Who we are: a licensed, play-based co-op preschool in Ann Arbor
Glacier Way exists to help you and your child develop a love for school — together.
At Glacier Way Co-op Preschool, we want your preschooler to form a love for school and learning that will endure through grade school and beyond.
We’re a cooperative (‘co-op’) three-day-a-week school in Ann Arbor for families with children age 3 - 5. This means parents and caregivers are hands-on in the classroom and play a small role in running the school.
We’re here to spark creativity, curiosity, and social-emotional growth for young children, together with their family.
Learn more about the role parents play in our preschool.
A co-op that brings families together
Glacier Way Co-op Preschool provides a unique play-based opportunity for both kids and caregivers: adults shape and participate in their child’s learning, and build connections with other families.
You’ll find us in a tree-filled historic neighborhood on the west side of Ann Arbor. Our classroom is nestled within the building of West Side Methodist Church (we aren’t connected to the church, but they’re a great host).
Glacier Way Co-op Preschool is licensed in the state of Michigan. The school has no religious affiliation.
A space designed for kids to thrive
We believe ages 3 - 5 are a critical time for parents to be involved in their child’s social and emotional development, building autonomy and a love of learning for years ahead.
Everything about our physical space and our daily schedule is designed with those goals in mind, from the way kids enter the room to how we’ve carved out spaces for both dramatic/creative play as well as quiet/focus time.
Read about a typical day at Glacier Way, or take a virtual tour of our space.
Why is Glacier Way named Glacier Way?
While the historic west side of Ann Arbor might be in a floodplain left by glacial movement long ago, the school is not named for such geological formations. Nor is it located on Glazier Way drive on the northeast side of town.
Glacier Way simply refers to a former location for the school. The name stuck, and the preschool is celebrating it’s 50th anniversary in 2025!
We’d love to get to know you
Ultimately, the spirit of a co-op school is made up of the families that belong to it! If your values and goals align with Glacier Way’s, we’d love to meet you and help you plug in to our school.
Find ways to speak with someone on our contact us page, or take a tour of our space — virtual or physical — here.
Another way to learn more is to read about the kids’ experience and parent/caregiver experience to help understand if Glacier Way is right for you.
Interested in joining us for the upcoming semester?