About Us
Experience
Our teachers all have Bachelor’s Degrees, many years of experience in Elementary Education and a lot of enthusiasm.
Environment
We provide an environment which will enhance the educational, physical and social development of the individual child.
Enrichment
Through guidance, social interactions and stimulating environment we bring enrichment to early childhood development.
Understanding
Parents receive a better understanding of the child through enriching parent volunteer opportunities.
Participation
We’re a parent participation, or cooperative, program where each family, if they wish, can share in the planning and operation of the school.
Democratic
Due to the efforts of parents and the opportunities for direct involvement during the school day, ONS is able to provide a unique educational endeavor. Our non-profit, non-sectarian organization is managed by a Board of Directors comprised of volunteer parents.
What is a Co-op?
A co-op, short for cooperative, is an organization that is owned or managed by the members of the group. The first co-op preschool in the United States was founded in 1916 at the University of Chicago. The founding mothers' goal was to pool their resources to create a child care program that would allow them to participate in the war effort. A co-op preschool is usually a non-profit organization. A professional teacher, director, and/or staff are often employed, but parents are relied upon to help give the school its unique character.
Parent Participation
Optional parent participation allows you to become involved with your child’s school at your pace. There are opportunities to help in the class room, volunteering either on the Board of Directors or with one of the family events. Our family events include the Oconomowoc Homecoming parade, Halloween party, Breakfast with Santa and our annual brat fry. Parents are always invited to attend the monthly board meetings where school business is discussed and policies and standards are shaped.
Is a Co-op preschool right for you?
Co-op participation can be highly rewarding. It creates a strong sense of community, provides parent education, and can give you a valuable connection with your children. It is the parent's participation that makes a co-op unique. If you have the time, get involved in the school including options like holding a board position, working in the classroom, helping with event clean up, or doing some fundraising. You don't have to have any special skills, but you can contribute when and where you can.
Our Team
Jane Klawes
Lead Teacher
Mrs. Klawes has been with ONS for over 35 years. She graduated from UW-Platteville with a degree in Elementary Education. Prior to coming to ONS, Mrs. Klawes taught kindergarten in Oconomowoc.
Mrs. Klawes has lived in Nashotah and Oconomowoc her entire life. She says her inspiration for becoming a teacher began in the first grade.
Jean Schlosser
Assistant Teacher
Mrs. Schlosser graduated from UW-Whitewater with a degree in Elementary and Special Education. She has been a part of the Oconomowoc Nursery staff since 2002.
Prior to coming to ONS, Mrs. Schlosser was a special education teacher at Merton Elementary School for 7 years. She also was a substitute teacher for the Oconomowoc and Arrowhead school districts as well as at ONS.
Sue Waldorf
Office Manager
Mrs. Waldorf has been with ONS for 22 years. She is a wonderful resource for the parents, children and staff.
