Thursday, 5 September 2013

Registration still open: It's not too late to join Pearson Co-op!

Pearson Community Co-op Nursery School still has a few spots remaining in our 3 morning (3am) and 2pm (two afternoon) programs for this September. We're a top ranked nursery school in Burlington and we'd love to welcome your family!

Look at our fabulous school grounds and imagine your child learning and playing here!





If you would like more registration information, all Registration information is here on our main website. Or you can contact the school at 905-335-2385 or by email at: membership@pearsoncoop.com

Sunday, 1 September 2013

Meet our 2013-2014 Pearson Board of Directors

As a Co-op school, the Board of Directors play an important role in the running of our school. The Board represents the parents and best interest of the students.

What are the Roles & Responsibilities of the Board of Directors?

  • The BoD is comprised of elected members of Pearson. ("Elected" means we volunteer for the role but are voted in by the Co-op membership the previous year)
  • The BoD is responsible for the management and administration of Pearson and its staff.
  • The BoD must abide by the by-laws and resolutions as determined by the general membership and all applicable legislation. The BoD will set policy and procedure for the school.
The Board meets monthly to discuss all school business and the minutes of these meetings are shared transparently on the Pearson parent section of the website for all parents/Co-op members to review. The 4 General Meetings we hold every school year provide the membership the opportunity to vote and interact directly with the Board.

We'd like to introduce you to our Board of Directors so you feel as engaged as possible in the running of our school. Please introduce yourself to the BoD especially if they are a parent in your child's class. The BoD welcomes input and can take feedback to our monthly meetings for discussion. Please remember all members of the board are volunteer parents in the school participating in these roles on a part-time basis.

2013-2014
Chairperson: Diana Dunnell (RTL)
1st Vice: Tammy Michener (2am)
2nd Vice: Courtney Potter (RTL)
Treasurer: Kristi Meagher (RTL)
Assistant Secretary: Ann-Marie Burton (RTL)
Recording Secretary: Alicia Moffat (2am)
Membership Secretary: Liz Woloshin (RTL)
Member at Large (Co-op/PCCA): Meghan Bower (2am)
Fundraising: Janice Barker (RTL)

Diana Dunnell: Chairperson



Tammy Michener: 1st Vice
My name is Tammy Michener and I'll be filling the position of First Vice on the Board this year.  Anna is my third child to attend Pearson Nursery School in the 2am class.  We obviously love Pearson which is why we keep coming back!   I love the amazing playground, and the emphasis on outdoor play.  The size of the classrooms is great, giving the kids plenty of room to explore and participate in all the wonderful activities.  There is always an amazing craft to take part in and a nutritious snack which is great.  But what really makes Pearson top notch is the teaching staff - with their high energy, loving nature and patience, they help prepare our kids for their first years in elementary school.  And last but certainly not least, it is the families at Pearson that make it such a wonderful Nursery School.  We've made many friends over the years, and some great memories to cherish.


 Courtney Potter: 2nd Vice
My name is Courtney Potter, and I am the second vice chairperson on this year's executive committee. I learned about Pearson through a good friend who sent her son there. As a result of her positive experiences, I knew it was a great fit for my boys. Jacob attended the Ready to Learn program last year, and this year it is Lucas' turn. Jacob loved his time at Pearson. He learned so much,  and came out of his shell in a big way. Lucas is very excited and can't wait for school to start. I am personally looking forward to being a large part of helping with the day-to-day administration of the school.


Kristi Meagher: Treasurer
My name is Kristi Meagher and I am the Treasurer for the 2013/2014 school year.  I am excited and looking forward to being on the board for Pearson Nursery School.  My daughter attended Pearson last year in the 2 pm class and will be attending the RTL program this year.  One of the things about the school that impressed me was that the parents do have the opportunity to be so involved in the school.  I was an on duty parent and found so much joy in having the opportunity to explore and learn right a long with my daughter.  I also loved that the 2 pm class has a French program.  The teachers are amazing with a sincere love of teaching. My daughter and I are super excited for all of the life experiences and learning to come our way this next school year at Pearson!


Ann-Marie Burton: Assistant Secretary
Each of our three children has attended Pearson - we love it here! Our family has been enrolled in the 2am and 2pm classes, both duty and non-duty and all programs have been fabulous. Megan graduated from the 2am program last year and is now returning into the RTL program. I'm excited to see the RTL program in action and watch our daughter learn and develop even more in the Pearson classroom. Last year I was on the Board as the Member at Large and found it both rewarding and eye-opening to see the details of how the school is run. I am so impressed with the leadership from Fiona as Supervisor and dedication of  the volunteer Board and incredible teaching staff. Pearson has provided my children with excellent  kindergarten prep and I know our final year here will be a bittersweet one for us. As the Assistant Secretary, my main role on the BoD is to manage the Advertising & Promotion of the school and I'm excited to develop this blog, our new social media channels and help ensure that every parent in Burlington knows that Pearson is the best nursery school in town!


