AppleTree
AppleTree provides free, high-quality pre-K education to three- and four-year-old children in Washington, DC, using the Every Child Ready instructional approach. Operating since 2005, it runs the largest public preschool program in the city, with 13 campuses offering a play-based curriculum that prepares children for kindergarten.
History of AppleTree
AppleTree has been serving the community since 2005. Over the years, it has grown to become the largest public preschool program in Washington, DC. With a focus on providing high-quality pre-K education exclusively to three- and four-year-olds, AppleTree operates 13 campuses across the city, ensuring access to high-quality early education for children in Wards 1, 3, 5, 6, 7, and 8.
AppleTree Services
AppleTree provides free, high-quality pre-K education for three- and four-year-old children. The organization offers small class sizes to ensure personalized attention. AppleTree also provides specialized instruction and related services for students with special needs as per their Individualized Education Plan (IEP). Additionally, before and after care programs are available, led by AppleTree teaching assistants. Breakfast is provided free of charge to all students during designated breakfast hours.
Every Child Ready Instructional Approach
AppleTree utilizes the Every Child Ready (ECR) instructional approach, which emphasizes social-emotional learning, language, literacy, and STEM. This approach includes a nationally acclaimed curriculum designed specifically for three- and four-year-olds. The aim is to prepare children for kindergarten through evidence-based, play-based learning. ECR also includes a bilingual education program and integrates educational media and family engagement activities through partnerships with Nick Jr.’s Noggin and Sparkler Learning.
AppleTree Campuses
AppleTree operates 13 campuses located in the NE, NW, SW, and SE quadrants of Washington, DC. These campuses serve children in Wards 1, 3, 5, 6, 7, and 8. Each campus is dedicated to providing a fun and engaging learning environment to ensure children receive personalized attention and are well-prepared to enter kindergarten.
Professional Development and Teacher Residency
AppleTree offers a professional development program that includes 75 hours of learning centered on the Every Child Ready instructional model. Additionally, it provides a two-year teacher residency program for novice teachers who aspire to work with three- and four-year-olds in Washington, DC. These programs are designed to enhance teaching quality and support educators in delivering high-quality early childhood education.
Strategic Partnerships
AppleTree has established several strategic partnerships to enhance its educational offerings. This includes collaboration with LENA Grow to boost children's language and cognitive growth, and the Medstar Georgetown Center for Wellbeing in School Environments to implement Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (ECMHC). AppleTree also engages in strategic evidence planning with Project Evident to support the development and implementation of the Every Child Ready instructional model.