Apple Academy
from Stepping Stone School
Newly Renovated Campus
Welcome to Apple Academy at Stepping Stone School! Our mission is to provide smart, affordable care! We would love to share a very special offer - Just for you! We are currently launching our elevated Future StrongTM program and we are inviting you to be a founding family!
FIVE Convenient Locations
Our Apple Academy campuses have received state-of-the-art renovations and thoughtful updates, ensuring your child has the best tools for their developmental journey. We have also refreshed our campus, creating a warm, welcoming environment for every child to thrive!
Quality Curriculum
Our Award-Winning Educational Preschool program combines cutting-edge Early Care and Education principles with over 45 years of service to Central Texas families. Our calm, peaceful classrooms are equipped with new, enriching materials to spark curiosity and creativity.
What is The Apple Academy?
We offer a wide variety of schedule options to fit your unique childcare needs, including a design your own schedule option! Click below to tell us how we can support your parenting journey and we will be in touch soon!
Family Friendly Enrollment Options
For a short period of time, you can become one of our Founding Families and receive an Apple Academy pin and Certificate!
We are here to support your Early Care and Education needs!
SIX Convenient Locations!
The Apple Academy at Stepping Stone School has SIX expertly designed, safe, and convenient Central Texas locations, including our newest Apple Academy Preschool in College Station.
- McNeil
6616 McNeil Drive Austin, TX 78729 (map) - North Austin
9914 Woodland Village Dr. Austin, TX 78750 (map) - Lakeline
12301 Hymeadow Drive. Austin, TX 78750 (map) - Hyde Park
1007 E 40th St Austin, TX 78751 (map) - Northcross
8419 Bowling Green Dr Austin, TX 78757 (map) - College Station
900 University Oaks Blvd. College Station 77840(map)
MEET THE LEADERSHIP
Donna Russell
Campus Principal - McNeil
Donna Russell serves as Campus Principal of Apple Academy at Stepping Stone School McNeil, bringing more than 14 years of dedicated service to Stepping Stone School families.
Known for her exceptional kindness and unwavering care for children and families, Donna leads with compassion, professionalism, and a deep commitment to excellence in early childhood education. Throughout her tenure with Stepping Stone School, she has held a variety of esteemed leadership roles, including Campus Principal, Curriculum Coordinator, Quality Assurance Coordinator, and Safety Compliance Officer, giving her a well-rounded and comprehensive understanding of school operations and program quality. Donna is also a recipient of the prestigious Employee of the Year award.
Marisol Cardona
Campus Principal - NW Austin
Marisol Cardona serves as Principal of Apple Academy at Stepping Stone School, bringing more than 13 years of experience in early childhood education and school leadership.
Throughout her career, Marisol has demonstrated a deep commitment to nurturing children’s growth while supporting educators and families through strong, thoughtful leadership. Her experience as both an educator and principal allows her to lead with insight, compassion, and a strong focus on high-quality programming. As Principal, Marisol is dedicated to upholding Apple Academy’s commitment to excellence and ensuring a positive, enriching learning environment for children and families in Northwest Austin.
Brandi Graham
Campus Principal - Lakeline
Brandi Graham is a passionate and experienced childcare professional with over 20 years of experience working with children.
As Campus Principal of Apple Academy at Stepping Stone School Lakeline, she is dedicated to creating a welcoming and nurturing environment where all children can succeed. Brandi’s background includes early childhood education, classroom management, curriculum development and family engagement. With a strong belief that every child deserves a clear path to achieve their dreams, she works closely with families and educators to foster growth and a love of learning. Through her compassionate leadership, Brandi helps uphold Apple Academy’s mission of providing smart, affordable care to the Austin community.
Calen Carroll
Campus Principal - Hyde Park
Calen Carroll is a seasoned early childhood leader with over a decade of experience. As Principal of Apple Academy at Stepping Stone School Hyde Park, she brings deep expertise in early education, team leadership and family engagement.
For eight years, Calen served as a Center Director, overseeing operations, coaching staff, and ensuring curriculum quality and licensing compliance. Her background also includes teaching roles and key leadership positions in customer service, equipping her with strong communication and organizational skills.
With a focus on fostering meaningful connections and high-quality learning experiences, Amanda is dedicated to upholding Apple Academy’s mission of providing smart, affordable care to families across the Hyde Park neighborhood!
Calen is dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment for children and supporting families in the Hyde Park community through affordable, high-quality care.
Connie Davis
Campus Principal - Northcross
Connie is a seasoned and passionate education leader with over 30 years of experience working with children, families, and educators. She has proudly served as the Principal of Apple Academy at Stepping Stone School Northcross since 2024, bringing a wealth of knowledge and a steadfast commitment to high-quality early education.
Connie holds a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Wayne State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary English Education from Michigan State University. Her extensive career includes over 17 years as a Principal and Assistant Principal in public education, where she led campuses serving students in K–8 programs.
Connie is known for her thoughtful, child-centered approach. She creates welcoming learning environments where children, families, and staff feel supported. Connie is committed to fulfilling Apple Academy’s mission of providing smart, affordable care to the Northcross community.
Jade Burns
Campus Principal - University
Jade Burns is a dedicated and experienced early childhood professional who has worked with young children since 2016.
As a valued team member of Stepping Stone School since 2019, she now proudly serves as University Campus Principal at Apple Academy at Stepping Stone School.
Jade holds an Associate of Arts degree and brings a thoughtful, family-centered approach to her leadership. As a mother of three boys, who have all been part of the Stepping Stone School community she brings both personal and professional insight into creating a nurturing, high- quality experience for children and their families. With a passion for supporting growth, learning and connection, Jade is committed to upholding Apple Academy’s mission of providing smart, affordable care to the community.
What other families are saying:
"The Apple Academy is in a perfect location for my family and commute, and the teachers are like a welcoming family"
-Sarah, Parent
"The educators are nurturing and attentive, and the curriculum keeps our little one engaged and excited to learn."
-Michael, Parent