GPCP promotes the social-emotional development of children in a context that supports  individual physical and cognitive growth. The preschool provides a first classroom  experience where learning about working in a group is just as important as learning  about the seasons. The teachers plan activities that encourage children to explore their world and expand their knowledge. Perhaps no other period of time in a child's development is more important in the formation of mental processes and personality  development than the preschool years.

The Granville Parent Cooperative Preschool began in 1943 as a wartime community service project for the benefit of working mothers. Working in pairs, the mothers taught the classes. Since 1955 professional teachers have been employed. After the war, the school moved to the Baptist Church Parish House as a regular nursery school. It remained there until 1951 when it moved to its present location in the Baptist Church Education Building. GPCP is not affiliated with any church or religious organization.

The Granville Parent Cooperative Preschool is a nonprofit organization operated by the parents whose children are enrolled in the school. A volunteer board of parents is elected each year to handle the administration of the school. The parents approve all major policy changes. Under the guidance of qualified teachers, the parents also assist in the classroom and participate in the children's educational program. The efforts of parents and their direct involvement during the school day make GPCP a unique educational endeavor