The Co-op’s Director, Pat Rackliffe, came to the Co-op as an assistant teacher in 1990. She worked with all age groups at the Co-op before becoming a lead teacher in a three year old classroom. In 2000, Pat became Director of the school while she continued to teach. Pat’s second home is the classroom. “I am continually amazed by the spontaneity of young children. Their ideas, their questions and sense of wonder teach me the importance of being in the moment and looking at things as if for the first time. Children keep me young at heart.” 

Pat has a B.S. degree from the University of Bridgeport and a MS Ed from Bank Street College of Education in NYC.

The Co-op teachers each bring unique attributes to their work.  Their backgrounds, education, and experience are diverse and contribute to the quality of the experience they offer the children in their care. They have knowledge of child development in order to plan for each day, set appropriate goals and assess children’s progress. Their approach to the education of young children is consistent with the Co-op’s philosophy and mission.

The present staff education qualifications are as follows:  Four teachers have a Masters degree; eight have a Bachelor’s degree; two are near completing Bachelor’s degrees; two have Associates Degrees; four have Child Development Associate Credentials designated through the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Co-op teachers complete at least ten hours of professional development training each year.

WWCNS Teacher’s Mission

Teachers at WWCNS strive to apply their own process of growth and development

in creating a learning environment that inspires children to explore

their classroom, the community, and the outside world.

Teachers strive to engage children, families and co-workers in ways that

model respect, acceptance and equality.

We believe that through education and social justice,

we can improve society and the future.