About Santa Clara Parents Nursery School
Play based preschool in Santa Clara
Helping families grow — together.
You want more than just a preschool.
You want your child to feel safe, curious, and joyful.
You want to feel confident, connected, and part of something real.
But so many early childhood options feel impersonal, rushed, or rigid.
You shouldn’t have to choose between a great learning environment for your child and a supportive space for yourself.
That’s where we come in!
Santa Clara Parents Nursery School (SCPNS) is a play-based, parent-participation preschool in Santa Clara where families grow side by side. For over 60 years, we’ve helped children build confidence through play — and helped parents find connection, purpose, and support through community.
We’re proud to be a part of the California Council of Parent Participation Nursery Schools and its Silicon Valley chapter, SCVC, which have supported cooperative schools like ours for generations.
We’re not just a school — we’re a village.
At SCPNS:
-
Children explore, create, and thrive through hands-on, open-ended play
-
Parents are active partners, learning and growing alongside their kids
-
Every voice matters, every family contributes, and no one does it alone
We guide you through every step — from classroom roles to community involvement — so you feel prepared, supported, and empowered.
Because when children feel free to play and parents feel seen and supported, everyone grows.
Ready to be part of something meaningful?
Let’s play and grow together!
Play based preschool in Santa Clara, A parent participation cooperative pre school. Santa Clara Parents Nursery School
Meet our teachers!
Sara
Director and Teacher
I first came to SCPNS in 2009 as a parent, with all three of my children attending over the years. I served on the board as secretary and president before joining the teaching staff in 2016 as the 3s class teacher. I'm a lifelong learner with a passion for early childhood education, especially play-based, child-led learning. I love bringing science, exploration, and discovery into the classroom. I believe deeply in the cooperative model—SCPNS is a place where children, families, and teachers all grow together through joy, curiosity, and mutual respect.
If I was a children's books I would be...
Little Blue Truck — about working together to solve problems while having fun! I truly believe in building a cooperative community where everyone comes together to learn and grow.
Odillia
Lead Teacher
With over 20 years of experience in early childhood education, I’ve been a dedicated preschool teacher since 2005. I hold degrees in Liberal Arts (Behavioral Science) and Human Services, which support my holistic, child-centered approach. I believe young children learn best through play, hands-on experiences, and nurturing relationships. My goal is to create a safe, engaging environment where each child can grow socially, emotionally, and cognitively—while building strong connections with families and the community.
If I was a children's books I would be...
Pete the Cat books—he’s easygoing, optimistic, and always finds a fun, positive way to handle challenges (usually with a catchy song!).
Danyel
Lead Teacher
I joined the SCPNS family in 2024 and immediately felt at home in this play-based community where children and parents learn together. My passion for play-based education started with a parent participation program I attended with my son, which inspired me to pursue a career in early childhood education.
I believe play is the most powerful way to learn at any age. I strive to create safe, nurturing spaces where children can explore, express themselves through art, and grow socially and emotionally.
If I was a children's books I would be...
Little Engine that Could—reminds me to stay positive and believe in what's possible. I love the message that with determination and a hopeful mindset, we can achieve the things we dream of.
Where it all began
Santa Clara Parents Nursery School has been a part of the community since 1956, when a group of dedicated families came together to create a cooperative learning space for the children in our community.
Once upon a school
1956
Founded by a group of parents at Napredak Hall in Santa Clara.
1957
Moved to Bethany Lutheran Church to accommodate more families.
1958
Moved into the building we still use today (originally at 385 N. Monroe St.).
1960
The building was relocated to its current site at 471 N. Monroe St.
1973 & 1985
SCUSD granted additional land, expanding our outdoor play space by 45 feet.
2009
Became an independent, non-profit, parent-run nursery school, licensed by the State of California.
Meet our 2025-2026 board members!
Alongside our amazing teachers, SCPNS is supported by a volunteer board made up of current parents and caregivers. We each bring different talents and experiences to help the school thrive.
Come see for yourself and meet the folks helping guide our community!
.jpg)
President
Kaylin
A former teacher and nurse, Kaylin brings a deep passion for community and lifelong learning to the board. She’s here to help nurture the magic of play-based education for future families.
Always up for:
having pancakes for dinner
Vice president
Gema
Originally an attorney in Spain, Gema has always been passionate about community. Now a paralegal in the U.S., she's excited to support SCPNS and help build a welcoming space.
Always up for:
good coffee and croissant
Secretary
Carla
Raised in Spain, where she earned her Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD in Translation Studies. She helps SCPNS by bringing its strong sense of community and the rich learning environment.
Always up for:
Reading and crochet
Membership
Tracy
Environmental consultant by day with a background in geology, Tracy joined the board to give back to the community that created such a wonderful space for her son.
Always up for:
a bike ride
Committee
Annie
A pediatric occupational therapist, Annie brings her expertise in child development, empathy, and passion for helping families thrive to the SCPNS and broader community.
Always up for:
Watching Formula 1
Maintanence
Kristen
University of Arizona grad with retail experience at Toys R Us, Macy’s, and the Google Merch Store. Brings organization, attention to detail, and teamwork to the board.
Always up for:
Going to the zoo
Publicity
Joy
Photographer by day, with a background in fashion, marketing and graphic design. She helps share and celebrate the SCPNS community through storytelling and outreach.
Always up for:
Thrifting
Treasurer
Got skills?
We've got a spot open with your name on it! We've got a cozy corner of our community waiting for someone special!
Always up for:
What's yours?
Ways and Means
Got skills?
We've got a spot open with your name on it! We've got a cozy corner of our community waiting for someone special!
Always up for:
What's yours?
Melissa
“This school is amazing!! It was the best decision for my two girls. The friends that I have made, have been such a support system for me as I navigated those toddler years."
Sunshine
"Fantastic school that is a caring community of teachers and families.Since it's parent participation a lot of the experience depends on the other families, and the other families are great! My whole family loves this school."
Joy
"If you are looking for an affordable but quality community for your child where parents are challenged into being good role models, you should consider this school."