My name is Ms. Appel and I’ll be your teacher this year. This is my 7th year in Comstock and my 6th year teaching First Grade. I earned my undergraduate degree in sport marketing from the University of New Hampshire, which is what I originally did for a career. I quickly learned though that teaching was my calling and I went back to school to get my masters degree in Elementary Education from Antioch University New England.

Yes, I didn’t grow-up in Michigan. I grew up in Vermont and would spend my summers visiting family out in Michigan. However the first chance I had to move out to Michigan I jumped at the opportunity and am so happy with the choice to call Michigan my home now.

When I am not teaching I love spending time with my dog, Bella, reading, and travelling to visit my family and friends whenever I can. I also love spending time on the water--either lakes or the ocean.

appelk@comstockps.org

269-250-8625

Hello! My name is Ms. Longo and I will be student teaching alongside Ms. Appel for the rest of the school year. I was last semester's pre-intern and am so excited to have the opportunity to continue my internship with all your wonderful students. After student teaching, I will graduate from Western Michigan University with a degree in Special Education.

I was born and raised on the east side of the state in Troy, Michigan. I have always had a passion for working with, and helping all those around me. So naturally, I moved to Kalamazoo in 2016 to pursue my passion for teaching. I am blessed to have three nephews, one niece (pictured in the photo). In fact, my youngest nephew is in first grade this year! In my free time I enjoy playing music, writing music, reading, and creating new recipes.

At the end of my time here, I hope to inspire a love of learning in my students, and gain valuable knowledge from Ms. Appel and all the wonderful grown-ups in their lives. I cannot wait to meet you all and continue the adventure that is first grade!