MSPC is a play-based program centered around the philosophy that children, parents and teachers learn from each other. Through a purposefully planned environment, we carefully nurture each child’s social, emotional, and cognitive development based on the Indiana Foundation for Young Children standards.
Phone: 317-767-3003
Address: 3030 Kessler Blvd East Dr. Indianapolis, IN 46220
Website: www.mapleseeds.org
Q&A with Maple Seeds Preschool Cooperative
What makes Maple Seeds Preschool Cooperative unique?
Maple Seeds Preschool Cooperative has been serving the families of Indianapolis for over 65 years. Our parents and teachers are passionate about continuing the legacy of MSPC (previously named Meridian Street Preschool Cooperative) and the values it has been able to impart on hundreds of children over the years.
The cooperative preschool model builds community for the students in the classroom, as well as for the parents. Families often form friendships over their years at preschool together.
What is your Maple Seeds Preschool Cooperative’s educational philosophy?
Play-based, Reggio Emilia, Cooperative
We believe play is the “work” of children and that parents and children learn together through play. We provide a wide range of play areas and activities that allow children to direct their own free play. Freedom of choice enhances the complete development of the child and encourages curiosity. Children are also encouraged to express their feelings, both positive and negative, with words. Through our group activities, children learn to respect each other, control their bodies, and develop good listening skills.
What is your Maple Seeds Preschool Cooperatives age/grade range?
Our students range in age from 2 to 5 years old.
What is your enrollment policy? Are there any key dates parents should be aware of?
Upcoming open houses will be held on January 17th at 6pm (virtually on Zoom) and January 18th from 6-7pm (in person). Open enrollment begins on January 19, 2024 at 8am. Contact [email protected] or call 317.767.3003 to schedule an in-person tour.
What are the standard school day hours? Does your school offer flexible day/hour options? Is before/after school care available?
MSPC has a traditional school schedule and we are closed for the summer. Our school year begins following Labor Day and ends prior to Memorial Day.
Standard school day hours are 9:30am-1:30pm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays and 9:30am-11:45am Tuesdays and Fridays. Each class meets 2-3 days a week and has different days and hours depending on the class.
How many children are in each class? How are children divided up?
Children are divided up by age:
- 2-3 year old classes: Maximum of 8 children per class (2 classes available)
- 3-4 year old class: Maximum of 15 children
- 4-5 year old class: Maximum of 16 children
What is the teacher/child ratio?
- 2-3 year old classes: 1 adult to 4 children
- 3-4 year old class: 1 adult to 5 children
- 4-5 year old class: 1 adult to 6 children
What are the teacher’s credentials?
All of our teachers have co-op parent experience and cooperative preschool executive board experience. Our 4 and 5 year old class teacher has an education degree and elementary school teaching experience. Another teacher is a published children’s author.
Is parental participation required?
Yes. Families play an active role in their children’s learning. Every cooperative family commits to assisting in the classroom on a rotating basis. Depending on the age of your child, this works out to about once every 3-4 weeks. Families also have a job within the co-op and assist with tasks such as cleaning and fundraising.
How do teachers communicate with parents? How often do parents receive updates?
Teachers communicate in person before and after classes, all day with the co-oping parents, during orientation and parent teacher conferences, and by text as needed. Parents also receive online weekly updates and monthly newsletters.
Does Maple Seeds Preschool Cooperative offer support for students with special needs?
We strive to meet children where they are. If it becomes obvious that a child needs more than we can provide, our teachers can offer guidance for outside resources if needed.
How much time do the children spend outside?
At least half an hour each day, depending on the weather.
Are meals and/or snacks provided?
- 2-3 year old classes: snacks are provided by co-oping parent
- 3-4 year old class: snacks are provided by co-oping parent and lunch is brought from home
- 4-5 year old class: snacks are provided by co-oping parent and lunch is brought from home
Does my child need to be potty-trained?
No. Teachers are available to assist through this process.
What enrichment programs/activities are offered?
MSPC offers librarian visits, music classes and story time from special visitors and children’s book authors. The 4 and 5 year old class also has yoga classes and takes field trips.
What are your school’s safety policies?
It is MSPC’s goal to do what is in our power to keep our children safe. We have policies in place in line with the Indiana Council of Preschool Cooperatives in regards to background checks, health policies, building safety and weapons policies. There are also planned fire and tornado drills conducted throughout the year.
Who should parents contact for more information about Maple Seeds Preschool Cooperative?
Contact [email protected] or 317-767-3003 to connect with us, schedule a tour and learn about upcoming open houses.
