Our Philosophy

Our philosophy is based on the principles outlined by The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC.) We are a child-centered, developmentally appropriate, anti-bias program that focuses on the whole child. We value the imagination and creativity of each child and the individuality of every family enrolled in our program.

Our Mission

Los Altos Parent Preschool is a community of parents and educators committed to providing an enriching environment for our children through parent education, parent involvement and mutual support. We foster imagination and individuality in each child. We understand that children, parents and staff are growing, and that the process of growth involves mistakes. Individuals will be treated with respect, compassion, acceptance and encouragement as they work toward their goals.

Our History

The Los Altos Parent Preschool was begun in 1954 by a group of mothers who felt a strong need in the rapidly growing community for a co-operative preschool with high standards. The parents wished to share responsibility for the administration, maintenance, and working program of the school. They formed a non-profit corporation, the Los Altos Parent Preschool, to furnish housing, equipment, supplies, and part of the Teacher/Directors' salaries.

The Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District agreed to supervise the program and share with the parents the payment of qualified Teacher/Directors' salaries. As part of the Adult Education Department, the preschool became the laboratory for a parent education class. The Los Altos United Methodist Church granted the use of their facilities.

In 1998, the Mountain View-Los Altos School Board voted in favor of giving Los Altos Parent Preschool a piece of land located at the West end of the Los Altos High School Campus. Through huge fund-raising efforts and community and member donations, the preschool was able to buy a portable and furnish the play yard. Improvements have continued including the latest - a brand new play structure installed in November 2006.

In 2004, we celebrated 50 years of growing together. In accordance with California standards of Adult Education, parents in a co-op organization maintain active memberships to assist the Teachers and Directors in the preschool and attend regularly scheduled parent meetings.