Daily Inspiration: Meet Sara Cooper

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sara Cooper.

Hi Sara, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I started my education at Western Michigan University, where I got married early and had three children by the time I graduated. I began teaching in Michigan for three years in an incredible early childhood building for Pre-K-2nd grade. When we then moved to Indiana, I started teaching at a private preschool, in both preschool and Pre-K classrooms for 18 years. It was there that I had an amazing mentor who taught me the importance of relationship building when it comes to being a good director and leader. Four years ago, we moved to Colorado. I began teaching Pre-K at My School Preschool and was the assistant director until May 2025 when I took over as director.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Having a job and being a mom is always a struggle. You want to give your best to both your own kids and your students. As a director, I have seen the real struggle of how classrooms can be impacted by a lack of qualified teachers and finances in early childhood education.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As the current director of My School Preschool, a traditional preschool established in 1971 with strong community roots, I play a multifaceted role. Primarily relying on word-of-mouth referrals, I focus on recruiting new families while also overseeing budgets alongside my board members, crafting contracts, and hiring teachers. My daily tasks include greeting families, addressing their concerns, ensuring smooth classroom operations, and making sure all needs are met.

A key influence in my career was my mentor who instilled in me the importance of treating teachers with respect and appreciation. I strive to create a supportive environment where teachers feel valued, understanding that even small gestures, like a candy jar or birthday gifts, can make a difference. Teachers play such a vital role in a school’s success. Their ability to connect with families and maintain a positive classroom environment are what sets My School Preschool apart, ranking it as a top preschool in Greenwood Village. As a former teacher, I’ve found I am able to connect with our teachers, understand their challenges, and provide support in achieving success.

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Relationships! When you create a relationship with your staff and families, it opens the doors to problem solving and creative thinking. Positive relationships give a feeling of worth, helping us through tough times, and also celebrate with our wins. I want our parents and teachers to feel that they can come to me with the good and the bad. When we work together, we can solve problems and we can make the good even better.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.myschool-preschool.org
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myschoolpreschool/