Many of our visitors have commented how surprised they were to find travel time to AppleGate from their place of employment comparable to living in Kentwood, Rockford or Wyoming. Many new companies are relocating to Howard City as well. Tri County Area Schools is a growing district of more than 2300 students. The schools offer a variety of programs. Elementary students receive instruction in music, gym, computers, library and art, in addition to traditional courses.
Similar programs exist at the secondary levels.
In addition, courses in foreign language, industrial arts, home economics, advanced math and physics are found at the high school. Tri County High is a class B school and offers many athletic programs for both boys and girls. The district has opened a separate school in the fall of 1998 for 4th and 5th graders. All of the schools in the Tri-County School district have received accreditation by the North Central Association and the State of Michigan has given each school interim accreditation. The Village of Howard City, local shopping, banks, restaurants and more are directly across the street and within walking distance from AppleGate.