A cooperative preschool is a parent-led organization – parents hire teachers, perform a job at the school, and participate in the classroom. Children, parents, & teachers go to school together, each learning from the other. A P P R O A C H
Downey’s “learn through play” approach stimulates curiosity and creates a po
> Apply early STEM skills (science, technology, engineering, math)
> Practice literature-based play, emergent writing, & early literacy
> Develop self-understanding & confidence
> Influence growth towards self-control
> Build security with adults
> Foster self-expression through art & music
> Work cooperatively in group activities
> Promote health & motor development
> Learn to handle emotions in a constructive way
> Stimulate social interaction with peers
> Develop a positive attitude about school
> Inspire creative exploration
> Promote an eagerness for learning
> Explore nature, gardens, & farming
> Engage in imaginative play
C U R R I C U L U M
Every day in the classroom, self-directed open play lets kids explore the world at their own pace. Each class session also includes structured activities such as singing & stories, playground time for burning energy & large muscle coordination, and snack time which gives kids a fun way to celebrate birthdays & chat about their day. On field trip days, kids visit local farms, libraries, or take nature walks.
> Easel painting, sculpting, drawing, & coloring
> Construction play & building blocks
> Performance & imaginative play
> Science & engineering activities
> Books & literature-based play
> Puzzles & math games
> Dress-up & costumes
> Rhythm & music play
P A R E N T S
At Downey, parent contributions are essential and allow the school to offer high quality programs at affordable costs. “A co-op is your school as much as it is your child’s school. You give it your energy & your ideas. You put yourself into the school. You help to shape it and to make it whatever it becomes.” -- James L. Hymez, Jr., Past President of the National Association for the Education of Young Children
> Participate in the classroom 1-2 times / month
> Choose a job that helps with the running of the school
> Participate in parent education workshops
> Attend orientation classes & help with fundraisers
> Pay a registration fee and tuition
> Please don't hesitate to contact Downey for more information about Parent Responsibilities! [email protected]
D I D Y O U K N O W ?
> Downey teachers are qualified & experienced
> We have decades of experience! Downey has been serving the Irvington & downtown Indy communities for 50 years
> Downey is a registered member of the Indiana Council of Preschool Cooperatives
> The Downey building features fun-packed classrooms with abundant natural light, direct access to a secure wooded playground, and a gymnasium for indoor large motor play & special events
C L A S S E S
Tuition fees range from $65-85/mo depending on the class. Register online at DowneyCoop.com. For registration fees, tuition, & more information contact [email protected], 317.426.9094
> Lily Pads: 18-24mo, practice preschool
> Tadpoles: age 2 by Sept 1, two hour classes, twice a week
> Polliwogs: age 3 by Sept 1, 2-1/2 hour classes, twice a week
> Frogs: age 4 by Sept 1, 2-1/2 hour classes, three times a week
Play dates are a great chance to catch up with friends, enjoy the sunshine, and meet someone new! There are day and evening time slots to accommodate different schedules. Often, families pack a lunch or a few snacks and stay for a while.
Join us and feel free to bring a friend, too! ☀️
05/08/2026
We love this info about our teachers! All co-op teachers are one of a kind!
05/08/2026
Next week, the Leapfrog students will be doing their annual lemonade stand on Wednesday, May 13 and Thursday May 14. The kindergarten students plan, sets up, and operates a Lemonade Stand every year to raise money for the ICAN Food Pantry that is hosted by Downey Avenue Christian Church.
Everyone is welcome to stop by and support the Leapfrog students with this project!
05/06/2026
Downey is hiring!
Love working with young learners? ✅
Downey Cooperative Preschool & Kindergarten is hiring part-time Preschool Teachers for the 2026–2027 school year.
Join a collaborative, family-centered environment where children, parents, and teachers all play an active role in the learning process.
Happy National Teacher Appreciation week! We are so lucky to have three awesome teachers in our community. They deserve all of our thanks and recognition for their unceasing creativity, devotion, and commitment to our school community!
Thank you Mindy, Angie, and Peggy! 💚

05/02/2026
Welcome to May! 🎉
It’s one of the busiest months of the year at co-op and we can’t wait to see what this sunshine brings- new beginnings and sweet traditions to share!
Let’s make memories together!
04/23/2026
Birthdays are such a special part of our days at school! 🎉
All of our teachers do a wonderful job of finding special ways to celebrate the little moments in a busy classroom all year long. From birthday crowns to yummy treats and songs, students make memories to last a lifetime and parents are able to share in the process through the co-op experience! 🎂
10/24/2025
Downey families are kicking off our annual holiday poinsettia sale!
We’re selling poinsettias in red, white, and pink. We also have the options of Christmas cactus, cyclamen, and festive holiday planters. These make perfect gifts or an easy way to bring some color and cheer into your home for the holidays.
If you know a family at Downey, reach out to them for their personal link. If not, you can use our community link here to support the school directly: https://app.fundraiseit.org/shop.php?code=2D4D72
Thank you for supporting our co-op and helping us keep this community growing.
06/08/2026
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