A Message From the Head of the Junior School – Friday, March 8, 2024

On By havergaljuniorschool

Dear Junior School Families, 

Today, on March 8th, people around the world celebrated International Women’s Day. This is  a global day to recognize and celebrate women’s and girls’ social, economic, cultural, and political achievements. It’s also a time to raise awareness of the progress made towards achieving gender equality and the work remaining to be done. 

This morning we were honoured to welcome bariatric surgeon, Dr. Sabrena Noria (Alum, ‘90), and aunt of two current Havergal students to prayers. Dr. Noria shared part of her journey to become a surgeon, highlighting that the path came with ups and downs, and that it was often in moments of failure that she learned the most. She also gave students a lesson in just some of what a surgeon does, complete with showing some of the tools that she uses every day. A huge thank you to Rev. Ruch, for helping to demonstrate how a surgeon prepares, and uses their tools. It was a truly inspiring message for our whole community, and really showcased how Havergal students really do go on to make a difference!

As we head into the March Break, I wanted to take this opportunity to offer a sincere note of gratitude to everyone for such an engaging and productive second term. It continues to be such a pleasure to work alongside the exceptional group of educators that we have here at Havergal, as well as with our curious and capable students, and in partnership with you, our families.

May the March Break provide an opportunity for a slightly slower pace and the time to spend with family and friends, doing what “fills your bucket.” 

Sincerely,

Kate

Today’s edition of “The Weekly” contains information on the following:

LATEST NEWS

Important Provincial Announcement Regarding Measles 

As families prepare for their upcoming March Break, it is important to note that Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health has issued a statement to public health officials regarding the potential outbreaks of measles. If you are planning to travel, we encourage you to visit the following site from ​​Toronto Public Health 

Celebrating the Arts at Havergal (April 8 – April 12)

Havergal is thrilled to be holding “Arts Week” from April 8 – April 12, in celebration of the incredible artistic pursuits that exist across the school. Students will be participating in a series of special workshops throughout the week, meeting and learning from local artists. 

In addition, we will hold a special Prayers in the Junior School on Tuesday, April 9th. We warmly invite you to join us, and to come a little early, so that you can view a selection of artworks installed throughout the halls of our first floor from the many activities, classes and clubs that have taken place this year.  Viewing takes place between 8:00 am and 8:30 am, followed by our Prayers ceremony at 8:30 am. All are welcome!

We also invite you to join us for Annie, our 2024 JS Musical, which can learn more about below.

Annie Kids – The Musical (April 11 & 12)

Havergal Junior School’s performance of Annie KIDS is playing at The Legacy Theatre from April 11 – 12, 2024! Based on the popular comic strip, “Little Orphan Annie,” Annie KIDS tells the story of a spunky Depression-era orphan determined to find her parents, who left her years ago on the doorstep of a New York City orphanage run by the cruel Miss Hannigan. In adventure after fun-filled adventure, Annie foils Miss Hannigan’s evil plans, befriends President Franklin Roosevelt and finds a new family in billionaire Oliver Warbucks, his personal secretary Grace Farrell and a lovable mutt named Sandy. Over 60 students in Grades 4 – 6 have been working hard since November to put together our rendition of this classic musical. 

All students in the Junior School will come to watch one of the performances during school time on April 11 and 12.

Families are invited to join our audience! Performance times are April 11 at 8:45 am, April 12 at 8:45 am and April 12 at 4:30 pm. 

Please stay tuned for information about ticket reservation after March Break. 

Annie KIDS is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International.

For any questions, please contact Paula Carson at pcarson@havergal.on.ca 

New Security in the Green and Gold Shop

In October, 2023, our Facilities team began Phase 1 of the upgrade of our security systems.Upgrades included installation of new security cameras in the corridors and dining hall for both the Upper School and the Junior School.

From March 11, new security cameras will be installed in the Green and Gold Shop in the Upper School. Dressing rooms in the Green and Gold Shop will not be monitored.

These cameras will assist the security team in protecting stakeholders, property and information in a more efficient future-forward manner.

REMINDERS

Registrations and RSVPs to Complete ASAP

Early School Closing on April 8 for Solar Eclipse   

Please note that Havergal will be closing early on April 8 to ensure a safe dismissal during the solar eclipse. 

  • There will be regular classes and lunch from 8 am to 1:00 pm. 
  • Dismissal
    • JK – Grade 3 (1:00 pm to 1:15 pm)
    • Grade 4 – 6 (1:15 pm to 1:30 pm)
    • There is NO PICKUP Permitted between 1:30 pm and 4:30 pm in order to maintain optimal safety
  • All Co-Curriculars, that take place afterschool, will be CANCELLED on this day. This includes: clubs, private music instruction, and Athletics.
  • Gator Care will operate from 1:30 pm to 6:00 pm. Families are asked to sign up in advance and students will remain indoors during the eclipse. Student accounts will be charged accordingly. 

CO-CURRICULARS

Athletics

The last chance to register for Spring Athletics is today!
JS Spring Athletics Registration Form 

Performing Arts & Clubs

NOTES FROM THE HCPA

JS A-mazing Race – Tickets on sale now!

Buy your tickets NOW for the A-mazing Race – Sunday, May 5.

Moms’ Night Out – Thursday, May 23 

Coming soon! Stay tuned for more details.

HCPA Nominations 2024-25

HCPA nominations for the 2024-25 school year are now open! 

WHAT’S ON THE MENU AFTER MARCH BREAK

JS Menu for March 26 – 28 

YOUR CHILD’S PERSONALIZED CALENDAR

Use this link to see a personalized summary of your child’s activities next week, on the Parent Portal.

KEY DATES ON THE HORIZON 

March Break and Easter Long Weekend

  • Friday, March 8 – Last Day of Classes
  • Monday, March 11 – Monday, March 25 (March Break – No Classes)
  • Monday, March 25 – Professional Development Day for Teachers
  • Tuesday, March 26 – Classes Resume
  • Friday, March 29 – Good Friday (No Classes)
  • Monday, April 1 – Easter Monday (No Classes)
  • Tuesday, April 2 – Classes Resume

Wednesday, March 27

  • Parents as Partners – An Evening with David Bott (7pm)

Friday, April 5

  • Grandpals’ Day (10:00 am – 11:30 am) 

Monday, April 8 – Early Dismissal 

  • Please see above for details 

Tuesday, April 9

  • 8:00 am and 8:30 am – Families are invited to stop by the Junior School for a gallery walk, which showcases artworks installed throughout the halls of our first floor from the many activities, classes and clubs that have taken place this year.
  • 8:30 am – 9:00 am – Arts’ Week Prayers 

Annie Kids – The Musical 

  • April 11 at 8:45 am (Legacy Theatre)
  • April 12 at 8:45 am and April 12 at 4:30 pm. 

Sunday, May 5

  • The JS A-Mazing Race (12:30 pm – 4:00 pm)

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