AppleTree Early Learning PCS - Spring Valley

At a Glance

AppleTree Early Learning PCS - Spring Valley is a tuition-free public charter preschool serving children in prekindergarten programs for both three- and four-year-olds (PK3 and PK4). Located at 4900 Massachusetts Avenue NW in the Spring Valley neighborhood of Ward 3, this campus is one of 13 AppleTree locations across Washington DC.

As part of the AppleTree Schools network that has been operating in the District for over 25 years, the Spring Valley campus focuses exclusively on early childhood education for preschool-aged children. The school offers families a structured, nurturing first-time school experience that combines academic preparation with social-emotional development and play-based learning.

What Parents Should Know

AppleTree Spring Valley, like all DC public charter schools, participates in the My School DC unified lottery system for enrollment. Families seeking a spot for their three- or four-year-old should submit an application through the My School DC platform during the annual lottery period, typically held in the spring for the following school year. Being a public charter school, there is no tuition cost to families, making it an accessible option for DC residents seeking quality early childhood education.

The grade configuration at AppleTree means families will need to plan for a transition after PK4, as the school does not continue into kindergarten or elementary grades. Parents should consider their options for kindergarten placement well before their child completes the PK4 year, whether that means applying through My School DC to other charter schools or DCPS elementary programs, or exploring private school options.

The Spring Valley location in Ward 3 offers families in Northwest DC convenient access to preschool programming. The Massachusetts Avenue NW address places the school in an established residential neighborhood with proximity to American University and other Ward 3 communities.

AppleTree's focus on three- and four-year-olds means the entire school environment—from classroom design to daily schedules to teaching approaches—is built specifically around the developmental needs of preschoolers. This specialization differs from elementary schools that offer pre-K programs alongside older grades.

Programs and Approach

The Spring Valley campus uses Every Child Ready, AppleTree's research-based instructional program that has been recognized nationally for its approach to early learning. This curriculum is designed exclusively for PK3 and PK4 students and emphasizes social-emotional development alongside early academic skills in language, literacy, and STEM concepts.

The AppleTree model integrates play-based learning as a core component of instruction, recognizing that young children learn most effectively through hands-on exploration and creative activities. Experienced teachers work in small class settings to foster engagement, creativity, and a developing love of learning while preparing children for the academic and social demands of kindergarten.

The program aims to ensure each child develops confidence, curiosity, and foundational skills before transitioning to elementary school. AppleTree's approach balances structured learning activities with opportunities for children to explore, play, and develop relationships with peers and teachers in a supportive environment.

As a public charter school, AppleTree Spring Valley operates with the autonomy to implement its specialized early childhood program while remaining accountable to DC's Public Charter School Board and subject to the same performance standards as other public schools in the District.

Visiting and Contact

AppleTree Early Learning PCS - Spring Valley is located at 4900 Massachusetts Avenue NW in the Spring Valley neighborhood. Families interested in learning more about the program, scheduling a tour, or getting current enrollment information should visit the school's website at https://www.appletreeinstitute.org/spring-valley or call 202-929-0190.