The Orchard Hill Apple Core - Friday, September 25, 2026

Posted Date: 09/25/26 (03:35 PM)

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The Orchard Hill Apple Core

September 25, 2026

From Mr. Tortora

Dear Orchard Hill Families,

I hope you have a great last weekend of September - maybe lots of board games, movies, and indoor fun!

Stay safe!!

- Mike

STAFF SPOTLIGHT

Three adjustable spotlights cast bright yellow beams of light downwards.

Haley Dowty - Grade 5 Teacher

# of years at Orchard Hill and # of years in education? This is my 7th year at OH and 11th year in total.
What do you enjoy most about working at our school? I love the joy and sense of connection I feel every time I walk through the doors. There is such a strong sense of community here, and I truly feel supported by the staff, students, families, and administration.
What inspired you to become an educator (or work in education)? I grew up surrounded by family members who worked in education, but I was also lucky to have some truly amazing teachers who I formed meaningful relationships with. They showed me just how much of an impact a teacher can have on a student.
Where did you grow up? Igrew up in Vernon, CT.
What college did you graduate from? I graduated from the University of Kentucky for my undergraduate degree and received my master’s degree from the University of Saint Joseph.
What was your favorite sport/activity growing up? Horseback riding! I started riding and competing when I was 5 years old and continued all the way through college on my school's equestrian team.
Do you have any siblings? I have two older sisters.
Do you have any pets? Yes! I have a miniature schnauzer named Edna. She’s friendly, playful, and so smart. I know I’m biased, but she really is the most perfect dog!
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go? I love boating, so I’d love to travel around the Mediterranean by boat. I’d love to visit different countries and spend as much time as possible on the water.
If you weren't in education, what would you want to do? I’d be a flower farmer and florist. I’d love to grow my own flowers and then use them to make arrangements for weddings and events.

Upcoming Events

Monday, September 28th

Girls on the Run - 3:40 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Tuesday, September 29th

Girls on the Run - 3:40 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Wednesday, September 30th

Early Release - 12:45 p.m. dismissal

PTO Mad Science Club - 12:45 p.m.-3:15 p.m. (STEM Room)

Thursday, October 1st

Girls on the Run - 3:40 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Friday, October 2nd

Custodian Appreciation Day

Friday Folder Flyers

Heritage Day

PTO Happenings

A movie night flyer featuring Toy Story characters and event details for Friday, Sept. 25th.

September PTO Meeting Minutes

A colorful calendar displays events for Orchard Hill Elementary PTO from August 2026 to June 2027.

PTO Fun Run

A flyer for the Orchard Hill Elementary PTO 2026 Fun Run, explaining the Zeffy fundraising platform, participation options, and contact email.

Fun Run Stats

Fun Run Stats:

$11,419 raised - 52% of our goal

148 students signed up - 23% of students

We would love to get as many students signed up as we can! Please sign up and share your page!!

Sign up here:

https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/peer-to-peer/2026-orchard-hill-fundraiser

Does your company offer donation matches? Look for Orchard Hill Parent Teacher Organization in Benevity!

If we surpass our goal and hit $30,000, Mr. Tortora and Mr. Perry will camp over night at the school!!

A fundraising flyer for Orchard Hill Fun Run Incentives features a thermometer chart with goals and rewards, ranging from Crazy Hat Day to dress-up days.

PTO Book Fair

SAVE THE DATE The Book Fair is Coming to Orchard Hill!

The Fall Book Fair is October 5-9! Students shop during the school week and families can shop during the evenings!

Create your students eWallet to make for an easy shopping day. No need to use cash: https://account.scholastic.com/my-scholastic/profile/ewallet.html?fairID=6206342&sUCN=600043286

- Note Cash, Credit Card, Apple/Google Pay, and eWallets ARE ACCEPTED. :) eWallets are just easy!

Evening Hours on Tuesday 4-7 & Wednesday from 5-7pm! Shop with your entire family!

A colorful flyer for the Orchard Hill Elementary Scholastic Book Fair, detailing dates, times, and participation info.

PTO Fundraisers

Support our Orchard Hill community with these fundraisers that continue all year!

Quick links

OH Spirit Wear: https://teamlocker.squadlocker.com/#/lockers/orchard-hill-elementary-school

Box Tops for Education: Download the Box Tops for Education app in your Apple or Android store.

Car/Fridge Magnets:

Magnet Fundraiser - Orchard Hill Elementary

Mabel's Labels:

Support a fundraiser

Search: Orchard Hill Elementary School PTO

Poster detailing year-round fundraising opportunities for Orchard Hill, including Spirit Wear, Box Tops, Magnets, and Mabel's Labels.

2026-2027 District Calendar