The Maple Street School

April 30, 2019 • Brooklyn, NY

Located in Brooklyn, NY, Maple Street School is a parent cooperative preschool emphasizing family involvement and connection to the community. Setting up at a new location two years ago was an opportunity to intentionally create an environment in their classrooms that would serve to foster a sense of family and community. In this interview staff members explain how their choice of furniture supports this vision.

Focus:

Child Care

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Located in Brooklyn NY, Maple Street School was founded in 1978 by a group of parents with a vision for a community-based preschool.
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Maple Street School emphasizes parent involvement, connection to the community, and a cooperative spirit. Parents play a large part in their children's learning and growth.
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The classroom set up reflects the values of community learning. A room divider with gate allows for a natural flow and mingling between classes.
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Every child belongs in a place where they are loved and taken care of. It is critical to have furniture that supports all kinds of learning abilities.
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With a small budget, investment is key. Furniture needs to last a long time!

“We don't have a large budget; we are a parent cooperative. We believe in investment. It's important to us that our things are going to last. And, we use things pretty hard, we are very roly-poly, artistic people, and rough on the things that we have. We really needed to invest, because we can only take out all those loans one time.” Jennifer Smith, Program Director, Maple Street School