Stevens Cooperative School: Comprehensive Company Profile

Background

Overview

Established in 1949 by Mary Sill Baker, Stevens Cooperative School is the oldest parent cooperative school in New Jersey. Originating as an informal playgroup for faculty children at Stevens Institute of Technology, it has evolved into a progressive educational institution serving students from PreK 3 through 8th grade across campuses in Hoboken and Jersey City.

Mission and Vision

Stevens Cooperative School is dedicated to fostering curiosity, compassion, and confidence in students who think deeply, act ethically, and lead by example. The school emphasizes a progressive teaching philosophy that integrates academic intellect with social-emotional intelligence, preparing students to be ethical, articulate, and broad-minded citizens.

Industry Significance

As a pioneer in cooperative education, Stevens Cooperative School exemplifies the integration of family engagement in the educational process. Its progressive curriculum and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion set a benchmark in the independent school sector.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Progressive Education: Implementing a curriculum that is interdisciplinary, hands-on, and tailored to varied learning styles.

Community Engagement: Encouraging active participation from families to enhance student achievement.

Diversity and Inclusion: Creating an equitable learning environment that reflects the community's diversity.

Specialization Areas

Early Childhood to Middle School Education: Serving students aged 3 through 14 with a focus on holistic development.

Social-Emotional Learning: Integrating emotional intelligence into the academic curriculum.

Primary Markets

The school primarily serves families in Hoboken, Jersey City, and surrounding areas, including Weehawken, North Bergen, Secaucus, Union City, Bayonne, West New York, Cliffside Park, and Manhattan.

Financials and Funding

Revenue and Expenses

Fiscal Year Ending June 2023:

Revenue: $15,302,877

Expenses: $15,468,109

Net Assets: $12,154,451

Fiscal Year Ending June 2022:

Revenue: $15,080,781

Expenses: $13,600,356

Net Assets: $11,827,531

Funding Sources

The school's revenue is primarily derived from program services, including tuition and fees, supplemented by contributions and investment income.

Pipeline Development

Educational Programs

Stevens Cooperative School offers a comprehensive curriculum from PreK 3 through 8th grade, emphasizing progressive education principles. The school continuously evaluates and updates its programs to align with best practices in education.

Future Initiatives

The school is committed to continuous improvement, regularly ensuring that its curriculum and programs are innovative, inclusive, and true to its mission.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

While specific proprietary technologies are not detailed, Stevens Cooperative School integrates modern educational tools and platforms to enhance learning experiences.

Scientific Methodologies

The school employs progressive teaching methodologies, including interdisciplinary and hands-on learning approaches, to foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Leadership Team

Key Executives

Sergio Alati: Head of School since July 2012, overseeing the school's strategic direction and operations.

Shehla Ghouse: Principal of the Newport campus, responsible for academic leadership and campus management.

Erica L. Jacobson: Director of Finance & Operations, managing the school's financial health and operational efficiency.

Board of Trustees

Ingrid Rasmussen: Board Chair

Raghu Reddy: Vice Chair

Becky Egan: Treasurer

Jacqueline Khost: Secretary

Tia Adams: Trustee

Kat Blostein: Trustee

Cassandra Bolz: Trustee

Will Lau: Trustee

Maya Hamilton: Trustee

Raakhee Mirchandani: Trustee

Amanda Boggs: Trustee

Maykool Lopez: Trustee

Francesca Acocella: Alumni Trustee

Sagar Mathur: Trustee

Dave Carty: Alumni Parent Trustee

Leadership Changes

As of the latest available information, there have been no recent significant changes in the school's leadership team.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The independent school sector in New Jersey is competitive, with numerous institutions offering varied educational philosophies and programs. The demand for progressive education models has been increasing, positioning Stevens Cooperative School favorably within this market.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors include other independent and cooperative schools in the region, such as The Hudson School and Hamilton Park Montessori School. These institutions offer similar grade levels and emphasize progressive education, making the market competitive.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Stevens Cooperative School maintains partnerships with various educational organizations and accrediting bodies, including the New Jersey Association of Independent Schools and the Middle States Association Commission on Elementary and Secondary Schools.

Operational Insights

Competitive Advantages

Community Engagement: The cooperative model fosters deep family involvement, enhancing student achievement.

Progressive Curriculum: The interdisciplinary and hands-on learning approach distinguishes the school from traditional educational models.

Diversity and Inclusion: A strong commitment to creating an equitable learning environment reflects the community's diversity.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Expansion Plans

While specific expansion plans are not detailed, the school's commitment to continuous improvement suggests potential growth in programs and facilities.

Future Objectives