Applewild is a co-ed, day (18 mos - 9th grade) and junior boarding (4th 9th grade) school that offers a student-centered learning experience with high quality academics, small classes, and extensive arts & clubs on a 28-acre campus in Fitchburg, MA. Applewild's program empowers students to develop their academic abilities, discover their strengths and talents, and practice the school's core values of: respect, fairness, responsibility, compassion, cooperation, honesty, and civic-mindedness.
Applewild students learn in an inclusive global community with peers from 33 towns and several states and countries.
Applewild teaches 8th and 9th-grade students together in a thematic, interdisciplinary loop, a developmentally appropriate way to "launch" students powerfully to secondary school.
Students graduate with strong metacognition skills, with the ability to independently plan, monitor, and reflect on their performance.
Applewild is redefining the dyslexic school experience with our Foundations program for students in grade 2-9 with language-based learning differences.
Our unique structured literacy program provides prescriptive individualized education and participation in the wider school community.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Grades: Prekindergarten-9
- Enrollment: 345 students
- Yearly Tuition: $35,800
- Average class size: 12 students
- Application Deadline: Dec. 15 / rolling
- Source: Verified school update
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-9
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Dyslexia, Language-based
Year Founded
1957
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
345 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
62 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
6:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
12 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Dec. 15 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$35,800
Tuition Notes
K-3rd Day ($25,500)
4th-5th Day ($32,500)
6th-9th Day ($35,800)
Boarding 5-day ($65,500)
Boarding 7-day ($74,500)
Foundations Day Grade 1-3 (Tuition + $17,500 Fee)
Foundations Day 4th-9th ($52,000)
Foundations 5-day Boarding ($74,200)
Foundations 7-day Boarding (83,000)
% on Financial Aid
62%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$15,000
Admissions Director
Greg Miller
Admissions Associate
Miranda Namiotka
Sports
Total Sports Offered
6 sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
7 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Creative Arts Magazine, Student Council, Yearbook
Arts and Music Programs:
Chamber Music Ensemble, Jazz Band
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Alpine Skiing, Equestrian
Creative Arts Magazine, Student Council, Yearbook
Arts and Music Programs:
Chamber Music Ensemble, Jazz Band
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Alpine Skiing, Equestrian
School Notes
- At Applewild we believe that the ages of three to fifteen are the most important in a child's education, the foundation upon which all future success is built. Applewild's program empowers students to develop their academic abilities, discover their strengths and talents, and practice the school's core values of: respect, fairness, responsibility, compassion, cooperation, honesty, and civic-mindedness.
- Applewild students learn in an inclusive global community with peers from 33 towns and several states and countries. We are a metacognitive school and we help each student to become the protagonist in their own education. Students graduate with strong metacognition skills, with the ability to independently plan, monitor, and reflect on their performance.
- Applewild School teaches 8th and 9th-grade students together in a thematic, interdisciplinary loop, a developmentally appropriate way to "launch" students powerfully to secondary school. Applewild graduates are poised to accept the challenge of rigorous academic work and are confident that they can make a difference in the world.
- Our growing residential program welcomes domestic and international students in 4th - 9th grade, with 5 and 7 day junior boarding options. We believe that our residential students do best when gathered together in small family-like groupings. It's not just a place to live, it's a place to grow. Our students develop executive function skills through our high-nurture, highly structured residential program.
- Applewild is redefining the dyslexic school experience with our Foundations program for students in grade 2-9 with language-based learning differences. Our unique structured literacy program provides prescriptive individualized education and participation in the wider school community.
- We offer a year-round program for children ages 18 months5 years on both our Main Campus in Fitchburg and at our Devens Preschool Satellite Location. Our programs build on the natural curiosity and excitement of our students by engaging them in hands-on, active learning experiences.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Applewild School cost?
Applewild School's tuition is approximately $35,800 for private students.
What sports does Applewild School offer?
Applewild School offers 6 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Cross Country, Field Hockey, Lacrosse, Soccer and Ultimate Frisbee.
When is the application deadline for Applewild School?
The application deadline for Applewild School is Dec. 15 / rolling (applications are due on Dec. 15 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).
School Reviews
5 4/15/2020
My daughter came to Applewild for the seventh grade because she wasn't being challenged academically or supported emotionally in our school district. As I look back at the last two years, I am amazed and so very proud of the young woman she has become. She loves Applewild and has truly flourished there. She bounds off of the school bus every morning, excited to start the day. The faculty and staff know our daughter, but more importantly they "get" here. She has achieved academic high honors every semester in seventh and eighth grade. Math, which was her weakness, is now one of her favorite classes. She plays lacrosse and field hockey and starred in the school play this year. The Applewild community has welcomed us with open arms. I am so very glad that my husband and I made this choice for our child and our family.
5 2/23/2019
I went to Applewild from 2001 to 2009, and it was definitely one of the most important places in my childhood. My friends who went to public school or other independents schools are always amazed when I mention something about Applewild. "Wait, you actually liked middle school?" "Wait, you went on that orientation trip to Chewonki in middle school?" A lot of schools can brag about having nice communities, but not that many can back it up - My friends from Applewild have remained some of my closest friends to this day (in fact, I'm even still in touch with multiple teachers) and my experience is not an isolated one. This place is the perfect environment for kids to develop academic, artistic, and social skills.
5 5/12/2017
This year we are looking forward to our daughter portray Queen Elizabeth II in the second grade living wax museum and seeing our fourth grader's creativity come alive for the invention convention. I am so grateful for the creative learning environment that challenges all aspects of learning and character building, especially in regards to public speaking. I strongly recommend taking a look during the school day so you can see the kids and teachers in action. Such an impressive and nurturing school!
5 5/17/2016
Had good orientation trips that our daughter enjoyed and due to class sizes students get a better education that public school but the children are protected from the outside world, cloistered almost and lots of pressure is put on them to succeed. It is all about the school's reputation and protecting it if something goes wrong!!!! For us, it did.
5 5/17/2016
We have truly enjoyed our experience at Applewild. Our son has grown academically in terms of furthering exploration in areas where he succeeds and strengthening areas of weakness. His teachers have taken individual time to help his love for science expand while helping him to overcome challenges and develop confidence and leadership skills. Each student is an essential part of the community as demonstrated through common time, lunch, buddy programs and the arts programs. The education a child receives is wholistic encompassing academics, values and personal growth throughout the school day and curriculum. Every teacher and administrator is compassionate and eager to teach. They have taken the time to become familiar with my son, our goals and our family. It has been a wonderful opportunity to be part of this community. Private school is an investment in your child's future. This has been my wisest investment yet.
Endorse Applewild 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
The Spectrum of Islamic Education: From Secular to Orthodox
This 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.
Private School 101: A Chill Guide to Surviving and Thriving
Heading to private school and freaking out a bit? Chill, dude. This guide's got your back. We're breaking down everything from acing your classes to making lifelong friends, all without the stuffy talk. It's like your cool older sibling giving you the inside scoop on how to rock private school life.
Expelled for Smoking Pot: What Parents Need to Know
We explore the consequences of marijuana use in private schools, discussing expulsion policies, legal implications, and impacts on college admissions. This Q&A format article provides insights for parents navigating disciplinary actions and offers advice on prevention and support for students.