Make A Positive
Change In Your Child’s
Life Today.
Where Children Learn to Play and Play to Learn.
Franklin Park Co-Op Preschool's Philosophy
We are a developmentally appropriate "play school" where children learn both social, emotional and academic skills through hands on activities. Children will explore through getting dirty, wet, sandy, manipulating art supplies and using all 5 senses to explore the world around them.
We strive to create an atmosphere where children are nurtured with acceptance and kindness while developing a love of learning and excitement to participate.
Our environment supports, language and literacy development, math and science exploration, as well as art and music experiences.
What Parents Say
"Franklin Park Co-op is such a sweet, warm, nurturing environment that allows children the opportunity to grow and learn through play and creative activities and projects. Catherine, the director and a teacher at the school, is so thoughtful and kind and such a great resource for parents as well as the children because of her extensive background and knowledge of positive discipline. The other teacher, Linda, is also amazing and truly cares about each child. The school is not only an amazing learning environment, but a close-knit community of families. 2 of our 3 children have attended the preschool (and the 3rd will too once she is old enough!). I loved working in the classroom and seeing the children blossoming and interacting. I highly recommend this preschool and I really feel it was valuable to our family and helped foster confidence in our children that prepared them for kindergarten."
Read more"Our family decided to join a Co-op because we wanted to have a sense of community and grow with other parents on positive parenting. Our son is thriving in the Early Learners program and his communication skills have leveled up from this preschool. Ms. Catherine is the guru of positive parenting and Ms. Linda is the most patient and kind hearted. From making new mom and dad friends, to joining hands at fundraising events, this place is completely worthwhile. These teachers challenge me and show me that it's going to be ok and that I am not the lone parent that I thought I was. Thank goodness for this place. Franklin Park has been an experience that our family will benefit from for years to come."
Read more"Our families experience at Franklin Co-Op has been nothing short of amazing. The teachers (Catherine and Linda) are incredibly nurturing, patient, and dedicated to honoring each child's individuality. This very loving and open environment has helped foster my son's growth. Learning positive discipline has been a game-changer for our family it has helped us create a more peaceful and respectful home environment. Being part of a co-op has also been invaluable; meeting once a month listening to other parents' stories and strategies has given us a strong sense of community and so many practical tools. We are so grateful to be part of this wonderful school!"
Read more"I HIGHLY recommend Franklin Park Co-op Preschool! This is our third year at Franklin Park since my son started attending at age 2. He always looks forward to going to school, which speaks volumes about the warm, welcoming environment the teachers create. The co-op model has been such a valuable experience for us as a family. I've had the chance to be hands-on in the classroom and get to know the other children and parents. I've learned so much by observing how the teachers communicate with the children, setting clear boundaries and expectations while always respecting their individuality. I appreciate how clean, organized, and well-maintained the classroom is too. It truly shows the care and dedication of the teachers. I am so grateful for our experience at Franklin Park Co-op Preschool!"
Read more"We moved to Santa Rosa from out of state knowing little about the town and did not know a single person. We enrolled our son in preschool thinking it'd be a traditional preschool experience and there wouldn't be much more to it. We quickly realized Franklin Park Co-op is much more than a traditional preschool experience, and it became one of our most cherished parts of Santa Rosa. The teachers are beyond amazing and are extremely passionate about helping our children and families succeed. Through being in the classroom and going to monthly parent meetings, my family has learned so much about positive discipline; it has shaped our families relationship with each other for the better, as we can understand more of what our kids are thinking and going through and how to handle negative behaviors! The school itself is great and our son absolutely loved the outdoor play area. We loved that the curriculum is play based as there was so much for his imagination to explore! One of my favorite parts of Franklin Park is the community! Being a co-op, we get to meet, interact, and learn with the other students, parents and families. It was much more than parents just dropping their kids off at school—we now have lifelong friends thanks to the community at Franklin Park Co-op!"
Read moreUpcoming Events
Parent Meeting
6:30 - 7:45 PM. Attendance required (max 1 absence per year).
Monthly (date varies)Board Meeting
Check monthly calendar for specific dates and times.
Every other weekWork Days
8:20 AM - 12:30 PM. Per-family rotation schedule.
See monthly calendarField Trips & Events
Special outings and visitors noted on monthly calendars.
Gallery
Here are some pictures of the school's classroom, playground, and past event's.
Importance Of Parent Involvement
Our school is a unique opportunity to be intimately involved with your child's education. Studies indicate that this is an important indicator of student success. Being in your child's classroom on a consistent basis helps to creates a sense of significance and belonging in your children.
Your contribution in the classrooms is an important part of our preschool being a positive, loving and quality early childhood program. We love having parents bring their curriculum ideas and life experience to expand our learning environment.
In a co-op preschool, you will get to know your child's friends, and their families, and have the opportunity to be a part of a community as well as develop life-long friendships homes.
Our Board of Directors are parents elected by the parent membership. They are responsible for decisions related to the running of the program and upholding the by-laws of our non-profit status.
A co-op is created by people who work together towards a common goal. In our case, all families, along with our educated and experienced teachers, contribute to ensure the school runs safely and efficiently.
Meet our Director, Teacher,
and current Board Members
Meet The Whole Board
Meet our Director, Teachers, and current board members who are parents and members that make Franklin Park co-op Possible
Catherine McCracken-Jones
Director - Early Learners TeacherLinda Carter
Pre-K Teacher
Kyle Surlow
Board President
Timothy Hughes
Vice President
Claudia Barahona
Early Learners Class Rep
Kara DeFreitas
Pre K Class Rep
Colleen Curley
FundraisingHolly Michelle
Treasurer