For over 35 years, Dietrich Johnson Cooperative Nursery School (DJCNS) has created a learning environment dedicated to the social, emotional, intellectual and physical growth of children aged 2 1/2 to 5. Our goal at DJCNS is to recognize the unique qualities and individuality of our students, by providing developmentally appropriate activities and materials. In addition, the school focuses on finding ways to promote the growth of each child’s self-esteem and to help each child become successful and happy both as an individual and as a member of a group.

DJCNS is located in the heart of Princeton, NJ, in the basement of the Nassau Presbyterian Church. Our school is non-denominational and welcomes families from all backgrounds and beliefs.

DJCNS is a New Jersey Nonprofit Corporation and is licensed by the state of New Jersey and is accredited by the National Academy of Early Childhood Programs, a division of the National Association for the Education of Young Children.

PARENT INVOLVEMENT

DJCNS encourages parents to become actively involved in their child’s earliest education experience. As a cooperative nursery school, DJCNS is governed by a Board of Directors consisting of parents and teachers. Every family attending the school must participate in the Cooperative Program which consists of the following annual activities:

• Assisting in the classroom as a “Helping Parent” on a regularly scheduled basis

• Performing ten maintenance hours per child

• Participating in the planning and execution of at least one special event (Pizza Night, Craft Fair, Pancake Breakfast, Music Morning, End-of-Year Picnic)

• Attending a parents meeting in the fall and one clean-up maintenance day

Maintenance hours are earned by volunteering for various activities throughout the school year, substituting for teachers and “Helping Parents”, and by serving on the Board of Directors.