The Bethesda Cooperative Nursery School (the “Nursery School” or “BCNS”) is purposefully operated as a parent-participating nursery school, where parents on a regularly-scheduled basis interact with their children in a group under the guidance of a teacher. The classroom becomes a learning environment for both parent and child. Parents are able to learn about child development while participating in classroom activities.
The Nursery School is licensed by Montgomery County Department of Health and accredited by the Maryland State Board of Education. BCNS is also a member of Maryland Council of Parent Participation Nursery Schools (MCPPNS).
BCNS is a non-profit, non-sectarian organization, operated by the Church In Bethesda (previously know as Bethesda First Baptist Church) as a ministry to the community. The church provides physical facilities, custodial services, utilities, office support, and fire and liability insurance. School Policy is set by the Leadership Trustees Committee of the church in conjunction with the Pastors and Nursery School director. Channels of communication are established among parents, staff, pastors and committee. Furthermore, the church and its staff are willing and able to be of service to the total family by providing opportunities for education and spiritual support.
The Nursery School offers the following classes based on age group and sessions per week.
| Class Name |
Age Groups |
Days Offered | Times |
| Fish | 2 | T/TH | 9:15 am -11:45 am |
| Frogs | 2 | M/W/F | 9:15 am -11:45 am |
| Fireflies | 3 | M/T/W/TH | 9:30 am – 12 noon |
| Caterpillars | 4 | M/T/W/TH/F | 9:30 am – 12 noon |
For the pupils’ benefit, class size is typically limited to 8 pupils in each two-year-old class, 13 pupils in the three year-old-class and 14 pupils in the four-year-old class.