First Steps Academy
First Steps Academy is an award-winning school serving up to 100 children from infants through kindergarten at their family-friendly school in McLean /Tysons Corner. Founded in 2004, First Steps blends the power of purposeful play with a structured curriculum to help each child discover the outside world while cultivating strength of character within.
Located in Silverline Center, a Leed Platinum building in the heart of Tysons near Metro, First Steps provides a perfect place for children of professional parents living or working in the area. Clark Construction Group anchors the Brightline Center with Capital One, Hilton, The Mitre Corporation, Freddie Mac, KPMG, and other companies nearby.
The teachers and staff at First Steps Academy serve and support each family while preparing every child for a successful future.
Merritt Academy
Merritt Academy serves over 400 children from infants through middle school at their suburban campus near the Vienna Metro. Founded in 1963 by Rachel O. Merritt, the school opened as Talent House with a focus on helping each child develop their unique abilities and interests. Today, Merritt Academy offers purpose-built facilities for all age groups over 5 acres, including an outdoor swimming pool, full-sized gym (with sports teams) preschool STEAM Lab, and multiple playgrounds. Proximity to two senior communities enhances the school’s Intergenerational Program. Bus service is available for area families needing transportation. Today, the leadership and staff at Merritt Academy continue to nurture students as individuals to develop their talents, knowledge, and skills. Merritt Academy emphasizes character education, academic excellence and service to families.
Legacy of Our Founders
Together with its two sister schools, Appletree School shares the Legacy of Our Founders:
- Being hospitable to all faith traditions from a base of Christian values
- Encouraging the unique talents and potential of each child in a safe and nurturing environment
- Embracing the joy of learning
- Promoting academic excellence
- Developing the strength of character to make morally sound decisions
- Supporting and serving our families
- Treating the members of our community – students, staff and parents – and the world around us with respect and kindness
- Nourishing compassion and the desire to serve others
- Promoting harmony between the physical, spiritual, emotional and intellectual