What are the benefits of sending my child to a cooperative model school?

At Dover Gardens, all families have a chance to participate in their child’s first school and social experiences. During duty days you have the opportunity to see how your child interacts with other children, get to know their teachers and their friends. In addition the cooperative model provides an excellent way to meet new people and become further involved in the community.

What responsibilities do parents have at Dover Gardens?

Dover Gardens is run on the cooperative model, which means that parents manage and participate in running the school. Each family chooses a task at the beginning of the year and performs this in addition to doing a set number of duty days per six week cycle, depending on the number of days that your child is enrolled.

Parent members work together on committees, in rotation in the playroom and attend the semi-annual general meetings.

Does Dover Gardens run a full day program?

At this time we only offer a morning program which runs from 9-12 p.m. We also offer a Kindergarten Preparation course for children who will be starting JK the following year, which extends the day until 12:45.

How many days can my child attend Dover Gardens?

Your child can attend anywhere from two to five mornings per week. Two day schedule is Thursday and Friday, three day is Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. 

Does Dover Gardens close in the summer?

Yes. Since we are housed in  Dovercourt Junior Public School, we follow the schedule of the Toronto District School Board. The school closes for two weeks at Christmas, one week for March break and two months in the summer. We are open during PD days.

Does my child need to be potty-trained to attend Dover Gardens?

No. Both E.C.E instructors are trained in toileting and diapering and will support whatever stage your child is currently at.