We had a pretty negative experience with WCP. We were very interested in enrolling our daughter so we ponied up the $95 registration fee, did their extensive paperwork, and even completed a half-day work shift (when I could have been working a paid shift at my job), climbing onto the roof to clean it up and cutting back blackberry brambles from the fence. We attended an "Ice Cream Social" before the start date to meet the teachers and get a feel for the place. While the instructor that spoke with us was very nice, the one who would actually be teaching our daughter was fairly aloof and didn't make any attempt to even meet our kid. It's not like it was busy, either. Oh, and we were never offered any ice cream. However, due to a work schedule change, WCP's hours didn't end up working out for us so we never sent our daughter there after all. We politely asked that they return the registration fee and was promptly turned down. Oh well, it happens... right? Que sera sera. Yet they still had us in their system, and would send us emails from time to time. When we got one about a summer school program still having slots open, we thought, "Oh, THIS we can use!" We eagerly contacted them and was told that yes, there were still spots. However, due to insurance snags, they would not be able to enroll our kid at all. Whaaat? After all those spam emails, a completed registration form, $95 fee, work party, and ice-cream-less Ice Cream Social? So we replied to "The Board's" email to respectfully ask for our money back (again), explaining all of our grievances and experiences with them, and pretty much begging them since we're pretty broke. Now it's been nearly a week, and not even the courtesy of a "no" or any type of reply at all. Unprofessional and disrespectful. Just keep in mind that, if you have any problems with WCP administration, expect the runaround and lengthy delays in communication. There's a clear lack of empathy and professionalism here which can be a real pitfall for most people. ----------------------- UPDATE: After nearly 2 weeks, they finally replied to our email and said they'd vote on it at their August meeting. They followed up August 8 and told us that they were not willing to make an exception, citing the fine print in their application packet. Since they took a vote, an exception clearly could have made.... but it wasn't. They hid behind fine print instead of doing what was right. We're a low-income local family that's new to the area, we did our work party, and practically begged for our paltry $95 back (which is, unfortunately, a lot of money for us... two weeks' groceries, gone gone gone). Thanks, WCP. They could have at least offered apologies and sympathy, but their email was officious, cold, and entitled. Not what we would expect from an institution representing the Olympia community, which we've otherwise found to be quite welcoming and awesome. Thanks for nothing, WCP. read more

We love WCP this is our third year with the preschool. Our daughter had Teacher Caitlin for the 2 and 3 year old program and currently is in the 4 year old program with Teacher Kaylene. We really enjoy the structure of WCP, learning through play has really helped our daughter's social and cognitive skills. The school is really awesome to play in. There is a large playhouse inside the school, a play kitchen area, dress up, blocks, reading area, art room...The kids get 45 minutes of play time outside and they love it. Rain or shine they get to go outside if they want. There is a play structure, sand area, outdoor kitchen, swings, balance bikes... Every day after school my daughter always says she had the best day. One thing I was worried about before we started was parent helping in the class, however it is very easy and I love participating with her. I also get some great parenting advice from her teachers. Every family has a job and it is easy. Our first year our job was laundry. All we had to do was wash 1 load of laundry a week. The jobs at the school help keep the costs down and our school nice. Every month the preschool goes on field trips around the Olympia area, that is always a super fun day. Also siblings can go which is great. We have gone to the pumpkin patch, library, parks, the beach, Nature Nurture Farm, McLane Creek Trail, Olympia Family Theater. When we first started yellow class I felt a bit overwhelmed it was the first time my child was going to be away from us, but after going to a summer event ice cream party and a playdate all was well. We get lots of emails from the school, I find it nice to be informed about everything that is happening. The school is also reasonably priced. I looked into a few other school and it can get very expensive. We will be sending our youngest daughter next year. She can't wait. I'm glad we get 6 years with the school. Our family has made some great friendships. read more

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I can't say enough good things about this school and the fabulous teachers. This will be our second year here and I am so thankful we found it! My daughter absolutely loves going to school here and we will definitely be sending our son when he is old enough. read more

I am so excited to be a part of Westside Cooperative Preschool! The registration process has been quick and easy. They are continually keeping my family updated. Their space is clean and safe. It was vital to my family that our preschool utilized a lot of the same parenting techniques we used at home with numerous outdoor play time opportunities. Westside does all of this! We are very excited to start our first year in Yellow Class (2 year olds) with our twins. read more

What a great school for learning and playing. The teachers and the facility are the best in the area. Both of my children have gone here and have many fond memories of school and were ahead of their classmates when they started kindergarten. The teachers provide a great balance of learning and fun. read more

This is our second year at WCP, and we couldn't be happier! It is apparent the moment we walk in the door that our child is valued and appreciated for who they are. I am an early childhood professional myself, and WCP is a wonderful place for my children to grow and learn. The teachers are knowledgeable, kind and thoughtful. Their creativity and ability in meeting children's educational, social and emotional needs is exemplary. I am extremely grateful my children will have this as their first school experience! read more

This place is amazing! Not only has it been inspiring and nurturing for my children but it has been an incredible resource and launchpad for my husband and I to grow as parents and community members. read more