Principal Newsletter // September 29th, 2026

Sep 28

Dear Appleton Families,

Conference Time!

Conferences are October 13 (8am–8pm) & 22 (4pm-8pm).

Did you know that greater than 95% of Appleton parents attend their child’s conference at Appleton? Conferences are a great way to find out your child’s growth, what you can do to help your child, and give you reasons to hug your kid for their effort over the first quarter.

How Do Appleton Students Perform?

At Appleton, we believe every child can grow, achieve, and succeed—and this year's Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS) results are another reason to celebrate!

Across every tested grade level and subject, Appleton students significantly outperformed both the Colorado state average and the District 51 average. These results reflect more than strong academics. They represent the daily commitment of our students, the exceptional work of our teachers and staff, and the incredible partnership we share with our families.

Thank you for reading with your children, helping with homework, encouraging perseverance, and supporting learning at home. Your partnership truly makes a difference.

These outstanding results don't happen by accident. They are the product of a caring school community where students are challenged, supported, and encouraged to do their very best every day. We are incredibly proud of our Bookworms and grateful for the trust our families place in us. Together, we're helping children build the knowledge, confidence, and character they need for success—both in school and beyond.

Way to go, Bookworms! Let's keep getting 1% better every day!

Halloween at Appleton

I know it is a little early but to help in your Halloween costume planning, here are the protocols for our Halloween celebration:

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.
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).

National Custodian Appreciation Day

Friday, Oct. 2 is Custodial Appreciation Day. Mr. Clayton Newitt, Appleton’s Lead Custodian, has a hard job cleaning up after 500 students and staff every day. Yet, he and his team of Brian Russell and Hunter Buniger make our building clean and safe every day. A big Appleton thank you in appreciation to these valuable team members.

No School for Students

Friday, Oct. 9
Monday, Oct. 12
Tuesday, Oct. 13

Good News Club Begins Friday, Oct. 2

Every Friday from 2:00-3:30 (during early release) Appleton hosts The Good News Club. This is a free alternative to extended hours. They provide a Bible story, games, a memory verse, missionary story, small group time, and singing. This is not an activity of the school or D51.

Thanks for reading!

~ Corey Hafey

Principal, Appleton Elementary

“Expect Excellence!”