Arlington Unitarian Cooperative Preschool (AUCP)

We were only at AUCP for a year due to distance, and even then it was still really hard to say goodbye because we truly loved the school. As someone with a background in early childhood education, I had a particular vision for what school would look like for my own children, and AUCP hit the mark. Facilities were child-friendly and we loved the outdoor focus, staff was great, directors were impressive, friendly and inclusive community, and overall the school was well-run. We also really enjoyed the co-op model, being able to have a more active role in our child's first school experience. We would definitely recommend this school!

A great preschool option for families looking for a co-op experience. Beautiful playground, lots of outdoor time! Kids go to the nature center every other week. Focused on play based learning and gives kids autonomy. Recommended!

Both of my children have attended AUCP and I have to say it is a very special place. The teachers are so consistently caring and provide a very loving & safe place for every student to have a calm nurturing environment for growth. I have consistently been impressed with how well the teachers know my children in the parent teacher conferences and how they are looking for specific things that they can do to provide them with the tools they need going forward in life. The community aspect is amazing and really helps everyone feel connected in the journey of parenthood and is a great learning experience to find creative solutions to behavioral issues you may be having at home. If you want to have an active role in your child's school life the Co-oping aspect is amazing at understanding how their days is structured and how to talk to them about their experience (because you are in the classroom yourself). It can feel like a bit of a juggle when you have to Co-op, but the memories of being in class are a gift you and your child can share and treasure together. Magical place, magical people, and so worth the investment in getting to know yourself and your child better.

This is my daughter’s first year at AUCP and our family is loving it so far. The two mornings a week program for two year olds has been the perfect transition into school for her. It is a wonderful community of families, teachers, and staff and I am so thankful to have found the program. Getting to co-op in the classroom has been a great way to get to know her teacher, classmates, and their families, as well as to reinforce what she is learning at home. There are a number of other ways to get more involved in the school too if you wish. It is a safe, nurturing, and caring environment and I highly recommend it for anyone interested in the co-op preschool model.

We are a first time family with AUCP and our 2 year old daughter has had an INCREDIBLE experience. We have felt so welcomed into the program from the very beginning. Our daughter is excited to go to school and see her teachers each week (she even talks about them at home which is adorable). They are so caring and make sure each child is happy and taken care of. On top of that the classrooms, playground and facility are wonderful spaces for kids to learn. The staff keeps everything organized and clean (big plus for a clean mom like me). Very excited to continue sending our daughter there next year as she moves up to the next class.