When Everything FALLS into Place!

October 2025

Elementary School Associate Principal Elizabeth Retzlaff talked with a teacher and parent about their involvement in making Falloween a success.

---

Falloween at KIS wasn’t just an event – it was a celebration of creativity and community spirit coming together in perfect harmony. With laughter echoing across the campus and pumpkins, costumes, and carnival games filling every corner, this year’s celebration truly lived up to its name. Behind the scenes collaboration is part of the fun too! 

Thoughtful Planning for Engagement
The planning process invited grade level representatives and specialist teachers to develop a variety of engaging, age-appropriate activities that truly appealed to all students. Teachers and the PTO offered feedback to improve Falloween and adapt to the new event space on the field. 
Sarah Friedlander served as Falloween Committee Facilitator and worked closely with Ms. Retzlaff, teachers, and the PTO. Ms. Friedlander says it was incredible to see elementary staff and dedicated parent volunteers working side-by-side focused on one goal: giving our students an unforgettable, fun-filled day. 

From the creative, fall-themed games and crafts led by teachers to the fun carnival on the field run by our PTO, the vibrant energy of the day was a direct result of everyone playing their part. “And the PTO brought the fall vibes! They decorated the hallways and outdoor spaces, transporting us all into this cozy, spooky season,” Ms. Friedlander says.

Joy in Partnership
Elementary PTO President Haley Cho led the parent volunteers. “First of all, it was such a wonderful day!” she says. “Having the event in the open field created an energetic and joyful atmosphere, and it was so nice to see all the students having fun together.”

The PTO was glad to join the planning process and support the school community. “Overall, it was a huge success and such a great celebration of our school spirit,” Ms. Cho says. “Thank you for all your coordination, support, and the trust you give us to help make these events special for the kids.”

Kids said things like, I wish every day was Falloween! and This is the best day ever, I don't want it to end! Teachers and parents are proud to be part of a community that creates special, celebratory memories with our students.

When Planning Meets Purpose
This event was a wonderful example of what happens when a community leads with collaboration and purpose. The structured planning meetings between teachers and parents allowed everyone to lead confidently in their areas and bring it all together for a fun-filled, ‘spook’tacular day. 

Holding the event outside brought a vibrant energy that, combined with perfect weather, made the day even more special. Ms. Retzlaff says, “This is the kind of success that encourages us to dream even bigger for next year!”