We would like parents to spend from two to three hours at the Center with their child before the child comes to the center alone. This helps make your child's first experience at our Center a pleasant one. It also gives you an opportunity to get to know the staff. We encourage you to set up a series of "mini" visits. Short stays help your child gain trust in the staff and become familiar with the surroundings. If possible, we encourage both parents to accompany the child during these "mini" visits.
Contact The Program coordinator for more information on programs or to schedule your tour.
A letter from one of our parents who volunteers in the class two times a week-June 2009 (A FMPS Co-op parent)
As with any co-op preschool, the main advantage is that as a parent, I get to work with my child in school and be part of the education process. As a result, my child anticipates school every morning with great excitement, asking: "Do I get to go to school today?"
It is so satisfying that there is no stressful separation as we say goodbye for the morning, and even greater joy on the days I participate in the classroom as the teacher's aid.
My child is excelling at learning his colors, shapes, alphabet and numbers, taking instruction from an authority figure, learning respect and cooperation .
The teachers are fantastic. They have amazing patience and skill to handle the group of children that are being socialized in the skills that will ground them for the up coming school years. The facility itself is unique as the school has a natural playground and barn yard animals, also the class rooms feel very comfortable not institutional.
The kids have had numerous field trips exposing them to so many new experiences, with trips to uptown Charlotte, a field trips to the library and grocery store,from making their own pizza on cooking day to going on a hay ride at the pumpkin patch. Speakers such as a policeman, and the k-9 unit and even a bi-monthly visit by the book mobile. I have helped children with arts and crafts projects to develop coordination and fine motor individually, working at the child's pace,while doing something enjoyable. Bottom line... it is obvious the kids are having fun learning.
The teachers work with each child challenging them without causing stress. We are so lucky to have found this place. Their pricing was very reasonable , and I would even say, I would pay a premium if I had to.... the program has been that good for our child.
Thanks Again to those at FMPS!!!
Laura Layne-Co-op Parent 2009/2010
A note from the Director about our Co-op part of the school:
The benefits of a Cooperative Preschool, for children, are countless. "One of the most obvious things is that kids get used to working with adults and trusting adults...they also learn to see everyone as teachers - not just their teacher! It really shows them a broader world." After teaching in a private preschool for five years, I was interested in the inner workings of a cooperative preschool. The sense of ownership and community is a wonderful aspect of being a part of a co-op. I feel like I get to know not only the children in the school, but their families as well. The fact that the care and upkeep of the school and its property is the responsibility of the families enrolled in the program makes us all appreciate and care for the school that much more."
Ms. Christine Welcome to the start of a great school year! First let me start by introducing myself to those of you who may not have had a chance to meet me. My name is Christine Boatwright. This is my ninth year as owner of Fort Mill Prep. School. This year we have a pilot program starting as we venture to become a cooperative preschool. As I feel so grateful to have such a wonderful school for the children of York County and I really enjoy being a part of their first school experience. Please do not feel uncomfortable contacting me with questions, concerns, suggestions, ideas or whatever you may need. The Admin Team always does a great job of taking care of things if I am not at the school for some reason. For those of you who are new to the school please remember that coop training will be scheduled as parents are chosen to participate in the coop program. So please let us know if you are interested. I hope all of our children get off to a great start this school year, and I look forward to seeing you all through out the year.
A Letter for the new school Year
As an owner, it is my job to keep the school running from an administrative perspective. Please know that I am here to address anything that you may want to at anytime. Think of me like you would the Mom/Grandmom of the family.
(The FMPS Family)
While cooping is not a complicated undertaking, this is your opportunity to learn about the school. It will certainly make everyone's life easier if we all know how to help each other in the classroom, so please make every effort to attend these important sessions.
Sincerely,
Ms.Christine
