Maple Seeds Preschool Cooperative
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.
Q&A with Maple Seeds Preschool Cooperative
What makes Maple Seeds 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 ages and grade levels does Maple Seeds serve?
Our students range in age from 2 to 5 years old.
What is the enrollment process, and are there any key dates families should know?
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, and does Maple Seeds offer flexible schedules or before- and after-school care?
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.
Does Maple Seeds offer support for children 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.
What enrichment programs and activities does Maple Seeds offer?
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 Maple Seeds’ 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.
What is Maple Seeds’ 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.
How many children are in each class, and how are they grouped?
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-to-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 teachers’ 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 parent 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 families, and how often do they send 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.
How much time do children spend outside?
At least half an hour each day, depending on the weather.
Are meals 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.
Who should families contact for more information about Maple Seeds?
Contact [email protected] or 317-767-3003 to connect with us, schedule a tour and learn about upcoming open houses.
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