FAQ
Is Sunbeam a licensed childcare facility?
No, we are not a licensed childcare. Sunbeam Nature School is a nonprofit two-acre farm space whose mission is to support children and families in developing a deep connection with nature through gardening, animal tending, play and mindful relationships. One of the programs we offer is Sunbeam Co-op. Sunbeam Co-op is a license exempt program for 12 children ages 2-6 years old. The care of the children is shared equally among the enrolled families. There is no tuition payment for our Co-op; families who are members of Sunbeam Co-op pay monthly for supplies and materials as well as for enrichment programs such as parent education events and children's music and spanish classes.
What is the participation requirement for Co-op families?
We require parents to work two mornings per month when school is in session (a total of 8 hours) and an additional four hours per month to help with other Co-op needs, such as animal tending, laundry, cleaning tasks, maintenance/building tasks, event/admissions help.
What are the hours and days of the Co-op? Is there extended care beyond the 8:30-12:30 hours?
Sunbeam Co-op is 8:30am - 12:30pm M-F. We are working to get a city or district partnership that will enable us to offer paid-for afternoon extended care for our co-op member children for a total of 12 hours per week.
Does my child have to be fully toilet-learned?
No, your child can still be in diapers when starting school. It is developmentally appropriate for 2-3-year-olds to use diapers, just as it is developmentally appropriate for that same age group to begin to master the toilet. We can communicate, and we will do our best to support your efforts in ways that work for you and your child.
What is the admissions process?
1) Please visit the "Apply Now" tab to fill out the online application form.
2) Send an email to shawna@sunbeamnatureschool.org to schedule a visit or virtual tour.
3) Priority deadline for 2023/24 school year is March 10, 2023, when our first round of enrollment offers will be sent out via email.
4) You will have 72 hours from receipt to send a completed enrollment agreement and pay your deposit.