A Community of Learning
In our cooperative preschool we strive to create an inviting atmosphere of healthy respect for one another, for our materials, and for the spaces we use. We work to design a place where children, teachers, and parents research and learn together. We seek an atmosphere of comfort, fairness and acceptance. By fostering a safe environment for children and adults, families should feel a sense of ownership and belonging. We work together with understanding and seek ways to learn from one another.
Welcome to the Classroom
An inviting space with toys and activities carefully chosen to encourage the development of problem solving and fine motor skills. Kenilworth Community Preschool believes that children learn best through play. In our classroom, students can explore science concepts, build with blocks, read, write, draw and initiate dramatic play. Beautiful all-wood tables provide new opportunities for exploration with ever changing daily invitations, including a rotation of puzzles, play dough and games . There is a meeting space for circle-time activities, a sensory bin, and a reading loft for kids who need a quiet moment.
Welcome to the Art Studio
A creative space where children can work with clay, paper, paints, “loose parts,” and a variety of other art materials. Our school environment is set up to provoke a student’s interests. We encourage our students to explore their unique ideas and forge their own creations. In the art studio, Teacher Allisen often models a technique or use of materials, and the process is then the child’s to explore and apply.
Welcome to the Playground & Outdoor Classroom
A safe, fenced-in space with room to run, jump, climb and imagine. Our play space features a willow branch playhouse, a covered sandbox, and an Outdoor Classroom building that houses tools and toys, to which the children have free access. We’ve also built garden boxes where students can learn first hand about starting seeds and growing food.
Our school understands the importance of physical activity and believes children should play outside, every day, rain or shine. Our philosophy is that there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad gear. In truly inclement conditions, a large room within the church is available for indoor play.
In 2019, thanks to the hard work of parents, we received a grant to purchase a set of outdoor blocks. We’ve loved seeing the phenomenal and complex designs our students have been able to create together. Their imaginations and ingenuity are truly amazing.
Welcome to the Traffic Playground
A miniature city, complete with stop signs, crosswalks, bike lanes and buildings. In the summer of 2020 our community partnered with Portland Bureau of Transportation’s Safe Routes to School program to install a traffic playground in the church’s underutilized parking lot. This traffic playground has allowed our students to learn the rules of the road, away from street traffic. Since in-person classes have resumed, our students have occasionally enjoyed this unique play space together. During non class hours, all are welcome to visit and explore our little town, by foot or on wheels.
