First Steps is the newest member of the Sunrise Senior Living Education Foundation. We are happy to join Merritt Academy and The Appletree School not only to offer excellent care, but also help the development of the whole child. We strive to make sure your child is given daily opportunities to focus on their intellectual, mental, physical, social, emotional and spiritual development.

Legacy of the founders

Merritt Academy was established by Rachel O. Merritt in 1963 and The Appletree School in 1979 by Wilhelmina Klaassen. In 1986 Paul and Terry Klaassen, the founders of Sunrise Senior Living, created the Sunrise Senior Living Education Foundation to guide their mothers’ educational vision. The Sunrise Senior Living Education Foundation (SSLEF) was introduced in 2003 to ensure the legacy of the schools’ founders.

• Be hospitable to all faith traditions from a base of Christian Values
• Encourage the unique talents and potential of each child in a safe and nurturing environment
• Embrace the joy of learning
• Promote academic excellence
• Develop the strength of character to make morally sound decisions
• Provide support and service to families
• Treat the members of our community – students, staff, parents and the world around us with respect and kindness
• Nourish compassion and the desire to serve others
• Promote harmony between the physical, spiritual, emotional and intellectual