The Demarest Cooperative Nursery School was established in 1965. We are housed in the educational wing of the United Methodist Church, located at 109 Hardenburgh Ave. in Demarest, N.J. Our curriculum is nonsectarian; no religious instruction is given. However, we do celebrate various holiday traditions.
We are a cooperative nursery school, which gives parents a voice in the decision-making of our school policies and the opportunity to participate in their child’s first school experience. An elected parent executive board meets monthly to discuss and vote on all issues involving the direct operation of the school.
Co-op/Non-Co-op: The families of our school may choose a co-op or non-co-op option. If you choose the co-op option, you will work in the classroom with your child about 1 to 2 times per month. If you choose the non-co-op option, you do not have assigned times that you must work in your child’s classroom; however, you are always welcome to participate. Whichever option you choose, families are encouraged to participate in school events, parent meetings, and fundraisers (minimal commitment). Our parents are our greatest resource! Participation in these Co-op events is a great way for you to meet other families and make lifelong friends.
*Every child benefits from our fundraisers in the form of enrichment programs, special guests, field trips, and specialty equipment. All funds raised go directly to the children of the co-op!
Our Staff
We are fortunate to have wonderful and talented teachers who are extremely enthusiastic, and very dedicated. All our staff members are highly trained; holding college degrees in various areas such as early childhood, elementary education, music, and psychology.
- Mrs. Laurie Neithardt – director and head teacher
- Mrs. Lisa Ullman – group teacher
- Mrs. Christine Marti – group teacher
School Calendar
*Please note that we observe the Demarest Public School
calendar (with some exceptions) regarding holidays, school breaks, and snow days.
Parents will be informed about field trips, parties, special resource people, enrichment programs, fundraising events, and any other important information throughout the school year.
*School usually begins on the second week of September and ends the first week of June, with an extended 2-week summer camp option for 3’s and 4’s.