Our Mission and Values
Our mission and values articulate what is most important to our organization.
Mission
Ruth Washburn Cooperative Nursery School (RWCNS) is a nonprofit preschool dedicated to educating and nurturing children in an enriching play-based environment and engaging families in a supportive community.
– RWCNS Mission
Core Values
At RWCNS, we value:
The nursery school years as unique and important
A “whole child” approach to early childhood education wherein emotional, physical, social, and cognitive needs are equally significantly
Equitable learning opportunities that are tailored to each child’s needs
An inclusive school environment that embraces diversity
Child-directed learning that happens organically in enriched environments
Our role as leaders in early childhood education
Families and their contributions to classrooms and the school community
We embody these values by:
Trusting the nursery school model, knowing that developmentally-appropriate play is the best preparation for future schooling
Encouraging children to choose and direct their own work by providing engaging materials, open-ended opportunities, outdoor exploration, and interactions with peers
Attending to emotional, physical, social, and cognitive needs with equal care and attention
Modeling caring interactions that teach children to identify and meet their own needs
A “whole child” approach to early childhood education wherein emotional, physical, social, and cognitive needs are equally significantly
Embracing the cooperative community model to provide the richest, most caring environment possible for children and their families
Providing ongoing opportunities for family education and support
Sponsors
Thank you to our generous sponsors, whose financial support funds scholarships, facilities improvements, and continuing education for teachers.