Dear Junior School Families,

The Junior School welcomed Mike Carlson, one of our Indigenous partners, for our Indigenous Flags Assembly on Tuesday. Mike taught us about the Anishinabewaki, Wendake-Nionwentsïo, Haudenosaunee, Métis, Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation & Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami flags in his time with us. Each of the flags was then passed through the audience, where students were invited to send positive energy into each of them. Each flag is now permanently displayed in the JS Gym, as an active invitation to members of the First Nation, Inuit, and Métis peoples that they belong here at Havergal. In addition, they will serve as a reminder of Havergal’s commitment to ongoing truth and reconciliation.

Then, today, we honoured National Indigenous History Month & Indigenous Peoples Day in our JS National Indigenous History Month & Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration, which takes place in June. We welcomed Cree-Métis artist and educator Marissa Magneson and Cree-Métis singer-songwriter, Mathew Magneson for this celebration. This was a time for us to recognize and celebrate the rich diversity, history, heritage, and resilience of First Nations, Inuit and Métis across Canada. We encourage families to learn more, and to discover how you can participate, by visiting the Government of Canada’s National Indigenous History Month Website.

Sincerely,

Kate

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

• Gator Day (Friday, June 7th at the Cohen Field from 12:35 pm – 3:00 pm)
• Please update your daughter’s health records before July 1 on Magnus
• Pizza Lunch is on Monday
• Clearing out the Lost & Found: May 27 – May 31
• End of Year Celebrations
• All Library Books to be Returned by Friday, May 31 
• Co-Curriculars
• Notes from the HCPA
• Celebration Saturday
• What’s On The Menu Next Week
• Your Child’s Personalized Calendar
• Key Dates On The Horizon

LATEST NEWS

Gator Day (Friday, June 7th at the Cohen Field from 12:35 pm – 3:00 pm)

What is GatorDay?

Gator Day extends back to 1935 when students participated in various outdoor activities with their houses for a chance to win the “Gator Day Cup.” It is a day that is filled with a competitive spirit, house pride, and most importantly, FUN! 

Students should come dressed in:

• A House t-shirt, or a t-shirt that is your house colour 
• Havergal shorts, leggings or sweatpants
• Running shoes
• Please refrain from wearing any accessories (ie. necklaces, skirts, hair accessories) as the kids will be very active

Please also bring:

• Sunscreen
• hat (in your house colour if you can)
• hair elastic 
• A labelled water bottle 

Are spectators permitted?

• Yes if you’d like but please watch from a distance and allow your child to participate in the day.
• If you think you will be a distraction then please do not attend  
• There is no parking available on site; We encourage you to visit Spot Angles for tips on where to park nearby 

Please update your daughter’s health records before July 1 on Magnus

Please complete your child’s Vital Health Record and Student Health Tracker in the Magnus Health Portal to ensure the following information is accurate and updated: health history and conditions, allergies, history of concussions, dietary restrictions and administration of medications from Health Centre nurses. 

Parents are responsible for updating the school on any changes in your child’s health status throughout the year by updating information in the Magnus Health Portal. The Health Centre ensures that the health records of students in Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 are accurately and confidentially stored.

Accurate record-keeping helps keep students safe on- and off-site, and it relies on parents being diligent about updating their children’s health information and sharing it with the school. 

We are asking that all parents conduct the year update before July 1, 2024. Access is available as of June 1, 2024. If you completed an update prior to June 1st, we apologize but you will need to re-submit your child’s Magnus profile.

Instructions to log into Magnus can be found HERE.

Please reach out to the Health Centre with any questions or concerns.

REMINDERS

Pizza Lunch is on Monday

A reminder that our last Pizza Month of the Year is on Monday. Students not participating are asked to bring their own packed lunch.

Clearing out the Lost & Found: May 27 – May 31

Claim those missing items that never made it home from school, from Monday May 27 – Friday, May 31. Lost & Found items will be on display in the Arts/STEM hallway throughout the day. Parents and students are encouraged to check for lost belongings. Unclaimed items will be donated to the Clothing Drive at Celebration Saturday, or next year’s Used Uniform Sale.

