What is Sweat Equity at Cornerstone Cooperative Preschool?

One of the most unique parts of our school is our cooperative model, where families play an active role in keeping our school thriving. Instead of relying only on tuition and staff, we depend on the talents, time, and creativity of our families. This model keeps our tuition affordable and gives parents a chance to be deeply connected to their child’s early education experience. We call this commitment sweat equity.

Tidying up the front yard.

To keep our cooperative model strong, each family contributes 10 hours in the fall semester and 15 hours in the spring semester (completed by July 31). Families track and log their own hours online, so everyone’s contributions are counted.

The Great Mulch Drop of 2025

What Does Sweat Equity Mean?

Sweat equity is the contribution of time, effort, and skills that families give to support the preschool. It’s a hands-on way to invest in your child’s education and the well-being of the school as a whole.

Think of it as trading hours of meaningful involvement for lower tuition. Rather than writing a bigger check, families pitch in with tasks that help the school function smoothly. And because every family is different, there are many ways to contribute, whether you’re crafty, organized, or simply willing to roll up your sleeves.

Examples of Sweat Equity

Families at Cornerstone bring their strengths and ideas into the school in ways that make a real impact. Here are some examples of what sweat equity can look like:

• Classroom Support

  • Bringing supplies for crafts or activities.

  • Lending a hand during special events and celebrations.

  • Outside errands.

• Fundraising & Events

  • Supporting North Texas Giving Day or other fundraisers by sharing posts, making calls, or inviting friends to give.

  • Helping organize events like Messy Art Day or holiday parties.

  • Securing donation matches or asking local businesses for sponsorships.

  • Setup/ tear down parties.

• Maintenance & Organization

  • Assisting with playground upkeep and small repair projects.

  • Organizing supplies, donations, or storage closets.

  • Helping with yard work, mowing/weeding.

  
  

• Creative Talents

  • Baking snacks or treats for fundraisers.

  • Sewing projects requested by teachers

  • Making homemade play dough.

  • Participating in 'community circle' by sharing any musical talents with the class.

    
    

• Other

  • Attending monthly Parent Board meetings

  • Additional 'Cleaning Day' participation

  • Taking on another parent's 'Parent Helper' day when they're unable to be there.

  • Time spent tending an 'Adopt-a-Spot'.

  • Taking unwanted items to Thrift For Good in Denton and designating our school as your charity of choice when you drop off items. We’ll receive 25% of the proceeds!

    
    

And remember — these are just a few examples! The opportunities and ideas are endless. How can you help?

Example of a party signup sheet.

Executive Board Service = Sweat Equity Opportunities

Because board roles involve regular responsibilities, meetings, and decision-making, they provide many opportunities to fulfill (and often exceed!) your sweat equity hours. From maintaining our website as webmaster to giving school tours as the membership coordinator, board service touches every part of our community. Not only does serving on the board meet your family’s sweat equity requirement, it also gives you a meaningful voice in how our preschool grows and flourishes.

Why Sweat Equity Matters

Every hour contributed by families reduces costs, strengthens our programs, and creates a warm, connected community where everyone has a role. Most importantly, sweat equity allows parents to be part of their child’s learning journey in a meaningful way. Families get to know their child’s classmates, teachers, and fellow parents. That sense of connection and teamwork is one of the biggest gifts of the cooperative model.

The Cornerstone Difference

By choosing a cooperative preschool, you’re choosing a place where your involvement truly matters. You’re not just paying for childcare, you’re investing in a community that values hands-on learning, strong family partnerships, and keeping quality education accessible for all.