El Cerrito Preschool Cooperative

El Cerrito Preschool Cooperative offers opening group time, free play, large group time, small group time, backyard play, open-ended art projects, science and cooking projects, and a healthy snack in its AM Program and PM Program. It also offers a lunch hour, extended care, and a limited 5-week summer camp program.

At a glance

• Ages: 2–5 years old
• General schedule: School year runs mid-August through Early June; summer break includes a limited 5-week summer camp program. Morning, lunch, afternoon, and extended care options are offered.

About the provider

El Cerrito Preschool Cooperative has served families in the greater Bay Area community since 1940 and is celebrating 85 years. It is a non-profit, parent-run preschool with licensed and trained staff, and parents assist professional teachers in the classroom on a weekly basis. Each family also shares in the school’s business operation through family jobs and maintenance parties, and special guests and parents share skills in special presentations.

• AM Program — Children ages 2 years, 9 months old by September 1st through 5 years · 8:30am – 12 noon · Typical morning activities include opening group time, free play, large group time, small group time, backyard play, open-ended art projects, science and cooking projects, and a healthy snack.
• PM Program — Children ages 2 years, 9 months old by September 1st through 5 years · 1pm – 4:30pm · Typical afternoon activities include opening group time, free play, large group time, small group time, backyard play, open-ended art projects, science and cooking projects, and a healthy snack.
• Lunch Hour — 12 noon – 1pm · Children are expected to bring a lunch from home, with teachers and parents available to facilitate.
• Extended Care — AM: 8am – 8:30am; PM: 4:30pm – 5pm · Extended care is available in the morning and afternoon.
• Summer Camp Program — Children ages 2 years, 9 months old by September 1st through 5 years · 9am – 1pm · Limited 5-week summer camp program offered during the summer break.

Minimum schedule is 3 days per week. Children should be 2 years, 9 months old by September 1st. Families interested in enrollment must take a tour during a typical school day. Application fee is $45. Non-refundable registration fee and separate refundable security deposit are required at enrollment.

Last updated October 10, 2026.