End of Year Celebrations

We are eagerly planning our end of year events celebrating all that we have accomplished as a community. Please be sure to mark your calendars!

Last Prayers of the Year – Friday, June 7 (8:25 am – 9:00 am – JS Gym)

• This will be our last time coming together for Prayers as a community for the 2023-2024 school year. Parents, as always, are welcome to attend.

Grade 6 Leaving Ceremony – Monday, June 10 (4:00 pm – 5:30 am – JS Dining Hall)

• This event is in honour of our Grade 6 students, and marks the end of their time at the Junior School, before “Crossing the Bridge” to Grade 7.
• Grade 6 students and their families are invited.

Junior School Closing Ceremony – Wednesday, June 12 (2:00 pm – 3:00 pm – Brenda Robson Hall)

• This is a special time for us to come together, one last time in celebration of our year of learning and friendship. Students are asked to come to school, at the regular time, and in their #1 Dress. We will end our day together in song, and reflection.
• Please note the new timing of this event!

Last Day of School – Thursday, June 13 (Early Staggered Dismissal)

• Grade 6 Ghanaian Dance Showcase at 8:30am – Grade 6 Families are welcome to attend.
• Students will come to school for a half day, where they will have an opportunity to say goodbye to their teachers and classmates. End of year certificates will be handed out on this day, and we will take pictures to send to families.
• Early staggered dismissal:
  • JK-Gr.3- 11:15 -11:30
  • Gr.4-6- 11:30-11:45

All Library Books to be Returned by Friday, May 31 

As the school year draws to a close, it is time for these library materials to be returned to their home base. All library books must be returned by May 31st.

If you would like a list of current check outs, please email Ms. Rodd, our JS Librarian  at erodd@havergal.on.ca

Please note that students will be allowed to borrow books over the summer, but only if all books from the school year have been returned. 

Look out for summer reading lists – coming soon!

CO-CURRICULARS

Please note that all co-curricular activities have now concluded! Thank you to our teachers, outside providers, and coaches for helping to make it such a rich and engaging experience for our students. Information regarding next year’s program will be available in our first summer summer, which you can expect in the first week of July.

NOTES FROM THE HCPA

Moms’ Night Out

Thanks to everyone who attended Moms’ Night Out! Click here for photos. (Password: Havergal)

Pre-Loved Uniform Drop Off

Drop off pre-loved uniforms at the Upper School on Wednesday, June 12 (7:30 to 11:30 am in the Rotunda, 8 to 8:30 am in the laneway). Sign up here if you can volunteer. 

Technology Drive

In conjunction with the pre-loved uniform collection, US students will be running a used technology drive. Please help the students and the environment by donating your old technology for recycling. Please click here for more information.

CELEBRATION SATURDAY

Save the Date – Saturday, September 28 from 9:30 am – 1 pm

It’s almost summer but Celebration Saturday is just around the corner. You don’t want to miss this great community event in support of Havergal’s Community Partners. Mark September 28 in your calendar now!

Help needed!

We are looking for a second parent to help out with the Celebration Saturday Bazaar this year. If you are interested in finding out more, please contact Christine Spence (Manager, Parent Relations – cspence@havergal.on.ca) or Steven Rathwell (HCPA Volunteer Coordinator – steven.rathwell@yahoo.ca). Thank you for your support.

WHAT’S ON THE MENU NEXT WEEK

JS Menu for June 3 – June 7

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 

Friday, June 7 

• Last Prayers of the Year (8:25 am – 9:00 am – JS Gym)

Monday, June 10 

• Grade 6 Leaving Ceremony (4:00 pm – 5:30 am – JS Dining Hall)

Wednesday, June 12 

• Junior School Closing Ceremony (2:00 pm – 3:00 pm – Brenda Robson Hall)

Thursday, June 13 

• Last Day of School (Early Dismissal – 11:30 am)

Monday, July 1

• Health Information Must be Updated on Magnus

Dear Junior School Families,

A huge thank you to all of those involved in making Pride Week such a success this year, as we celebrated the theme of “Proud to be Me!” It was wonderful to see our students, faculty and staff across both sides of the bridge engage in learning about the LGBTQ2S+ community, and think deeply about what it means to belong and to be your authentic self. On Tuesday, we shared A Kids Book About Belonging by Kevin Carroll, with our students in Prayers. Here is the introduction for you to take a look at.

