Principal Newsletter // October 27th, 2026

Oct 26

Dear Appleton Families,

Excellent Conference Participation!

Wow! We are excited to share that 94% of our families participated in Parent/Teacher Conferences this fall. That level of involvement is something to celebrate and is a big part of what makes Appleton such a special place for children to learn and grow.

When families and teachers work together, students benefit. Conferences provide an opportunity to celebrate successes, discuss goals, answer questions, and strengthen the partnership that helps every child reach their potential. The message our students receive is powerful: the important adults in their lives are working together because they believe in them.

Thank you for making the time to connect with your child's teacher and for being such an important part of our Appleton community. Together, we continue to create a school where every Bookworm is supported, encouraged, and inspired to grow.

Thank You, Appleton Families!

Final Halloween Week Spooky Rules

Parade - We will have a costume parade out on the north playground,weather permitting at 10:00 am on Friday, Oct. 30. In case of poor weather the parade will be canceled and will not be held in the hallways.
Adults choosing to view the parade or attend classroom Halloween parties should also follow the Halloween costume rules at Appleton (see below).
No weapons or facsimiles of weapons. This includes: all martial arts weapons, bullets, bullet casings, all guns, all bladed props (swords, knives, scythe, tridents, etc.), bows and arrows.
Parents/Guardians - Parents are allowed to participate in person at the parties and the parade. Parents will be asked to sign into the parade (a sign-up table will be set up on the north playground and for parties).

Help Us Get Everyone Home Safely

If your child's after-school plans change, please call the school office before 3:30 p.m. whenever possible. Last-minute transportation changes made just before dismissal can be difficult to communicate to students as our office is managing hundreds of children preparing to head home.

Calling earlier in the day gives our staff the time they need to ensure every message reaches the right student. Thank you for helping us make dismissal safe, smooth, and stress-free for everyone!

Special Thanks to ColdStone’s

Once again, Cold Stone’s Creamery has stepped in support of ice cream with the principal and Appleton Elementary. Owners Linda and Dustin Smith are true friends of Appleton.

Grocery Cards for Needy Families

Dear Appleton Families,

Thanksgiving and Christmas time can be a hard time for many families in our school. Students who normally get lunch and breakfast at school are now home for the holidays and it can be a stretch for families to provide food for their children. Would you like to donate a gift card to a grocery store? We will give gift cards to our families in need just drop them by the Appleton office.

Thank you for your generosity!

-Kate McPhail-Appleton Counselor

Thanks for reading!

~ Corey Hafey

Principal, Appleton Elementary

“Expect Excellence!”