Our Story
About Apple Academy Learning Center
Locally and family owned since 1999 and Four-Star Parent Aware rated, we are proud to serve Centerville families.
Our Story
Owner Renee Halley spent many years teaching in the classroom before opening Apple Academy. She wanted to support a growing community by offering quality childcare with many non-standard care options for local families.
Renee has over 30 years of hands-on, center-based childcare experience, and she is supported by a management team with well over 20 years of experience. We are locally and family owned since 1999.
Minnesota license #1053178
We incorporate the nurturing of a home-like environment with the quality of a commercial childcare center.
Safe, fun, and worry-free. A home away from home.
Our Mission
Apple Academy Learning Center provides safe, fun, and worry-free childcare. We incorporate the nurturing of a home-like environment with the quality of a commercial childcare center. Our goal is to give children the tools to be successful and develop a positive self-esteem, using a theme-based curriculum that promotes learning through age-appropriate group and individual activities in reading, science, math, social studies, health, creative arts, and music and movement.
Four-Star Parent Aware Rated
We hold the highest rating in Minnesota's Parent Aware system, the highest rating available. It means we meet quality standards for curriculum, teacher training, and family partnership that you can trust.
Our Teaching Philosophy
Children learn best through play, relationships, and routine. Our ABC 123 Learning Curriculum builds kindergarten readiness on a foundation of trust and joy.
Meet Our Leadership Team
Renee Halley
Owner
Kari Letourneau
Executive Director
Jessica Ness
Director
20
Staff members
30+
Years owner experience
24+
Hours yearly training per staff member
1999
Family owned since
Safety and Security
Your child's safety is our first priority. Every layer below is in place so you can drop off with peace of mind.
Security Procedures
- Fingerprint entry and exit for authorized families
- Anyone new who staff do not recognize must show a valid ID at pickup, even if they are on the approved list
- Cameras in and around the center
- ProCare check-in and check-out
- All staff and third-party vendors are background checked
- All staff are trained in First Aid and CPR and complete at least 24 hours of continuing education every year
- Monthly fire drills and seasonal tornado drills
Health and Allergies
- Staff are trained to administer medication, and two staff are always present when medication is given
- Children with a documented food allergy are served on red tableware, and food is cross-checked by two staff members to avoid allergens
- Parents must notify the center of any contagious illness so other families can be informed
Please notify the center of any contagious illness so we can inform other families.
Every Child Belongs
Apple Academy works with parents, school districts, and specialists to make accommodations for children with special needs, including food allergies, medical needs, and developmental challenges. Every child belongs here.
Our Family of Centers
We are part of a locally owned family of three Minnesota centers, family owned since 1999. If Centerville is not the right fit, our sister locations may be closer to you.
What Parents Say
Ready to see our center in person?
Book a tour and meet the teachers who will care for your child. We would love to show you around.