Principal Newsletter // May 19th, 2026

May 18

Dear Appleton Community,

Appleton continues to shine, and we are proud to celebrate an incredible year of achievement! Our school has earned the prestigious John Irwin Award, received our 16th consecutive High Performance School designation, and was recognized across D51 for our outstanding student attendance rates. In addition, national researchers from TNTP recently visited Appleton as a national “Bright Spot” in Mathematics instruction. One of the most meaningful observations they shared was, “Belongingness matters a great deal at Appleton.”

That statement captures the heart of who we are. At Appleton, we believe students thrive when high academic standards are paired with strong relationships, encouragement, joy, and a true sense of belonging. From classrooms filled with rigorous learning and growth to school traditions, celebrations, and daily connections, we work intentionally to create a place where every child feels welcomed, valued, and capable of success. These accomplishments are only possible because of our extraordinary partnership between our PTA, parents and family members, our dedicated and talented staff, and the most amazing students anywhere. Thank you for making Appleton such a special place to learn and grow together!

Summer Learning Kickoff Event!

On May 26th, the PTA will host our Summer Learning kick-off event at the Mesa County Central Library. If you can support this important series of events with any time on any of the dates, it would be greatly appreciated. Every time your child shows up they win prizes. If the school earns enough reading minutes, Mr. Hafey and Mr. Witzel have to be the Popsicle Princesses. Please volunteer for one or more of these dates with the link. Volunteer times include a short set up and clean up time 3:30-5:45.

Sign-up Genius

May 26- 4:00-5:30p - Kick-Off Event initial packets handed out
June 9 - 4:00-5:30p - Packet Exchange
June 23 - 4:00-5:30p - Packet Exchange
July 7 - 4:00-5:30p - Packet Exchange
July 21 - 4:00-5:30p - Packet Exchange
Aug 11- 4:30-5:30 - Final packets turned in at Back-to-School Night
Appletones To Perform At JUCO!

Appleton’s amazing music teacher, Mrs. Hanley, is excited to announce that of the 50 singers and groups who auditioned to sing the national anthem at the Junior College World Series, our own student choir, The Appletones, were in the top 13 who were selected to perform. The Appletones will perform at Suplizio Stadium on Wednesday, May 27 at 2:00pm just before the game starts. What an honor to represent our school, community, and country!