“What does it mean to belong? It’s difficult to come up with a simple answer, but each of us (kids and grownups) want to belong somewhere. 

While belonging can be tough to describe, we all know the benefits of belonging. Belonging to a community or group improves your health, happiness, and motivation. When you belong, you realize you are not alone. Having a connection to others helps us understand that all of us can good times and struggles too.

There is comfort in knowing we ALL have this in common. To build community, a sense of belonging, and be comfortable in our own skin is a lifelong endeavour. This book wants to help you on the journey. Your journey! Because belonging starts with YOU!”

By: Kevin Carroll

Sincerely,

Kate

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

• Staff Appreciation Ivy Pub – THANK YOU!
• Welcoming Artist in Residence, Dr. Kofi Gbolonyo, to the Junior School!
• Margaret Taylor Pizza Lunch: Monday, May 27
• Clearing out the Lost & Found: May 27 – May 31
• End of Year Celebrations
• All Library Books to be Returned by Friday, May 31 
• Co-Curriculars
• Notes from the HCPA
• What’s On The Menu Next Week
• Your Child’s Personalized Calendar
• Key Dates On The Horizon

LATEST NEWS

Staff Appreciation Ivy Pub – THANK YOU!

On behalf of the staff and faculty at HC, thank you so much for your generous donations that made last week’s Staff Appreciation Ivy Pub possible. We had a wonderful time and enjoyed great food, music, prizes and each other’s company, all on a beautiful sunny day. To the volunteers who organized, hosted and made dumplings, thank you for your time, energy, enthusiasm and kindness—it was very much appreciated. 

Welcoming Artist in Residence, Dr. Kofi Gbolonyo, to the Junior School!

We welcomed Dr. Kofi Gbolonyo to the Junior School on Tuesday, May 21. He is an artist in residence working with our students until June 13th. Kofi will be working with our students during their regular Music and Integrated Arts classes and there will be a showcase of learning during The Grade 6 Celebration, Junior School Closing Ceremony and the Final Junior School Assembly on June 13th. 

Dr. Kofi Gbolonyo 

Kofi Gbolonyo is a scholar, educator, and performer whose primary research, expertise, and educational interests are in West African traditional music and dance, Ewe indigenous knowledge, language and culture, Orff-Schulwerk pedagogy, multicultural music education, Ghanaian brass band and choral music. His scholarship focuses on indigenous knowledge and cultural values in the musical practices of the Ewe and Fon of West Africa. He is currently a professor at Capilano University and The University of British Columbia.

Gbolonyo enjoys teaching children and is the founder/director of the Nunya Music Academy and the Ghana School Project. He also co-founded and directs Adanu Habobo and the Orff-Afrique Summer Programs in Ghana. He is a teaching staff of the World Music Drumming Workshops Ltd.

Gbolonyo is an internationally recognized Orff-Schulwerk music educator and a seasoned clinician who conducts workshops and gives presentations all over the world. He is an advocate of multicultural music education and has taught at different levels of education in Ghana, other countries in West Africa, Europe, South America, East and Southeast Asia, the United States and Canada. He performs regularly and presents workshops and scholarly papers at annual meetings of many professional associations.

Gbolonyo holds a Ph.D. (2009) and an MA (2005) in Ethnomusicology and a Graduate Certificate in African Studies (2009) at the doctoral level from the University of Pittsburgh; an Orff-Schulwerk Certificate Level III (2008) from San Francisco International Orff Course; a BA (Hons. 2002) in Linguistics and Music from the University of Ghana, Legon; a Professional Dip.Ed (1997) in Ewe Language and Music Education from the University of Education, Winneba, Ghana; and a Professional Teacher’s Certificate A (1990) from E.P. College of Education, Amedzofe, Ghana.

