Park West Cooperative Nursery School

Park West is more than just a nursery school, it is a one of a kind welcoming community focused on building meaningful connections between children, teachers, families, caregivers and staff. They believe in the importance of taking the time to build a healthy and trusting relationship between the teacher and child (and parents) and take separation very seriously. The teachers are patient and kind and approachable. They are all extremely knowledgeable and experienced yet continue to research new approaches to teaching. My family is so grateful to be a part of the Park West Community and find a lot of peace with our choice to send our child there. Lucky for us, we got in after the admissions deadline had passed, perhaps a family moved away over the summer and that’s how my last minute application was accepted. I was also able to call and schedule an in-person tour. Had I been more on top of things, I would have attended an open house in January and applied by the deadline in early February. The school year started with meet and greets at neighborhood playgrounds, parent potlucks, school block party, and of course parent orientation. I love the open and honest dialogue I have with my child’s teachers. My kid has a speech delay and the teachers have been awesome and willing to help understand how he communicates and meet him with where he is at to reduce frustration in the classroom and with his peers. This was a big fear of mine as a first time parent - will the teachers understand my child. And at Park West they really have put in the time to get to know him and work with him. I also love how each family gets to help in the classroom every couple of weeks. It’s allowed me to get to know the kids my child calls friends. And see what skills the teachers are focused on teaching. It’s been great and something we look forward to. I’ve seen my child grow over the school year - he’s more confident and independent and loves school. It’s more than we could have hoped for. I would highly recommend Park West to any family looking for a supportive community committed to respecting children and families, nurturing relationships and sharing a love of learning.

Park West Cooperative Nursery School in Chicago is a truly special place. The unique structure creates an incredibly strong sense of community among the families, and the dedicated, passionate teachers foster such a warm and nurturing environment. It's a fantastic school where I've watched my children thrive.

Park West has been the BEST preschool for our 2 children to begin their educational journey. When we began our preschool search for our oldest, we wanted to find a school where we could be involved and we found that in Park West. We are able to assist in their classrooms and get to know their friends and favorite things about school. The Park West teachers really understand that each child is an individual and meet them where they are at and that makes the teachers stand out from the rest. We love Park West!

Park West Coop is amazing. When I was looking for a preschool in Lincoln Park, I wanted one that was warm and fuzzy and would give my children a love of school and learning; Park West exceeded my expectations. The teachers along with the play-based philosophy had both of my kids asking to go to school on their days off. Initially, I was really worried about how my kids would separate from me at the beginning of the school year. Park West’s gentle separation process eased them into school and before long, they were happily waving me good-bye at the start of the day. I loved being able to assist in the classroom. It gives a glimpse into what my child’s school life is like. (I also love that the other parents would tell me what my child was up to when they were assisting). Another concern of mine was if my kids would be prepared for kindergarten. Park West’s definitely delivered on this as well. My son’s kindergarten teacher even commented on how well prepared he was. Park West is incredible when it comes social emotional learning. These skills have not only benefited my children but us as entire family. Simply put, Park West is one of the best decisions I have ever made.

Park West is the absolute best introduction to school a child can have. My kids have felt happy, loved and safe while attending PW. The staff are experts in child development and really set your child up for success for their school career. I really cannot say enough good things about this school!!