Alicia Moffat: Recording Secretary
My name is Alicia Moffat and my daughter Lylah is participating in the 2am class this year.  This is my third child that has attended Pearson, and we have loved every experience so far!  I love how Pearson feels like home for the kids and I, and that everyone here feels like family.  I saw so much growth and development in my girls during their time here at Pearson, and felt like the teachers really helped them prepare for school...and with full day kindergarten, that was really important to us.  My position on the Board this year  is Recording Secretary and I am looking forward to the 2013/2014 school year!


Liz Woloshin: Membership Secretary
My name is Liz Woloshin and I am the membership secretary at Pearson.  My daughter's name is Katie and she is in the RTL program this year.  This is our fourth year at Pearson - my son came for 2 years and now this will be my daughter's second year.  It has been such a wonderful experience for all of us and I really love being involved with the preschool!  Looking forward to another fantastic year!


Meghan Bower: Member at Large
I am the current Member at Large for Pearson Nursery School's Board for the 2013/14 school year. My daughter will be attending Pearson in the 2am program, starting this fall. My son attended the same 2am program the year before. Pearson was recommended to me by a friend. Last year was my first experience with the school and I have only good things to report. I adore the teachers and administrators at Pearson School. They create such a fantastic educational and nurturing environment for pre-school children to learn and grow in. Having watched her older brother being dropped off at school twice a week last school year, my daughter is extremely excited to be starting in September. I look forward to another wonderful school year.

Janice Barker: Fundraising
I am thrilled for our second school year at Pearson as my daughter Fiona returns in September, this year for the RTL program. I am also happy to be on the board this year as Fundraiser, and look forward to coordinating the annual silent auction in November. Pre-Fiona I worked in marketing, but love my new job as stay-at-home momma to my energetic little read head. Here's to another great year at the best pre-school in Burlington!!

Saturday, 31 August 2013

What School Supplies do we need for Pearson Nursery School?

It's back to school season and school supplies are on sale everywhere! What does your child need for Pearson Nursery School? Your list for Pearson is actually very simple and short.



1. A Waterproof Backpack
Plan to bring the backpack everyday to school. It should be size appropriate (no need for a giant one for your tiny preschooler) but large enough to take home artwork each day. It also needs to hold a full set of spare clothes each day. Please label this backpack.

2. Indoor shoes
Comfortable running shoes or soft-soled shoes must be worn in the classroom for safety. No boots, flipflops or crocs can be worn in the classroom so it's best to pack running shoes in the backpack everyday. When we start in the fall, shoes worn to school may also be worn in the classroom, changing into "indoor" shoes comes more into play when boot weather persists. Label all shoes and boots!

3. Comfortable Play Clothes
Children learn best when they are comfortable and aren't restricted by clothing. We get messy at school with sensory and creative play so send your children to school in clothes they can learn and play in best

4. Appropriate Outdoor Clothing
We play outside everyday - even in the snow and rain. Please ensure your children are sent to school with clothes appropriate for the weather - warm coats, raincoats, boots, mitts etc. Please ensure all items are labeled with their names. Splashpants are great to have in the fall and spring so children can have as much fun on the playground as possible.


Do you notice we keep on referencing labels and names on everything? At preschool, we see many pairs of black splashpants or yellow rubber boots. If they are labeled it helps your child identify their items and means they don't hit the lost and found. Mabels Labels holds a fundraiser for Pearson and a % of their proceeds comes back to the school when you order labels from them. Click here to order and fund raise for the school in one spot: http://pearson.mabelslabels.com/http://pearson.mabelslabels.com/

Friday, 30 August 2013

Meet Pearson's 2013-2014 Chairperson of the Board



My name is Diana Dunnell, Chairperson for 2013-14 and on behalf of the Executive Board, I would like to welcome you to Pearson Co-operative Nursery School!

Pearson was mentioned to me by friends and parents in the community, but only after having my second child so we never had the opportunity for our first to attend.  While considering the options, Pearson kept coming up and everyone was so pleased with the learning experience provided to their child.  They had nothing but positive comments!  We are extremely pleased to have our daughter, Kyera, enrolled in the upcoming RTL program.

Every child and every parent play an integral part in the success of the school so once again, welcome, and I look forward to working with you to create a memorable 2013/14 school year!


Diana chairs our parent board at Pearson Community Co-operative Nursery School. At our General Meetings you will be introduced to Diana and the rest of the board and learn about the process of running our co-op school. Feel free to reach out to Diana or anyone on the board if you questions.

Tuesday, 18 June 2013

To Pearson with love (from an almost 'past' parent)

Four years ago when my son first came to Pearson, I had hoped he would have some fun and hopefully learn a few things along the way.  I didn't realize then that joining the Pearson Community would have such an incredible impact on our whole family.  