REMINDERS

Margaret Taylor Pizza Lunch: Monday, May 27

Students from Margaret Taylor will celebrate being the winning house at the A-mazing Race with a pizza lunch party in the multi-purpose room. Chartwells are aware of the dietary restrictions and allergies of students in this house, and have planned accordingly.

Clearing out the Lost & Found: May 27 – May 31

Claim those missing items that never made it home from school, from Monday May 27 – Friday, May 31. Lost & Found items will be on display in the Arts/STEM hallway throughout the day. Parents and students are encouraged to check for lost belongings. Unclaimed items will be donated to the Clothing Drive at Celebration Saturday, or next year’s Used Uniform Sale.

End of Year Celebrations

We are eagerly planning our end of year events celebrating all that we have accomplished as a community. Please be sure to mark your calendars!

Last Prayers of the Year – Friday, June 7 (8:25 am – 9:00 am – JS Gym)

• This will be our last time coming together for Prayers as a community for the 2023-2024 school year. Parents, as always, are welcome to attend.

Grade 6 Leaving Ceremony – Monday, June 10 (4:00 pm – 5:30 am – JS Dining Hall)

• This event is in honour of our Grade 6 students, and marks the end of their time at the Junior School, before “Crossing the Bridge” to Grade 7.
• Grade 6 students and their families are invited.

Junior School Closing Ceremony – Wednesday, June 12 (2:00 pm – 3:00 pm – Brenda Robson Hall)

• This is a special time for us to come together, one last time in celebration of our year of learning and friendship. Students are asked to come to school, at the regular time, and in their #1 Dress. We will end our day together in song, and reflection.
• Please note the new timing of this event!

Last Day of School – Thursday, June 13 (Early Staggered Dismissal)

• Students will come to school for a half day, where they will have an opportunity to say goodbye to their teachers and classmates. End of year certificates will be handed out on this day, and we will take pictures to send to families.
• Early staggered dismissal:
  • JK-Gr.3- 11:15 -11:30
  • Gr.4-6- 11:30-11:45

All Library Books to be Returned by Friday, May 31 

The library has seen a flurry of activity this year, with thousands of books shared amongst our community. Thank you to everyone for taking care of these little pieces of the library as they’ve passed through the hands of students. 

As the school year draws to a close, it is time for these library materials to be returned to their home base. All library books must be returned by May 31st.

If you would like a list of current check outs, please email Ms. Rodd, our JS Librarian  at erodd@havergal.on.ca

Please note that students will be allowed to borrow books over the summer, but only if all books from the school year have been returned. 

Look out for summer reading lists – coming soon!

CO-CURRICULARS

Athletics

 JS Athletics Schedule  

Wow! What a week it has been! 

Congratulations to the U12 Softball Team who competed at BSS on Thursday. Havergal had more students participating in Softball than any other CISAA School! In fact, we had so many students wishing to participate that we had to create two teams! 

Our U12 Ultimate Team competed on Thursday against other co-ed schools. Their progress throughout the season was incredible as on the final day all 3 games came down to overtime!  They had fantastic match-ups between Moncrest and TMS and they went on to defeat TFS! 

Finally, congratulations to the U12 Track Team who competed in their final event of the season on Tuesday, May 21st. Many participants reached their personal best height, length or time and built their confidence as they sprinted past the finish line. 

A shout-out to the following who came FIRST in the CISAA: 

This is remarkable! 

• Charlotte G in High Jump, Hurdles, 400m and 200m! Wow! 
• Brook B in High Jump
• Courtney E in Hurdles
• Carol G in Discus
• Quinn P in Shot Put
• Colleen K in Hurdles
• Suki G in Shot Put
• Kyra T in High Jump 
• Ayda A in Javelin
• The entire U11 RELAY TEAM! 

Performing Arts & Clubs

• A huge thank you to our faculty and instructors for leading such creative and engaging clubs for the students.
• If you have any suggestions for next year: please contact: srobertson@havergal.on.ca

NOTES FROM THE HCPA

JS A-mazing Race

Thanks to everyone who organized, volunteered for and attended the JS A-mazing Race! Click here for photos of this fun event.

