Our History and Philosophy

Cooperative preschools offer a unique approach to preschool. Our motto is: “Learn and grow with your child”.  The goal is to strengthen and support the family while educating the children.

At Milford Cooperative Preschool, you will have the unique opportunity to work side by side with the classroom teachers, other families, and most importantly, your child.

The rich tradition of the Milford Cooperative Preschool began more than 55 years ago when Mrs. Dorothy Eis began teaching the preschool class in the basement of the Milford Public Library.  The classes then moved to the Milford Presbyterian Church and then again to the Methodist Church. The school became the first licensed preschool in Oakland County. With grants from the Kimberly-Clark Foundation and Lula C. Wilson Trust fund, assistance from the Greater Detroit Cooperative Nursery Council (GDCNC) and the unshakeable dedication of a small group of parents, it became one of the very few co-ops in the state to own its own building in 1996. Over the years, MCP has remained true to its original intent - to create a child-centered learning environment while also allowing parents to take an active role in the preschool experience.

Today, MCP maintains a membership of over 70 families and is a staple in the community. Like all of the students who have laughed, sang, pretended, played, painted, glued, listened, and blossomed, your child will benefit from this school. MCP is wholly-owned and operated by the parent membership as a non-profit organization. The director and teachers are responsible for curriculum planning and implementation of the educational program. The general management of the affairs and business of the school is executed by the School Board, which represents current membership.  Responsibilities include policy making and on-going support for various school functions, such as fundraising, and special activities throughout the year.

MCP has classes for two, three and four year olds. For the two year old program, children attend school with a parent while the lead teacher directs the classroom activities; this is a great way to begin the school experience. For the three and four year old programs, students attend school with other same-aged children, three teachers and a parent helper. Students attending the three and four year old programs must be fully toilet-trained with the exception of a child with a disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).  Families are considered for membership without regard to race, color, creed, religion, age, gender, or national origin.

Milford Cooperative Preschool does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin for admission or scholarships.