About Us
At Grass Lake Cooperative Preschool, we believe in fostering a nurturing, inclusive, and play-based learning environment where children thrive through exploration, creativity, and social interaction.
Our Mission
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Celebrate each child as a unique individual, encouraging growth at their own pace.
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Provide a hands-on, play-centered curriculum that develops problem-solving, decision-making, and social skills.
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Strengthen the bond between home and school by involving parents as active participants in their child's early education.
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Cultivate a supportive community where families connect, learn, and grow together.
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Keep education accessible and affordable through shared responsibilities, ensuring a high-quality preschool experience for all.
Our Programs
Play-Based Learning - Field Trips - Parent Involvement
Early 3 (33 mos +)
3 Year Old
Pre K/4 Year Old
Early 3's
Bear Cubs
Our Bear Cubs early 3’s preschool program provides a fun and nurturing introduction to learning through play, meeting once a week on Thursdays from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM alongside our Brown Bears.
3 Year Olds
Brown Bears
Our three-year-old preschool program offers a engaging and supportive environment where young learners explore, play, and grow, attending two half days a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM.
4 Year Olds
Panda Bears
Our Panda Bears four-year-old preschool program fosters curiosity, independence, and school readiness through play-based learning, meeting three half days a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM.
HI, I'M MISS CHELSEE
Music lover, Girl mom, Travel Adventurer
Hello Families! My name is Chelsee Shafer, and I am honored to serve as the director and teacher of our wonderful play-based cooperative preschool. I hold a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, as required by the State of Michigan for preschool educators, and I participate in ongoing early childhood education courses each year. My background includes experience in the medical field, where I cared for elderly patients in a small group home, and I am certified in both First Aid and CPR.
My journey with this preschool began as a parent when my daughters attended the early 3’s, 3’s, and 4-year-old programs under the guidance of our former director and teacher, Lissa Cole. Through those years, I fell in love with cooperative learning and the magic of play-based education. The Grass Lake Cooperative Preschool ignited my passion for early childhood education, and I am grateful to have been mentored by Miss Lissa, whose dedication and love for teaching deeply inspired me.
The success of our students and programs is my highest priority. I cherish working closely with families, fostering a cooperative environment where parents and teachers collaborate to create a positive and enriching preschool experience. As an educator, I am dedicated, compassionate, and wholeheartedly invested in the growth and joy of every child. I look forward to another incredible year at the co-op, filled with learning, laughter, and new adventures with your little ones.
Many blessings,
Miss Chelsee
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