Question 1

What are the classes offered and what is the class size?

Accepted Answer

Parents Day Out, or "Littles" Class 12 months to 27 months and walking confidently and independently, with a maximum of 4 students per class. MWF & TTH2s&3s, or "Middles" Class: 27 months to 3 years old with a maximum of 8 students per class. MWF & TTHPre-K, or "Bigs" Class: 3 ½ to 5 years old with a maximum of 12 students per class. MWF, TTH or 5 daysWe now offer Extended Day opportunities for our Pre-K "Bigs" and 2s&3s "Middles" classes!Our regular class day runs from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Extended Days goes until 2:00 p.m.*MWF = Monday, Wednesday & Friday | TTH = Tuesday & Thursday

Question 2

Do you still enroll students after the school year has started?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We welcome new families year-round. Even though the official school year may have already begun, we continue to accept enrollment as long as space is available and there isn’t a waitlist. If you’re considering joining us, please don’t hesitate to reach out! We’d be delighted to share more about our school, give a tour and see if we’re the right fit for your family.

Question 3

What is play-based learning?

Accepted Answer

Play-based learning is an educational approach where children learn by doing—through play, exploration, and hands-on experiences. In this type of environment, play is guided by both the child’s interests and the teacher’s support. While children engage in activities that feel fun and natural, they’re also developing important skills like problem-solving, creativity, communication, and cooperation. Research shows that play-based learning helps young children build strong social, emotional, and academic foundations that prepare them for future learning.

Question 4

What is your philosophy and curriculum?

Accepted Answer

We believe children learn best through play and exploration in a safe, nurturing environment. Our curriculum grows from the interests and needs of the children, blending individual discovery, group collaboration, and hands-on learning experiences.

To learn more about our philosophy and curriculum in detail, please visit our Philosophy & Curriculum page.

Question 5

What are Cornerstone’s hours and schedule?

Accepted Answer

Our school is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 noon. Though, some classes will offer extended days, depending on availability. We follow the Denton Independent School District’s calendar, including school holidays, teacher planning days, and closures for severe weather.

Question 6

What type of parents is Cornerstone Cooperative a right fit for?

Accepted Answer

Our little school is a wonderful fit for families who want to be actively involved in their child’s early education. Because we are a cooperative preschool, parents play an important role in the classroom and in the daily life of the school.

Our model works especially well for:

Parents who enjoy volunteering and being part of a close-knit community
Families looking for a more affordable preschool option
Stay-at-home or part-time working parents who want a few hours a week for their child to play, learn, and socialize with others (and possibly get some errands done, child-free!)
Parents who value hands-on, play-based learning and want to see their child thrive in a nurturing environment

At Cornerstone, parents don’t just drop off—they join in. This involvement creates a strong sense of community while enriching every child’s preschool experience.

Question 7

What’s the difference between a daycare and a preschool?

Accepted Answer

While both provide care for young children, a preschool focuses on early learning and development through a structured curriculum. Our play-based program is designed to support children’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth in a nurturing classroom environment.

Daycares typically provide more flexible, full-day care with a primary focus on supervision, whereas preschools, like Cornerstone, offer an educational experience that helps prepare children for kindergarten and beyond.

Question 8

What is "sweat equity"?

Accepted Answer

At Cornerstone, sweat equity means the time and effort families contribute to help our school thrive. Because we are a cooperative, parents play an active role in the day-to-day and behind-the-scenes operations of the preschool. This involvement keeps tuition affordable, strengthens our community, and enriches each child’s experience.

Examples of sweat equity: Taking care of an “Adopt-a-Spot” around the school (like mowing the grass, caring for the playground, picking weeds, etc.). Serving on the board or a committee. Bringing supplies to school parties. Pitching in with fundraisers and community events. There are many ways to contribute your time!

10 hours of sweat equity for the FALL semester. 
15 hours of sweaty equity for the SPRING/SUMMER semester.

Learn more about Sweat Equity here!

Question 9

What are some examples of the Adopt-A-Spot at the school?

Accepted Answer

Through our Adopt-A-Spot program, parents sign up for small upkeep tasks around the school. These jobs not only keep our environment fresh and cared for but also count toward your family’s sweat equity.

Some examples of Adopt-A-Spot tasks include:

Spreading mulch on the playground
Re-filling the sandbox
Mowing the grass
Raking leaves or tidying the porch
Soft toy and linen laundry
Changing out air filters

A sign-up list for Adopt-A-Spot opportunities will be available at the beginning of each school year, so families can choose what works best for them. Each family’s contributions, big or small, add up to a clean, safe, and happy space for our children.

Question 10

What is a "Parent Helper"?

Accepted Answer

At Cornerstone, parents play an active role in the classroom as part of our cooperative model. Families (except in the Toddler program) take turns serving as a “Parent Helper” in their child’s class, usually about once or twice a month.

