In 1945, a group of women from the Marin Child Study Section of AAUW had a bold idea: create a Parent Education co-op alongside a nursery school program.
The motivation was not just child care. Instead, its primary goal was to establish a "laboratory" to help mothers and fathers navigate the complexities of parenting. After months of meticulous planning, including finding the perfect spot at the Redwoods Presbyterian Church in Larkspur, their vision came to life. With the Fire Marshal's approval and the community's eager response, Twin Cities Community Preschool was born. 

Guided by education experts and families from the community, the program flourished, culminating in the purchase of its permanent home in 1952 in Corte Madera. The initiative inspired further interest, leading to the school’s board to lend their expertise to other budding co-ops in Marin. 

Now, more than 75 years later, Twin Cities Community Preschool stands as a testament to the enduring power of collaboration and commitment, thriving under the nurturing care of generations of devoted families and an ever-vibrant community.

Our Story

A woman reading a book to four children outdoors, with a wooden ladder and fencing in the background, in black and white.
Black and white photo of children playing a circle game outdoors, holding hands, with two women supervising, in a backyard with toys and a wooden fence.
Black and white photo of children on a wooden and wire fence play structure, with mountains in the background. Some children are looking down, others are looking outward, and one child is waving a ribbon.
A woman reading a children's book titled "Big & Little" to a group of children sitting around a table in a classroom or daycare setting.
Five children playing and working together on a woodworking project outdoors, with trees and a building in the background.
Black and white photo of three children working together in a garden or farm, shoveling soil into a wheelbarrow.
Two children playing on a jungle gym outdoors. One girl stands at the top, holding the side of the structure, while another girl is upside down hanging from the middle bars, with her hair hanging down.

Our Philosophy

At Twin Cities Community Preschool (TCCP), our child-led philosophy thrives in a cooperative community where teachers and parent-teachers serve as guides and facilitators within a low adult-to-child ratio. We deeply value play as the catalyst for holistic development, where children interact with peers and supportive parent-teachers and teachers, fostering skills like cooperation and problem-solving.

Our collaborative approach involves parents and educators working together to provide an open space for children to explore freely, nurturing their interests through play. Informed by developmental theories, our curriculum sparks curiosity, fosters a love for learning, and creates a deep sense of community.

80 Years of Community, Play, and Learning

On October 10, 2026, Twin Cities Community Preschool (TCCP) in Corte Madera celebrated its 80th Anniversary, bringing together current families, alumni, former teachers, and community members to honor eight decades of play-based early childhood education and parent participation in Southern Marin.

Founded in 1946, TCCP is one of Marin's longstanding cooperative preschools and has served generations of local families. The anniversary celebration highlighted the school's unique history and deep community roots, with attendees reconnecting through photos, memories, and stories spanning multiple generations. 

The milestone was also recognized by the Town of Corte Madera during its October 6, 2026 Town Council meeting, where Mayor Thomas presented a formal commendation to TCCP in recognition of its 80 years of service to children and families and its commitment to parent participation and early childhood education.

Beyond celebrating the past, the event demonstrated the strength of the preschool's extended community. Alumni, current families, and local businesses contributed to a silent auction and fundraising effort that raised approximately $31,000 to support classroom programs, educational materials, and future generations of students.

Several notable community connections emerged during the event, including dinner provided by TACKO, owned by TCCP alumni Chris and Jennifer, and auction contributions from alumni and parent-owned local businesses. The gathering served as a reminder of how a small cooperative preschool has created lasting relationships that continue well beyond the preschool years.

With increasing attention on the importance of early childhood education and community-based institutions, TCCP's 80-year history offers a unique look at how one local school has connected generations of Marin families through learning, volunteerism, and parent involvement.

What Parents Say About TCCP

  • Twin Cities Co-op really changed our lives. For real. As non-natives here in Marin (moved from Phoenix, AZ about a year ago), we initially did not know anyone or have any idea where to send our daughter (age 4 1/2) to preschool. We were incredibly fortunate to find TCCP and have never been happier. It is a school that truly cares for children.

    -Shay

  • TCCP was the best decision we made for a preschool. It offered an incredible experience both our child and us to grow and learn. As a new parent, I appreciated the parent-participation, and being a part of my kid’s early learning journey. Run by dedicated teachers and a wonderful director Maureen, who advocated for a play-based learning approach over 18 years ago. Also one of the most affordable preschool options in expensive Marin.

    -Janie

  • Amazing coop preschool! Best teachers, tons of great outside space, endless play options each day for kids, and more affordable than any other school you’ll find. Parents volunteer one morning each week and it creates a real communty for you and your child. Best preschool you’ll find in Marin - seriously!

    -Kari

  • My son and I have had an amazing experience at TCCP. The director and professional teachers are excellent, and the opportunity to be part of my child’s early school experience has been a true gift. I’ve learned so much from the staff, and I’ve made great friends and garnered tremendous support from the community. The play-based approach allows children to be themselves and to learn as little ones do best—by playing and following their own interests.

    -Erica

  • The Twin Cities Co-Op is an amazing treasure in our community! This play-based, parent-participatory preschool has truly been a place where my children and our family have made life-long connections. My oldest son graduated from the co-op and my daughter currently attends this school and we plan to send my youngest here in 2 years when he is eligible (and if there is a spot, fingers crossed!).

    -G W