Not only were all 3 of my children able to experience the warm, nurturing, creative and stimulating environment that Pearson provides.  They were cared for, encouraged and guided by our three amazing teachers; Fiona, Johanna and Allison.  I watched each of my children reach their potential in their own special way through an amazing curriculum and many unplanned "teachable moments". 

As our Pearson journey comes to an end, it is an understatement to say that we will all miss being a part of this incredible community.  Our family will always be truly grateful for all of the beautiful memories and lasting friendships we will take with us!  Thank you Pearson, it really was "a beary nice place to be"! xoxo

Goodbye Pearson!

Tuesday, 11 June 2013

Parent Testimonials for Pearson Community Co-op School

Making the decision about which nursery school to pick doesn't always feel like an easy decision. So many factors to weigh out from learning style, schedule, the classroom atmosphere even to price and availability.

Pearson Community Co-op Nursery School has been running for over 35 years and is one of the most respected and well-run schools in Burlington. We have a long line of  "alumni" (both past parents and past children) with wonderful memories and experiences with our Pearson  education and culture.

Recently we asked current and past parents for their thoughts about Pearson and we received overwhelmingly positive feedback - so much that we have to share with you. Once you hear from other parents you can understand how much of a positive affect Pearson has had on their family's life.


"Pearson gave all of my children the BEST start they could possibly have before entering the school system! The school is constantly evolving according to the voice of every parent and child that attends. I've been on the Executive Board for 3 years and I can say with confidence that Pearson is run professionally and fair in every aspect imaginable. I'm not sure who misses Pearson more.. me or the kids!"
Caroline

"I have had 2 children at Pearson, with a third one coming up. She will be there for 2 years, and I actually made my 'back to work' schedule with her upcoming Pearson days in mind because there is no way I could not send her! The amount of caring and thought that the staff put into every aspect of the children's day is amazing. I love being a duty parent, and everyone feels like they are part of the team...we are all there for the kids. It is a place filled with so much love and laughter, I feel truly blessed and privileged that myself and children have been able to be a part of the Pearson family for so many years I might just keep having kids so I don't have to leave, lol!!"
Alicia

 
"This is my third year in a row with Pearson. I love being involved in a co-p nursery school. It has given me a chance to spend quality time playing with my children and watching them grow and learn. They always looked forward to when "mommy was on her duty shift". I've met some of the best kids and parents through this program and we will remain friends for a very long time."
Kathryn


"We've had 3 kids at Pearson and love it! Wonderful, caring staff & incredible parent volunteers all enhance the creative, play-based preschool curriculum. We love the big & bright duo classrooms with many centres for play and the big outdoor playground for gross motor activity. LOVE Pearson! We're coming back for a 4th year next to try the RTL program next!"
Ann-Marie

"I can't say enough about the wonderful staff at Pearson. My daughter has required some extra patience and understanding and she definitely got it! She has gone from crying and chewing on her fingers with anxiety to confidently going to school and is beginning to explore more and more. I have no doubt that her experience at Pearson will ease her transition to Junior Kindergarten in the Fall. The communication and willingness to work with parents for the good of the child is second to none at Pearson."

Jen 

"I would totally do it - not a parent though, just an impressed Aunt!!! GREAT program with AMAZINGLY AWESOME staff!"
Aunt Mandy

 
"I love Pearson...but most important my son loves his Nursery School! The staff is so caring and really puts 110% into teaching the children and making sure its a great environment for kids to grow in! I love the structure and all the children there are so pleasant to be around! I am so thankful that my son has a great group of kids to play, learn and grow with!"
Lisa


"My son (2011/2012 year) gained so much confidence and learned an incredible amount from the RTL program, so much effort put into each day and I absolutely loved all the art work that came home on a daily basis, so much more than I have seen to-date in JK! I am counting the days/months until I can put my younger son in this program and preschool!!"
Amanda 

"We loved the kindness and caring of Pearson's teachers and and the positive and fun learning environment. My son loved it there. But I would also like to mention the benefits for the parents - being new to Burlington, I was so pleased with the welcoming and friendliness of the other parents and met one of my best friends on one of the preschool committees. Pearson has benefits for the whole family."
Rosalyn


"The best preschool teachers in Burlington and a great community of families. Under the caring guidance of Fiona, Allison, Joanna and others, all three of my children were able to further develop their imagination, creativity and critical thinking skills to help them be enthusiastic learners and successful students in kindergarten and beyond. I am so grateful for the experience we all have had."
Hannah

Space Available at Burlington's Pearson Nursery School for Fall 2013


Curious how to register for Burlington's best nursery school???

Click here for our full Registration Package  - we still have some spaces available for the 2013-2014 year!! Join our fabulous school and welcoming parent community that Pearson offers.

Your registration package includes:
Please call the school at 905-335-2385 or email Liz at membership@pearsonco-op.com for information on registration.