APPLE PROGRAM

In 1977 Spokane Public Schools accepted a proposal from Parents for Alternative Education, a group of parents involved in pre-school co-ops, to organize the first APPLE program.  These parents realized the value of being with their children in an educational setting.  Through love, dedication and commitment they created the APPLE program.

What does APPLE stand for? 

• Alternate Parent Participation Learning Experience

APPLE believes that:

• parents have the right and the obligation to be meaningfully involved with their children's education;
• education is greatly enhanced by the collaboration of parents, students, teachers and administrators;
• elementary education, as the basis for lifelong learning, should emphasize:
  • independent learning
  • cooperative learning
  • social skills
  • engaging students' natural curiosity, and
  • a rich and heterogeneous learning environment

Some APPLE facts:

• APPLE is open to children of all abilities, grades 1-6, who reside within Spokane Public Schools' boundaries at no extra charge.
• APPLE is child, teacher and parent directed.
• Basic academic assessments and curriculum requirements are the same as in all district classes.
• APPLE is non-graded.  Evaluation of individual student progress is ongoing.
• Classrooms are multiage; grades 1 and 2, 3 and 4, 5 and 6 are paired in three classrooms.
• Families are chosen by lottery when numbers of children exceed space in classes.
• There are two sites available making APPLE easily accessible.
• Parents, either individually or by car pooling, provide transportation.
• Parent participation in the program is expected. Parents can volunteer in classrooms and serve on numerous committees.
• Teachers are hired by the school district with parent input.

What are the benefits of APPLE?

On choosing APPLE, families become part of a dynamic, caring community sharing a common goal of enriched learning for children through parent involvement.  Families are welcomed and valued for contributions of time energy, talents and ideas.

The cooperative atmosphere of students, teachers and parents provides a safe, comfortable environment for optimal learning.  APPLE strives to meet individual needs, honor the uniqueness of each child, and embrace diversity.

The consistent presence of parents in the classroom provides children with opportunities to build confidence and positive relationships with adults.  Multiage groupings allow for more individuality and encourage cooperative learning between children of different ages.  Trust and understanding evolve from these personal associations with people of all ages.

Regular contact with teachers, other parents, and students keep families aware of what's happening in the classroom.  This connection sets APPLE apart as a unique experience that allows for expansive and integral learning.

How do you enroll?

• Attend APPLE Orientation at the school district administration building, 200 North Bernard Street, Spokane  WA, in February and sign up for desired sites.
• Observe classrooms at chosen sites.
• Interview with teachers and parent representatives.
• Lottery at this time if prospective students outnumber spaces available.

School with APPLE Programs:

Franklin Elementary · 2627 East 17th Avenue · Spokane WA · (509) 354-2620
Garfield Elementary · 222 West Knox Avenue · Spokane WA · (509) 354-2700