Now enrolling · 2026-27
Now enrolling children 2 to 5
A parent-run co-op at Grattan Playground, founded 1974. This year we've expanded to full days, and applying takes about five minutes.
New this year
Longer days
Full days now run until 3:30 pm, with an aftercare nanny share to 5:30.
Start at any age 2
Children can join as soon as they turn 2, whenever in the year that falls. No waiting for the new school year.
A new director
Michele Menard joins us for 2026-27 after 16 years leading a co-op.
Co-op Director
Meet Michele Menard
Michele joins us for 2026-27 after 16 years leading the co-op at Puddle Jumpers, where she was named Best Co-op Director in 2023. She is a teaching artist with 25 years in early childhood education, and her classroom draws on Reggio Emilia's play-based approach.
Hours
- Half day
- 8:30 am to 12 noon
- Full day
- 8:30 am to 3:30 pm
- Aftercare nanny share
- 3:30 to 5:30 pm
We follow the SFUSD calendar. The school year runs from mid-August to early June. Tell us your preferred hours when you apply and we will try to accommodate your schedule.
Tuition
- Half day
- $600 per month
- Full day
- $1,200 per month
Paid monthly from August through May. We do not prorate for shorter months, and there are no additional fundraising fees for member families. Scholarships are available.
Applying
It takes about five minutes
Fill in the form
Eight short questions about you and your child. No documents needed.
Pay the $50 fee
A link comes up as soon as you submit. If the fee is a barrier for your family, email us and we will waive it. No explanation needed.
We get in touch
We have openings throughout the year, so you can apply any time.
The Haight Ashbury Co-Op
Opened in 1974, HACNS is a place for children to develop an enduring love of learning through imaginary play, developmentally appropriate art and science projects, books, music, and movement.
Housed at the Grattan Playground in Cole Valley, our uncommonly large, sunny, and sandy playground is an urban oasis where children have the opportunity to master new physical challenges with the freedom to explore and use their imaginations.
A school families build together
As a cooperative nursery school, parent participation helps create a family atmosphere that reflects the San Francisco community. Because parents run most of the school themselves, tuition is a fraction of what other preschools cost, and scholarships are available.
School Life
Cooking projects, sand and water play, garden walks, circle time, and field trips.
Come see us
Drop-in visits during school hours are welcome, no appointment necessary. We're at the Grattan Clubhouse in Cole Valley.