Gentle Dragon, a cooperative preschool of twelve or thirteen children and a teacher/director, provides a mixed-age environment for children aged two years nine months to five years. We will not discriminate in providing services to children and their families on the basis of race, religion, cultural heritage, national origin, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status or disability.

We believe that socio-emotional and cognitive growth are fostered in a safe environment that includes making choices and negotiating social situations. We are committed to providing a balance between free play and structured activities. A variety of activities are available every day, including playdough, sand, art materials, puzzles and games, blocks, painting, climbing and dramatic play opportunities. The curriculum is based on a routine of playing, exploring materials, making friends and understanding one's place in the community of children, parents and teacher.

Curriculum themes may be based on seasonal changes, interests of the children and their families and areas that may warrant exploration based on the content of the children's play. Holiday activities are addressed as a way for individual children to share family backgrounds with the group and a way for the group to share and show respect for individuals. Multi-cultural activities include cooking, songs and literature.

As a parent cooperative, parent participation is an essential and integral part of Gentle Dragon. All families work together with the teacher to set policies and make decisions about the administration of the school (for example, major purchases) and classroom issues at the monthly board meetings. In addition, each family agrees to take on other responsibilities, -- parent helping in the classroom, taking on a special job, and providing snack.

The teacher/director is in charge in the classroom, and is responsible for ensuring that the school complies with OCCS regulations. The teacher is responsible for keeping the children safe, for setting the tone in the classroom and for making sure it is well-equipped and interesting. It is also the teacher's responsibility to set and carry out developmentally appropriate curriculum goals, to set goals for individual children, to keep track of their progress, and to communicate with parents about their children on a daily basis. The teacher also makes home visits at the start of the school year and holds two conferences a year with each family.