50 Years of Preschool

Eatonville Cooperative Nursery School celebrates half a century of learning

Story and photos by Rick Stedman

The Eatonville Cooperative Nursery School
celebrates its 50th anniversary on July 19,
and the entire town of Eatonville is invited,
especially alumni. The celebratory event
will feature lots of activities and lots of
fun.
“There will be a DJ playing tunes, a
petting zoo, food for purchase and much
more,” says school registrar Katelyn
Richardson. “Everyone is invited.”
The nonprofit preschool began holding
classes in 1975 in the basement of the
Eatonville Methodist Church. Several
years later, it moved to its current location
in a one-room schoolhouse. Katelyn says
the building was originally constructed in
1892, and is the oldest school building in
Eatonville.

“Once the Eatonville Cooperative Nursery School moved to the one-room school, it found a permanent home,” Katelyn says.
The community celebration takes place from 1-4 p.m., July 19, at Glacier View Park adjacent to the school.
“We invite the town to come celebrate the preschool and the community we’ve all built together,”
Katelyn says. One Room, One Teacher The preschool’s one employee is seasoned educator Katie Moeller, who is known as Miss Katie to any and all. She loves her job and is the heart and soul of ECNS.
Katie began teaching there in 2001. Eatonville Cooperative Nursery School uses a co-op structure, where parents assist in the classroom.
“The co-op parenting responsibilities include working in the classroom, fundraising, committee work and monthly cleaning,”
Katie says. “In the classroom, we keep things interesting and educational for the children, who range from 3 to 5 years old.”
She says the school regularly changes
programs to include themes such as the
five senses, healthy habits, community
helpers and transportation.
“The classroom environment has
interest areas to meet all developmental
needs, for example: dramatic plays, writing
center, blocks, arts, library, listening center
and science,” Katie says.
The daily class schedule consists of free
time, teacher-directed group time, snack
time, music and movement, and outdoor
play.
Not only do the kids learn and love the
class, parents enjoy it as well.
“I feel lucky that I can be so involved in
my daughter’s education,” Anna Amsden
says. “Over the last year, I have
been able to watch her make
friends, work through challenges
and grow. I also get to learn
from Miss Katie and the other
helper/parents, which has helped
me as a mom.”
Multigenerational Learning
The saying “It takes a village to
raise a child” is on full display at
the co-op preschool. Parents do
their part, but oftentimes other
relatives pitch in as well.
“Grandparents often
help out with co-op parent
responsibilities,” Katie says.
“A preschool teacher has the
privilege of providing a child’s
first educational experience,
and my goal is to make that
experience the best it can be for
each of my students.”
Parents sometimes seem to
get more out of the class than
the children.
“Being part of a co-op
preschool isn’t just about being
involved in my daughter’s
education,” says Misty Speaks,
“it’s about joining a community
rooted in love, devotion
and togetherness, where every child is
cherished and every family belongs.”
Parent Haley Guenthner says she and
her children have made lifelong friends
through the co-op.
“This place is one of Eatonville’s greatest
treasures, and I’ll never forget the love and
laughter I experienced here,” Haley says.
Katie is fond of the Mr. Rogers quote,
“In every neighborhood, all across our
country, there are good people insisting
on a good start for the young and doing
something about it.”
“This truly captures the heart of the
Eatonville Cooperative Nursery School
program,” Katie says.

Eatonville Cooperative Nursery School is
located at 210 Fir Ave N., Eatonville, 98328.
For more information, call 253-606-1858 or
visit eatonvillecooperativenurseryschool.com