WHAT’S ON THE MENU NEXT WEEK

JS Menu for May 27 – May 31 

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 

Friday, June 7 

• Last Prayers of the Year (8:25 am – 9:00 am – JS Gym)

Monday, June 10 

• Grade 6 Leaving Ceremony (4:00 pm – 5:30 am – JS Dining Hall)

Wednesday, June 12 

• Junior School Closing Ceremony (2:00 pm – 3:00 pm – Brenda Robson Hall)

Thursday, June 13 

• Last Day of School (Early Dismissal – 11:30 am)

Dear Junior School Families,

Today’s House Shout brought together our whole school, from JK to Grade 12 to celebrate everyone’s House Pride and to engage in a little friendly competition. It was wonderful to see everyone on The Ratcliffe Field, cheering and showing off some Havergal spirit! Our Junior School students absolutely blew everyone away with their house cheers, led by our Grade 6s and JS Prefects. It was a wonderful way to welcome in the May long weekend! Please be sure to check out HC’s social media platforms for videos and pictures of the fun.

Wishing you all a happy, healthy, and sunny long few days with family and friends.

Sincerely,

Kate

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

• Use of Digital Devices and Smartphones at Havergal College 
• Pride Week (May 21 – May 24)
• Clearing out the Lost & Found: May 27 – May 31
• End of Year Celebrations
• All Library Books to be Returned by Friday, May 31 
• Co-Curriculars
• Notes from the HCPA
• What’s On The Menu Next Week
• Your Child’s Personalized Calendar
• Key Dates On The Horizon

LATEST NEWS

Use of Digital Devices and Smartphones at Havergal College 

There has been much attention to the use of smartphones and other digital devices in schools in recent months.

Havergal has always had a thoughtful approach regarding the use of devices in school, and we are carefully reviewing our current policies and practices. We will be communicating any updates to these, with our families and students in advance of the next school year.

In the meantime, we wanted to share the following resource with you, that is a Family Digital Wellness Guide for Families, with children aged 6 – 12. It includes sections on “What the Science Says,” “Best Practices,” and other resources. Finally, we also invite you to listen to this episode of The Harvard Edcast, which provides you with some ideas for device usage over the summer

Pride Week (May 21 – May 24)

Havergal will be celebrating pride next week! We are excited to have this opportunity to honour the LGBTQ2S+ community, and their many contributions locally, nationally and abroad. Our theme this year is once again, “Proud to be Me.” Throughout the week, students will engage in activities, using the Ontario Curriculum as a reference point, asking students to reflect on the things that make them proud to be just who they are. By developing a better understanding of who we are as individuals, as well as who others are, we are building a community that fosters equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging for all.

Here is the schedule of the activities for the week:

Tuesday, May 21 – Dress Down Day  (JK – Grade 6)

• All students are invited to come to school wearing something that makes them feel proud to be who they are. “Proud To Be Me”  stickers, designed and created by Upper School Students will also be available for all students.
• 8:25 – 8:55 am Prayers (Grade 1 – Grade 6)
  • This will act as the launch to Pride Week. The focus will be on what it means to be yourself, and how it feels to belong. Students will also be asked to consider what it might feel like, to NOT feel like you belong.
• Lunch Recess:
  • Optional “Sidewalk Chalk Celebration” (Grade 1 – 6) – students will be invited to create messages of support and kindness on the pavement, at the front and back of the Junior School.  

Wednesday, May 22

• 8:25 am – 8:55
  • Students In Grades 1 – 6 will learn about the history of the Progress Flag, as well as what each of the colours, and symbols represent.
• Morning Recess:
  • Optional “Proud to be Me” Button Making (Grades 1 – 6)

Thursday, May 23

• 8:25 am – 8:55
  • Students in Grades 1 – 4 will engage in a writing activity, with the prompt “What Makes me Proud to be Me?”
  • Students in Grades 5 & 6 will take time to reflect on who they are, and write a letter to either their past self or their future self.
• Morning Recess:
  • Optional Read-aloud in the Library (Grades 1 – 4)

Friday, May 24

• 8:25 am – 8:55 am Prayers (JK  – 6)
  • This will be a culminating celebration of the week. Students, faculty and staff will be learning a little more about the history of Pride Week. We will also have members of our community (students, faculty and staff) sharing some of the different things that make up their identities, and the things that make them proud to be who they are.
• Lunch Recess:
  • Optional “Pride Week Wonderings” (Grades 5 & 6); Students wishing to participate will receive a form where they can ask any questions they have about Pride Week, prior to coming together for this session. Then, led by Ms. White and Ms. Watt, along with several Upper School students from the Pride Week Committee, will have an opportunity to discuss their wonderings. 

Equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging are essential components of Havergal’s Mission – to prepare young women to make a difference, as well as our core values (courage, compassion, integrity, and inquiry). Families also play an important role in this. Here are some resources that we invite you to take a look at for your own learning, and to consider how they might support you in potential future discussions with your child(ren). 

• 6 tips for talking about Pride month and LGBTQ+ rights with kids 
• Defining LGBTQ+ Terms for Elementary School Children 
• Why Is The Pride Flag Rainbow? A Video 
• They, them, their — why some people use these pronouns instead of he or she CBC Kids 
• Do you know what two-spirit means? CBC Kids 
• Pride Week 2024 HC Junior School – Book List for Families 

REMINDERS

Clearing out the Lost & Found: May 27 – May 31

Claim those missing items that never made it home from school, from Monday May 27 – Friday, May 31. Lost & Found items will be on display in the Arts/STEM hallway throughout the day. Parents and students are encouraged to check for lost belongings. Unclaimed items will be donated to the Clothing Drive at Celebration Saturday, or next year’s Used Uniform Sale.

End of Year Celebrations

We are eagerly planning our end of year events celebrating all that we have accomplished as a community. Please be sure to mark your calendars!

Last Prayers of the Year – Friday, June 7 (8:25 am – 9:00 am – JS Gym)

• This will be our last time coming together for Prayers as a community for the 2023-2024 school year. Parents, as always, are welcome to attend.

Grade 6 Leaving Ceremony – Monday, June 10 (4:00 pm – 5:30 am – JS Dining Hall)

• This event is in honour of our Grade 6 students, and marks the end of their time at the Junior School, before “Crossing the Bridge” to Grade 7.
• Grade 6 students and their families are invited.

Junior School Closing Ceremony – Wednesday, June 12 (2:00 pm – 3:00 pm – Brenda Robson Hall)

• This is a special time for us to come together, one last time in celebration of our year of learning and friendship. Students are asked to come to school, at the regular time, and in their #1 Dress. We will end our day together in song, and reflection.
• Please note the new timing of this event!

Last Day of School – Thursday, June 13 (Early Staggered Dismissal)

• Students will come to school for a half day, where they will have an opportunity to say goodbye to their teachers and classmates. End of year certificates will be handed out on this day, and we will take pictures to send to families.
• Early staggered dismissal:
  • JK-Gr.3- 11:15 -11:30
  • Gr.4-6- 11:30-11:45

All Library Books to be Returned by Friday, May 31 

The library has seen a flurry of activity this year, with thousands of books shared amongst our community. Thank you to everyone for taking care of these little pieces of the library as they’ve passed through the hands of students. 

As the school year draws to a close, it is time for these library materials to be returned to their home base. All library books must be returned by May 31st.

If you would like a list of current check outs, please email Ms. Rodd, our JS Librarian  at erodd@havergal.on.ca

Please note that students will be allowed to borrow books over the summer, but only if all books from the school year have been returned. 

Look out for summer reading lists – coming soon!

CO-CURRICULARS

Athletics

•  JS Athletics Schedule  

Good Luck to the following teams with their Final Meets and Tournaments of the season:
  

• U12 Track and Field Team at York University on Tuesday, May 21st. 
• U12 Ultimate Team at Havergal Cohen Field on Thursday, May 23rd. 
• U12 Softball Team at BSS on Thursday, May 23rd. 

Performing Arts & Clubs

• Performing Arts and Clubs have wrapped up for the term except Teaching Kitchen which ends Thursday, May 23.
• If you have any suggestions for next year: please contact: srobertson@havergal.on.ca

NOTES FROM THE HCPA

Moms’ Night Out – Thursday, May 23

Ticket sales close today! Click here to purchase.

