Dear Mayor and Members of the Menlo Park City Council,
I am writing to express my support for renewing the lease for the Menlo
Atherton Cooperative School.
Our son attended the Co-op, and it became so much more than just a
preschool for our family—it was our first community in a new country. As
newcomers to the U.S., the Co-op was instrumental in helping us feel
welcomed and rooted. We found lifelong friends there, and more importantly,
we embraced the values of community participation, inclusion, and
collaborative learning that the Co-op stands for.
The school plays a vital role not just in early childhood education but
also in strengthening the social fabric of Menlo Park and the broader
community. Its parent-participation model fosters a deep sense of
involvement and responsibility that benefits both children and families.
If the lease renewal is not granted, I would appreciate understanding what
alternatives the City has planned. Are these alternatives aligned with the
values, affordability, and community-building that the Co-op offers? What
provisions are being made for the families and children who currently rely
on this school?
Please keep the Co-op in its home. It has been a cherished institution for
decades, and its impact on families like ours is lasting and profound.
Sincerely,
Kapil
Residents of 700 Middle Ave, Menlo Park
