Principal Newsletter // February 18th, 2026

Feb 17

Dear Appleton Community,

Appleton Summer Improvement Projects & Calendar Update

Exciting improvements are coming to Appleton this summer as part of our district bond work. These projects focus on student safety, accessibility, and enhanced learning environments. Planned upgrades include flood control measures for the south building basement—an area that has experienced flooding challenges over the years. Families will also see new ADA-compliant bathrooms in our primary wing, a motorized ADA lift installed in the south gym, asbestos abatement in the primary building, and the addition of a fire sprinkler system in the south building. In addition, the north building will receive a new HVAC system, our library will gain a dedicated maker space, and multiple concrete areas across campus will be improved, along with several other facility upgrades.

To allow staff adequate time to pack, organize, and relocate materials ahead of construction, the last day of school for Appleton students will now be Monday, May 18, 2026, which is two days earlier than originally scheduled.

We appreciate your flexibility and support as we complete these important projects that will benefit our students and school community for years to come.

School of Choice Second Chance – Transfer Requests

Question: What happens if my child is denied School of Choice? Is there any other way to be admitted to the school we want to attend?

Answer: If denied School of Choice, parent/guardians may fill out a paper copy of the Transfer Request for next school year as early as two weeks prior to next school year. This does not guarantee enrollment at Appleton.

PLEASE NOTE: Transportation will NOT be provided for students who live outside of the attendance area and attend school under School of Choice or Transfer.

Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS) Q & A

Q: When is CMAS?

A: Selected dates between April 6-April 24. Students take 3 tests per week for 2 weeks (each test is 65-90 minutes in length) in math and English Language Arts. 5th grade takes an additional 3 sessions of science. 4th grade takes an additional 1 session of social studies.

Please avoid appointments during these dates.

3rd grade tests - April 6,7,8,14,15,16,

4th grade tests - April 6,7,8,14,21,22,23

5th grade tests - April 6,7,8,14,15,21,22,23

Go Bookworms!

Corey Hafey

“Expect Excellence!”

Appleton Elementary School

2358 H Road Grand Junction, CO 81505

Phone (970) 254-6400 Fax (970) 243-6604

Corey Hafey - Principal

Todd Witzel - Assistant Principal