The expansion of publicly funded pre-K has created new opportunities for families across our region. At first glance, a free preschool program may seem like the obvious financial choice. But when comparing preschool options and the cost to your family, tuition is only one part of the equation.

Choosing a school is one of the biggest decisions parents make. Every family wants to find the place where their child will feel happy, supported, challenged, and excited to learn. But what happens if the path you choose isn't the right fit? For one Apple Montessori family, the answer was simple: trust your instincts—and remember that it's never too late to make a change.

When people think about programs for infants (and toddlers, too), they often picture feeding schedules, naps, and cuddles. At Apple Montessori Schools, you'll certainly find all of those things—but you'll also find something more: intentional learning experiences designed specifically for little ones.

Every graduation season is filled with celebrations, proud families, and exciting plans for what's next. For us at Apple Montessori Schools, it's also a reminder of something special: every graduate's story began somewhere.

Every year on June 5, World Environment Day serves as a reminder that caring for our planet begins with the choices we make every day. At Apple Montessori Schools, environmental awareness is not reserved for a single day on the calendar—it's a value that is nurtured year-round through hands-on learning, respect for nature, and a deep understanding of our interconnected world.

As we celebrate National Gardening Week, we're recognizing the many ways gardening supports learning, growth, and development in the Montessori environment.

This year, our Apple Montessori community came together once again in an incredible way, raising $15,380 to support families in need. Even more inspiring, this brings our lifetime fundraising total since 2011 to an extraordinary $242,727.

Our recent Professional Development Day in early May brought Apple educators together from across our schools for a day of learning, reflection, and inspiration. Through engaging seminars and collaborative discussions, our teachers deepened their knowledge, explored innovative strategies, and strengthened the practices that help our students thrive every day.

At Apple Montessori Schools, our teachers are so much more than educators—they are guides, mentors, observers, and champions of every child who walks through our doors. During Teacher Appreciation Week, we take a moment to pause and reflect on the extraordinary impact they have.

Get to know Chelsea Etse, Apple's Executive Director of Education, who plays a key role in shaping curriculum, supporting teachers, and ensuring consistency and excellence across all schools.