Celebrating a Rich Legacy: The Story Behind Our Logo and the Heart of Our Co-Op
Chelsea, MI – August 19, 2025 — The Chelsea Children’s Cooperative Preschool is proud to share the story behind its beloved logo, a symbol of community, growth, and family legacy that continues to shape our preschool’s identity today. This year, we unveil a beautifully updated version of our logo—thoughtfully refreshed by Amanda Frazier, a recent parent and former Co-op student, building upon the original design crafted over 25 years ago by her mother, Linda Cooper.
A Legacy of Creativity and Community
From 1992 - 1995, Linda was a dedicated member of our Co-op, serving in various roles including Treasurer and Co-Op President. She recalls that the original logo featured a teddy bear—an adorable symbol, but one she felt was more suited for daycare than preschool. One sleepless night, inspired by the idea of representing children’s independence and community, Linda sketched her design. It became a cherished emblem, depicting children forming early relationships and exploring their world through playful, hand-drawn art.
"I wanted the logo to be about the kids," Linda shares. "My hope was that when the kids saw it, they would know it was for and about them. Seeing it still out there makes me smile."
A Modern Refresh Inspired by Childhood
Amanda, a Co-op alum from the early 1990s, recently served as the Ways and Means Co-Chair while her daughter attended the preschool. When approached to update the logo, she enthusiastically embraced the challenge, eager to honor her mother’s work. Her goal was to preserve the heart of the original design while creating a fresh, simple look that appeals to today’s preschool children. Inspired by construction paper cutouts and her experience as a graphic designer, Amanda used bright, primary colors and a child-friendly font featuring the single-storey “a,” aligning with the literacy skills children are learning.
"For the update, I wanted to keep the spirit of my mom’s original design, but give it a modern, clean look," Amanda explains. "It’s meaningful because so many incredible moments in my life started at the Co-Op, and I love giving back in this way."
Family, Community, and Continuing Traditions
Amanda’s connection to the Co-Op runs deep. She shared that her family’s involvement with the preschool influenced her decision to return to Chelsea to raise her daughter in the community. She revealed that her mother, Linda, hid her and her sister in her original logo—an element Amanda preserved and continued in her updated design, including her own daughter.
“The co-op will always hold a place in my heart.” shared Linda. “It’s a special time in your child’s life when they start their educational career - when they start to refer to themselves as “big”. Participating in the classroom is sometimes trying, but it’s a great bonding experience for you and your child, and a place where you can get to know your kids' friends and their parents. I’m glad my girls were Co-op kids, and it was fun watching my granddaughter become “big” at the Co-op too.”
Celebrating Creativity and Giving Back
Amanda generously donated her time and talents as a graphic designer for our logo update and our school t-shirts last year. She’s also passionate about supporting other nonprofits through her art. Kids and families can check out her vibrant work at Joy Aglow Design Co, where she creates eclectic, colorful, whimsical logos and illustrations.
Join Our Community
We currently have openings in select classes and would love for your family to experience the joy and connection our preschool offers. Visit us online at www.chelseacoop.org to learn more or join us at our Open House on Thursday, August 21st, from 4 to 6 pm. Discover how our cooperative approach nurtures confident, happy learners.