to practice both small motor and large motor skills daily. We also loved their extra gross motor skills program, Motor Moms & Dads, that was done a couple times each month. I especially loved that since it’s a co-op, I was able to be involved and help in the classroom regularly, and my child loved me being there, too. The parents of the kids enrolled essentially run the school by volunteering for the various jobs that need doing, and the board is made up of and elected by the parents as well, so every one is very invested and involved in the success of the school. The only area I would like to see improved is the outdoor play equipment, which I know is a big project and something they are hoping to improve soon as well.

Sadly, after 50 years, the school is permanently closed due to the latest board's mismanagement of it. This is from their website: "It is with deep sadness that we announce the closure of Academic Pathways Cooperative Preschool after 50 wonderful years of serving our community. Unfortunately, due to a lack of available parent volunteers, we are unable to continue operating. Our cooperative model has always depended on the involvement and partnership of our families, and without this vital support, we cannot sustain the program. We are incredibly grateful to 242 Church for generously allowing us to use their space, providing our students with a warm and welcoming place to learn, play, and grow. We are truly thankful for the countless memories, friendships, and learning that have taken place here over the decades. Academic Pathways Cooperative Preschool will always hold a special place in our hearts."

We have had very positive experiences with Academic Pathways. Supportive, kind staff, always willing to go the extra mile to ensure the safety of our grandchild. Thank you!!!