WHAT’S ON THE MENU NEXT WEEK

JS Menu for May 21 – 24 

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 

Friday, May 17 

• School Closed – Victoria Day Long Weekend (No classes)

Monday, May 20 

• School Closed – Victoria Day Long Weekend (No classes)

Tuesday, May 21 (Pride Week)

• Classes Resume
• Dress-Down Day
  • Students are invited to dress in something that makes them feel proud to be themselves.

Thursday, May 23 

• Moms’ Night Out 

Monday, March 27

• Pizza Lunch for students in Margaret Taylor

Friday, June 7 

• Last Prayers of the Year (8:25 am – 9:00 am – JS Gym)

Monday, June 10 

• Grade 6 Leaving Ceremony (4:00 pm – 5:30 am – JS Dining Hall)

Wednesday, June 12 

• Junior School Closing Ceremony (2:00 pm – 3:00 pm – Brenda Robson Hall)

Thursday, June 13 

• Last Day of School (Early Dismissal – 11:30 am)

Dear Junior School Families,

My name is Maria, and I am  the Junior School Head for a day!  

I enjoyed seeing students at drop off this morning, and getting to say goodbye at the end of the day.

This morning in prayers I announced that students in Margaret Taylor are the proud winners of the Pizza Lunch Party, from the A-Mazing Race. This will take place on May 27 at lunch time. In the afternoon, I met with Ms. Watt and discussed some ideas to make the school a better place. Next week I will share what we talked about in Prayers.

I hope Ms. White had a good day off and got to relax in the Bahamas!

Sincerely,

Kate

Maria (JS Head for the Day)

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

• House Shout: Thursday, May 16 (1:50 pm – 3:15 pm) House Colour Day
• Pride Week: Tuesday, May  21 – Friday, May 24
• Margaret Taylor Pizza Lunch: Monday, May 27
• Clearing out the Lost & Found: May 27 – May 31
• End of Year Celebrations – UPDATE
• All Library Books to be Returned by Friday, May 31
• Co-Curriculars
• Notes from the HCPA
• What’s On The Menu Next Week
• Your Child’s Personalized Calendar
• Key Dates On The Horizon

LATEST NEWS

House Shout: Thursday, May 16 (1:50 pm – 3:15 pm) House Colour Day

House shout is an annual whole school event  where students come together to showcase their house pride, and engage in a little friendly competition between houses. Students come to school in full house wear. 

The Junior School will kick off the event with their individual House Cheers, led by our Junior School Prefects, Hannah and Jane. We are beaming with excitement for Thursday May 16th, at 1:50 pm, when we will all come together as a community on Ratcliffe Field for this eagerly anticipated event. 

Please Note:

What to wear:

• This is a full dress down day! Students are invited to show their house spirit, from head to toe.

Timing:

• 1:50 pm
  • Students (JK – Grade 6) will walk over to the field in their houses
• 1:50-2:30
  • The JS presents our cheer right at 1:50 and the students are invited to sit with their houses to watch the US cheers.
• 2:30 -3:00pm
  • JK – Grade 1 students will walk back to the Junior School at 2:30pm
  • Gr.2 – 3 students will walk back to the Junior School at 2:45 pm
  • Gr.4-6 students will walk back to the Junior School at 3:00pm

Who Can Come?

• This is a community day, and as such parents are welcome to attend and see HC’s House Spirit in action! 
• Should you be able to attend, we kindly ask that you meet us at the field, and go to the top of the hill, or stand on the side, and not with the students.
•  JS students will walk back to the JS in time for a regular dismissal. 
• We ask that you meet them at the Junior School, so we can have a safe and efficient dismissal.

Pride Week: Tuesday, May  21 – Friday, May 24

Havergal is excited to be celebrating Pride Week from Tuesday, May 21 – Friday, May 24. Our theme this year is once again, “Proud to be Me,” and is an important opportunity for us to come together as a community to promote equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging for all. 

