Grouped by ability
Each child learns in an atmosphere where they feel comfortable and successful.
Preschool in Franklin, WI · Since 1981
Learn. Play. Grow.
The Academy of Preschool Learning — also known as the Apple School — has been guiding curious children through their very first classroom for over four decades.
Individualized
Class sizes
Class sizes are limited so every child receives individualized attention and more opportunities to develop cooperative play with peers.
Experienced
Teaching team
Our curriculum was developed by founders with elementary-education degrees and refined by experienced early-childhood educators.
Legacy
SINCE 1981
Four decades of helping Wisconsin families launch their preschoolers.
The Apple School — teaching preschoolers since 1981.
About APL
Montessori equipment
Hands-on materials that engage all five senses — the way young children learn best.
Our phonics method
A reading-readiness program developed and refined by APL teachers since 1981.
Math readiness
Children grasp abstract concepts through tactile, real-world manipulatives.
Warm & structured
Consistent routines and gentle limits create a safe place to grow.
OUR MISSION
A classroom where children learn deeply, play purposefully, and build a strong academic foundation with confidence.
Reading & math from concrete materials
We believe the old adage: "I Hear and I Forget. I See and I Remember. I Do and I Understand."
Whole-child program
Individualized teaching, group activities, and constructive play — all in one well-rounded day.
A day at the Apple School
Some days look a little different, but here's the standard rhythm children settle into.
- Calendar time
- Topic of the month
- Reading & math instruction
- Fine motor & large muscle play
- Art activities
- Snack time
- Story time
Classes & schedule
September through May.
We offer morning or afternoon sessions at our Franklin location (no transportation provided). Please call between 9am-4pm for information and availability.
AM Session
9:00 – 11:15 AMMonday, Wednesday, Friday
Two or three mornings every week of structured learning, hands-on work, and play.
PM Session
12:15 – 2:30 PMMonday, Wednesday, Friday
Two or three afternoons every week of structured learning, hands-on work, and play.
Open September – May
Call (414) 732-5202 for current availability.
TESTIMONIALS
Trusted by families for over four decades.
"We are so grateful for APL school! We have had the best experience there. Mrs. Balsis and Ms. Kastner are amazing! We have been so impressed with how much our children have learned and it's been a blessing to also watch their confidence grow. We appreciate the transparency at APL, as parents are updated daily on what was done in class for every subject. The learning environment is welcoming, fun and creative, and our children love attending APL! We would highly recommend this program!"
— Angie and Nick K.
"My daughter is my only child and I took the time to tour three preschools in order to decide where to send her for 3k. My priorities were finding a play-based learning and technology-free environment. Not only has APL met and exceeded all my expectations, my daughter has thrived as a student. Ms Balsis and Ms Kastner truly love and guide all the students, creating a classroom that's safe and orderly while also being so fun and creative. I wish all students could begin their education journeys at APL to set them up for a lifetime love of learning and school!"
— Rebecca Gehle
"The growth that we have seen in our twins over the school year has been incredible! We absolutely adore our teachers. The personalized care and attention to each child cannot be beat. The curriculum has been absolutely phenomenal and the class trips are adorable and so much fun!"
— Darren and Melissa Sullivan
"Our family will always choose APL School! Leif is always happy to go on "school days" and his younger brother is always jealous, wanting to stay. Truly a warm and welcoming environment. I can see Leif's confidence shining after nine months of attendance."
— The Armstrongs
"APL was our daughter's first experience being in a school setting. From the first day, the teachers helped her to feel valued and loved. She has truly blossomed. The teachers, system and content at APL are like a well-oiled machine."
— APL Parent
"We have been very pleased with APL School. The teachers are very patient and the kids enjoy the creative way of learning. We were very impressed — our child was reading at 4 years old. Thank you APL."
— APL Parent
School info & forms
Enrollment paperwork & policies.
Review our policies and the Wisconsin child-care forms below. Signing the enrollment form indicates that you have read and accepted our school policies.
Visit us
Schedule a tour today.
We love having visitors. Please call to set up an appointment to visit our Franklin school — we'd love to meet your family.
Sessions
M/W/F · 9:00am – 11:15am · OR · 12:15pm – 2:30pm