Drayton Avenue Cooperative Preschool

Drayton Avenue Cooperative Preschool is a developmental, play-based preschool program located in Ferndale, Michigan. We serve children aged 2, 3, and 4 and are proud to be a state-licensed, non-denominational, and non-discriminatory school. At DACP, we believe that parents play a crucial role in shaping their child's first school experience. That's why we offer a unique cooperative program where parents work in the classroom alongside the teacher and see their child's social and academic development first-hand. By becoming part of our community of parents, you will not only be involved in your child's education but also contribute to the daily operation of the preschool.

What is a Cooperative Preschool?

A cooperative preschool is owned and operated by parents. Parents work in the classroom alongside the teacher and children, and an Executive Board of parents elected by co-op members oversees the day-to-day operation of the preschool. Being a co-op allows us to keep our tuition low while offering a unique, high-quality program. DACP is a proud member of the Greater Detroit Co-Operative Nursery Council, Inc. (GDCNC).

What is a Play-Based Curriculum?

At Drayton Avenue Cooperative Preschool, we believe that play is children's work. It's how they discover and learn about the world. That's why we offer a play-based curriculum, where children are encouraged to make decisions, think critically, and become self-reliant. Our program allows children the opportunity to make choices and think independently in a developmentally appropriate setting, equipping them with valuable skills they will use for the rest of their lives.

Classes

Drayton offers classes for three age groups. Children must be of class age (2, 3, or 4 years old) by September 1st of the current year to be eligible for a class in their age group. Our class schedule is as follows:

• Parent/Tot Program: Wednesdays from 9:30 am to 11:00 am (a parent stays with the child during school)
• AM Class Program: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:00 am to 11:30 am (for 3-year-olds)
• Pre-K Program: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm (for 4-year-olds)

Our annual tuition for each class is an estimate, as tuition is raised by 1-2% annually. Here are the current tuition rates:

• Parent/Tot: $439.92
• AM Class (3-yr-old): $965.80
• Pre-K Class (4-yr-old): $1,550.76

Teachers

Our teachers are dedicated professionals who are passionate about early childhood education.

• Mrs. Fuller: Julie Fuller has been the head teacher at DACP since 1999. Prior to being the teacher here, she was a parent of the co-op (her two daughters went here) and a board member. Mrs. Fuller attended Western Michigan University and got her degree in Elementary Education and Theatre Education. She loves kids and enjoys performing with community theaters and creating her own jewelry when not teaching.
• Mrs. Stanton: Kim Stanton is a Ferndale resident and has always enjoyed working with children. She attended Siena Heights University and graduated in 1995 with her degree in Early Childhood Education. She enjoys working with young children and watching them grow and learn.