As a Parent Helper, you’ll spend the day alongside your child—assisting teachers, helping with classroom routines, preparing a snack for your designated classroom, and engaging with the children. It’s a wonderful opportunity to share in your child’s preschool experience, get to know their classmates, and connect with other families.

This active participation is at the heart of what makes Cornerstone special. It strengthens our school community, gives children the joy of seeing their parents involved, and provides valuable support for our teachers.

Question 11

How does snack time work at Cornerstone?

Accepted Answer

Snack time is an important part of our daily routine and a chance for children to recharge and share food together.PDO/Toddlers class: Parents pack and label a snack for their own child each day.2s &3s and Pre-K classes: On the days when a parent serves as the classroom helper, they provide a snack for the whole class. We keep a list of allergies and dietary needs posted in each classroom to guide safe and inclusive choices. We encourage families to bring nutritious snacks that include at least two food groups. Special treats (like birthday goodies) are welcome, as long as they’re balanced with a healthy option.This shared snack approach is part of our cooperative model. It helps build community while teaching children about sharing, healthy eating, and caring for one another.

Question 12

What is the Parent Executive Board & Community Board at Cornerstone?

Accepted Answer

As a cooperative preschool, Cornerstone is overseen by a Parent Executive Board made up of volunteer parents each year. The Board works in partnership with the Director to guide the school’s operations, support teachers, and ensure our cooperative model runs smoothly.Board members hold specific roles such as:PresidentSecretaryIncome & Expense TreasurerFundraising CoordinatorMarketing CoordinatorMembership CoordinatorBuilding Manager Volunteer CoordinatorThose on the board help with decisions about finances, policies, and events. Serving on the Board is both a responsibility and a rewarding way for families to actively shape the school, share their talents, and strengthen connections within the Cornerstone community.Unlike the Parent Executive Board, which focuses on governance and decision-making, the Community Board supports the day-to-day needs of the school.The Community Board consists of:Special Events Coordinator Supplies CoordinatorScholastic CoordinatorWebmaster

Question 13

What is the Annual Pancake Supper at Cornerstone?

Accepted Answer

The Annual Pancake Supper is one of Cornerstone’s longest-running traditions! Families, teachers, alumni, and friends come together to enjoy a yummy pancake dinner while building community and celebrating our cooperative spirit. The event also serves as an important fundraiser, with proceeds helping us keep tuition affordable and support our preschool programs. Along with a delicious meal, families can participate in our online and silent auctions, featuring fun items and experiences donated by local businesses and our school community. It’s a fun, family-friendly evening that blends good food, music, and giving back to our school.

Question 14

Can Cornerstone support children with special needs?

Accepted Answer

Our preschool strives to provide children with special care needs the accommodations recommended by a health care professional or a qualified professional from the local school district or early childhood intervention program. Because we are a small, closely-staffed preschool, each situation is reviewed on a case-by-case basis to ensure we can meet a child’s needs safely and effectively. Our goal is to provide a supportive and inclusive environment while making sure every child receives the care and attention they require.

Question 15

When did Cornerstone Cooperative Preschool begin?

Accepted Answer

Cornerstone first opened its doors in 1971, originally known as Little Creek Preschool. It was founded by a group of parents and early-childhood teachers who wanted to create an affordable, play-based preschool where families could be actively involved in their children’s education.

Over the years, the school grew and changed locations, eventually becoming Cornerstone Cooperative Preschool. Today, more than 50 years later, we’re proud to continue that same tradition of play, discovery, and community that our founders envisioned.

Question 16

Is Cornerstone open during the summer?

Accepted Answer

We follow the Denton ISD calendar, so we do not hold our regular preschool classes during the summer months. However, we recently began offering a fun and engaging Summer Camp option for enrolled Cornerstone families.

Question 17

Where can I find important information about Cornerstone’s policies and procedures?

Accepted Answer

You can find the Parent Handbook on the Enroll page on our website under 'Family Commitment', which includes detailed information about our policies, procedures, and daily routines. We encourage parents to read it carefully and keep it handy as a reference throughout the year. Many families find it helpful to print out a copy so it’s easy to review and refer back to when questions come up. The handbook is a great resource to help you feel confident and informed as part of our cooperative community. If you can’t find the answer you need, please feel free to reach out to the Director with any questions.

Question 18

Do children take naps at school?

Accepted Answer

No. Because our school day is intentionally short, we do not have a designated nap time. Most children attend from 9:00am - 12:00pm, allowing them to return home for lunch and their regular afternoon nap or quiet time.

Question 19

Do teachers apply sunscreen or bug spray?

Accepted Answer

For safety and allergy reasons, Cornerstone staff do not apply sunscreen or bug spray to children. If you’re concerned about sun exposure or bug bites, please apply sunscreen or bug spray to your child before school. If you have additional questions or special concerns, feel free to reach out to the Director.

Where Parents Make the Difference

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