Principal Newsletter // February 13th, 2024

Feb 12

Dear Appleton Community…

Librarian, Sheila Vrooman Opening New Chapter

Appleton’s beloved librarian is opening a new chapter (pun intended) in her career. Sheila Vrooman will take her amazing talents and use them to support new librarians in our district and to help with special library projects. A promotion she just couldn’t pass up. Thank you, Sheila, for going the extra mile to support our students, staff and families for the past 12 years. You truly made an impact on the culture and climate at Appleton with the library as your method of doing so. Kids wanted to go to the library and will certainly recall the positive vibe you created for them as proud Bookworms.

Ever an advocate for the library, you were a catalyst for multiple improvements to the library over the years that made the experience for students, staff, and community guests appreciative of the visual and functional efforts you put into the room. The library was your “baby” and a source of pride for our school.

Finally, we will miss your involvement and engagement in our special events like: the Appleton Carnival, Field Day, and our boisterous assemblies to name a few. Your willingness to serve and lead, supported these events and your ideas made so many of them better than what had originally been planned. We always knew we could count on your enthusiasm and effort.

If Appleton had a Hall of Fame, you would be a first ballot selection. I know we are going to miss your laugh and devotion to Appleton. These are not easily replaced. However, your new position is going to give you the opportunity to share your “Appleton Influence” and I believe I can safely predict that other schools are going to greatly benefit from your mentorship. Thank you for carrying on the Bookworm spirit and best of luck.

Go Sheila and Go Bookworms!

Happy Valentine’s Week! - Planning For Valentine’s Day

Classroom Valentine parties will be Wednesday, Feb. 14 this year. Look for information from your child’s teacher in Tuesday folders.

4th Grade Music Program - February 29 at 6:00pm

Please be aware that the South Gym is NOT handicapped accessible. This historical 1938 gym provides the best viewing for audiences because it has a sound system, stage, bleachers, and a large gym for dances. Please let us know well in advance if there will be a member of your family or a friend who may need help getting up the stairs and we will be ready to help. Our other option is to hold the concert in the North Gym. Due to decorations, props, and moving heavy PA equipment, please give us plenty of notice if we need to move the concert to the North Gym, which is handicapped accessible. We will be happy to accommodate. Thanks so much!

Parking Lot Genius = Turn Right Out of the Parking Lot (even if I need to go left)

Several parents have discovered a super easy way to keep the traffic moving and for many to shorten their morning commute. Turning right out of the Appleton parking lot (even if you need to go left) keeps the traffic moving. Then they turn left on 23 ½ Rd (about 100 yards west from school). This leads them to the I-70 frontage road which takes you to either 23 rd to the west or to the roundabouts by Canyon View to the east. Give it a try.

PTA Meeting in February

Start planning now to attend our PTA meeting in February. PTA is such a crucial part of the student success here at Appleton, and we need YOU to be involved! Plan on joining for about an hour in the library on February 22nd, starting right after school (4:10). It takes all of us working together to keep Appleton a strong and growing place for kids to learn and thrive.