About Us
Established in 1963, our low-cost preschool has been serving the Granada Hills community and fellow Los Angelenos for almost 60 years. We are a play-based and parent-led cooperative preschool that encourages creativity, curiosity, and community.
Our Philosophy
We believe that a child's first introduction to education is greatly enhanced when families are involved. The nurturing and supportive home environment extends into the classroom bringing warmth and community. When a child shares their preschool experience with family, life-long learning is modeled and encouraged.
Meet Teacher Nancy!
(Parent and Me)
How long have you been teaching?
I started teaching from 2001-2005. This will be my 19th year teaching.
What considerations do you make when planning curriculum?
I have to know my audience. Some things may look cool online but do not work in the classroom. I like to do units/subjects over a longer period of time (i.e. one month of bugs and nature, one month of spring and colors). I look at curriculum planning as a whole experience with standards in mind (i.e. how to hold a pencil/crayon).
What is your teaching motto?
Have fun everyday! “Childhood is a journey not a race.”
What goes into planning curriculum?
A lot of research and reflection! I look at what I have done before and revise according to the current atmosphere, the age ratio, and the dynamic of the collective group. It is a lot of balancing, exposure, trial and error, and learning together. It is important to learn from mistakes and embrace failure as an important learning tool.
What ages have you taught?
My credential is in early childhood education.
What do you find most rewarding?
The kids! It’s so rewarding when they finally do something that they have had a hard time doing. I love seeing them master and meet the challenge! That’s the best feeling ever!
What do you find most challenging?
Giving the children everything I can so they are prepared for their next school.
If you could change one thing about our education system, what would that be?
Children learn through play so it is important to focus on incorporating play and projects throughout the education system instead of repetitive work.
Meet Teacher Crystal
(Preschool)
How long have you been teaching?
I have been teaching in early education for over 20 years. I have been a teacher, director, therapeutic companion to children with special needs, parent educator, and enrichment teacher.
What considerations do you make when planning curriculum? What goes into planning curriculum?
It is essential to meet children where they are. You must have a strong knowledge base in developmentally appropriate practices, to allow you to facilitate learning experiences and recognize milestones. It is equally important to be present with your students and listen to what is being expressed: their wants, needs, interests, concerns, challenges. I also strive to create a "yes" environment where the only limits are safety, kindness, and respect.
What is your teaching motto?
Creativity. Safety. Authenticity. Respectful. Inclusive. Resilience. Community. Kindness. Children's voice's matter and should be celebrated.
What do you find most rewarding?
I love working with families! Parenting is hard and can be isolating. Young children have all the same emotions as adults but very few of the coping skills. Family dynamics can be complex. Being able to provide support and nurturing for families during this wonderful and challenging time is the most rewarding part of my work.
What ages have you taught?
I have taught all ages, but I especially love ages 18 months-5 years old.
If you could change one thing about our education system, what would that be?
MORE PLAY! I strongly believe that we need to let children have a childhood. Give them more time to explore, discover, and connect through play. I see local elementary schools boast about preparing children for college and I want to say, "Wait! Let them enjoy this age and this experience without racing toward a finish line."
What do you find most challenging?
Not having enough hours in the day! (lol). I wish I could do more, help more, create more change, support more families. So I guess the most challenging thing for me is maintaining some kind of work/life balance.
Meet Our Leadership Board
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Crystal McGinnis
Director/Teacher
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Robert Haberman
President
president@northhillscoop.com -
Judy Avila
Vice President
vice.president@northhillscoop.com -
Josi Patz
Secretary
secretary@northhillscoop.com -
Jennifer Hathaway
Treasurer
treasurer@northhillscoop.com -
Tara Tosten
Membership membership@northhillscoop.com
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Fundraising
fundraising@northhillscoop.com -
Manpreet & Aalam Cheema
Maintenance
maintenance@northhillscoop.com -
Adriana Cortez
Health & Safety Chair