A child’s development is not only guided by their self and their teachers, but also by their family and community.  Kapka parents experience the school along with their children. We all work, learn, grow, and have fun together. Although the time and effort you give may be significant, most parents find the rewards of participation in our co-operative are immeasurable. Being in the classroom allows us to see how our child is doing, to know his teachers, friends and their families, and to feel a part of a home-school team.

Working with other parents builds a strong sense of community and belonging. Kapka parents often form strong friendships. We rely on one another. When one of our families experiences an illness, a birth, or some other overwhelming event, we usually coordinate meals and childcare to help ease the transition. Being a part of a cooperative school can be a wonderfully bonding experience.

Parent jobs

Every KapKa family is required to have a parent job, in addition their workshift.  Parent jobs could range from coordinating the Thanksgiving meal project, helping the teachers collect curriculum materials or serving on the School Board (for current Parent Jobs, click here).  While the time commitment varies by the nature of the job, we strive to create both equity and meaning in the effort asked of parents.  Parents should plan on a minimum of 40 hours over the school year for their parent job, in addition to a 4 hour workshift: every other week, first half/second half of year, or every week.

Other ways in which parents are involved in the school are:

• Contribute to fundraising efforts – Help with and contribute to the annual fundraising party and participating in fundraising drives e.g. jog-a-thon, Chinook book sales , etc.
• Supervise/drive on field trips — KapKa students take frequent field trips.  We expect each family will commit to driving or chaperoning for several of these trips over the course of the school year
• Participate in special projects — Several times during the year the students take on projects that require extra adult involvement. Such projects have included cooking Thanksgiving meals for those in need or helping with sewing projects. Each family can expect to work an extra shift on occasion to support these projects
• Contribute to the maintenance of the school —Includes performing or paying for a once a year school cleaning, one mid-week vacuuming, and one weekend-day work party.