Our Pride Planning Committee (Ms. Watt – JS Assistant Head, Ms. Fournier – JS Child and Youth Worker, Ms. Abebe – Grade 5 Teacher, Mme. Scharf – French Teacher, Ms. Kaba – Co-ordinator of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging, in collaboration with myself and Ms. Cozier – Executive Director of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging) have been carefully planning a variety of age appropriate activities to engage our students throughout the week. 

These will include: opportunities to learn about the history and significance of pride, and the many contributions of LGBTQ2S+ community, specially chosen read-aloud by teachers (we will be sharing the list with parents prior to Pride Week) with guiding questions, time to participate in art activities, as well as opportunities to reflect and celebrate what makes each student uniquely themselves, and why it is important to accept and respect what makes others unique.

Margaret Taylor Pizza Lunch: Monday, May 27

Students from Margaret Taylor will celebrate being the winning house at the A-mazing Race with a pizza lunch party in the multi-purpose room.

Clearing out the Lost & Found: May 27 – May 31

Claim those missing items that never made it home from school, from Monday May 27 – Friday, May 31. Lost & Found items will be on display in the Arts/STEM hallway throughout the day. Parents and students are encouraged to check for lost belongings. Unclaimed items will be donated to the Clothing Drive at Celebration Saturday, or next year’s Used Uniform Sale.

REMINDERS

End of Year Celebrations – UPDATE

We are eagerly planning our end of year events celebrating all that we have accomplished as a community. Please be sure to mark your calendars!

Last Prayers of the Year – Friday, June 7 (8:25 am – 9:00 am – JS Gym)

• This will be our last time coming together for Prayers as a community for the 2023-2024 school year. Parents, as always, are welcome to attend.

Grade 6 Leaving Ceremony – Monday, June 10 (4:00 pm – 5:30 am – JS Dining Hall)

• This event is in honour of our Grade 6 students, and marks the end of their time at the Junior School, before “Crossing the Bridge” to Grade 7.
• Grade 6 students and their families are invited.

Junior School Closing Ceremony – Wednesday, June 12 (2:00 pm – 3:00 pm – Brenda Robson Hall)

• This is a special time for us to come together, one last time in celebration of our year of learning and friendship. Students are asked to come to school, at the regular time, and in their #1 Dress. We will end our day together in song, and reflection.
• Please note the new timing of this event!

Last Day of School – Thursday, June 13 (Early Staggered Dismissal)

• Students will come to school for a half day, where they will have an opportunity to say goodbye to their teachers and classmates. End of year certificates will be handed out on this day, and we will take pictures to send to families.
• Early staggered dismissal:
  • JK-Gr.3- 11:15 -11:30
  • Gr.4-6- 11:30-11:45

All Library Books to be Returned by Friday, May 31 

The library has seen a flurry of activity this year, with thousands of books shared amongst our community. Thank you to everyone for taking care of these little pieces of the library as they’ve passed through the hands of students. 

As the school year draws to a close, it is time for these library materials to be returned to their home base. All library books must be returned by May 31st.

If you would like a list of current check outs, please email Ms. Rodd, our JS Librarian  at erodd@havergal.on.ca

Please note that students will be allowed to borrow books over the summer, but only if all books from the school year have been returned. 

Look out for summer reading lists – coming soon!

CO-CURRICULARS

Athletics

•  JS Athletics Schedule  

Congratulations to the U12 Ultimate team for having their first games of this season on Thursday. We are so luck to have Team Canada member Monica Wang as our head coach! 

Performing Arts & Clubs

• Performing Arts and Clubs have wrapped up except Monday clubs which finish on Monday, May 6 and Session B of Teaching Kitchen which ends Thursday, May 23.
• Performing Arts & Clubs Schedule 
• If you have any questions: please contact: srobertson@havergal.on.ca

NOTES FROM THE HCPA

Moms’ Night Out – Thursday, May 23

Ticket sales close today! Click here to purchase.

WHAT’S ON THE MENU NEXT WEEK

JS Menu: May 13 – 17 

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 

Thursday, May 16

• House Shout  (1:00 pm – 3:00 pm) details to follow

Friday, May 17 

• School Closed – Victoria Day Long Weekend (No classes)

Monday, May 20 

• School Closed – