Community Nursery School

Community Nursery School, or CNS, is a cooperative preschool founded in 1955 by a group of parents who wanted an active role in their children's early education. It offers classes for toddlers with caregivers, along with 3-year-old, 4-year-old and 5-year-old classes, plus additional programming and summer sessions. Play-based learning is central to its approach.

The school sits on a scenic, wooded lot in Guilford with nature trails, an outdoor classroom and two outdoor play areas. Families are expected to take part: caregivers spend at least four days a year in the classroom, help with one grounds cleanup and volunteer at the Little Folks Fair, and each takes on one administrative role per year. Visitors can arrange a tour to learn more about the cooperative approach.