Appletree offers our unique nature based preschool education for children aged 3-6.
The play-based curriculum and nature education at Appletree is all about valuing wonder! When a child feels safe, respected and attached to the adults in their world they will feel free to be themselves. Our job is to create an environment where children feel happy and confident to be just who they are just on that day. Play and the freedom to play, is how children will learn about their friends, about nature and about themselves. We are able to create an environment to freely explore in the outdoors. The teachers watch children and listen to children, as when a teacher knows what to look for they will see and hear the learning. We value cognitive, physical and social emotional learning along with literacy and STEM learning. We do not see them separately but see the child and our teaching practice as a holistic approach. The teachers emphasize communication, a relationship-driven learning environment, and exploration in our extensive outdoor setting comprised of fields, trails and woods.We take the best pieces of various programs, but we most closely resemble and emulate the Reggio Emilia approach.
We would love to hear from you with your inquires and any questions regarding our program.
Quick Stats (2025)
- School Type: Alternative School
- Grades: Nursery/Preschool
- Enrollment: 40 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
School Overview
School Type
Grades Offered
Grades Nursery/Preschool
Year Founded
1989
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
40 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
7 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
6:1
National avg.: 13:1
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
What schools are Appletree School often compared to?
Appletree School is often viewed alongside schools like Breakwater School by visitors of our site.
When is the application deadline for Appletree School?
The application deadline for Appletree School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
Endorse Appletree School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles

Social Emotional Learning: Education's Hidden Symphony
A musician's perspective on Social Emotional Learning reveals how this educational framework orchestrates success through five essential emotional competencies.

A Roadmap For Starting A Private School
Use this roadmap as a set of talking points with your trusted mentors and professionals to start the private school of your dreams. You're not alone. Over the years, hundreds of folks like you have had the same dream. From Quintilian to Maria Montessori to Lucy Madeira Wing, visionary educators have established schools to teach according to their beliefs and methodologies.

December 31, 2024
The Spectrum of Islamic Education: From Secular to OrthodoxThis article explores the importance of Islamic K-12 education in today's secular society, providing a roadmap for parents to nurture their children's faith and academic success. Through a question-and-answer format between a parent and an imam, it addresses key aspects such as the types of Islamic education available, when to start, and how to balance religious and secular learning. The essay emphasizes the spiritual and moral benefits of instilling Islamic values in young people, offering practical advice and inspiration for families seeking to raise well-rounded and faithful individuals.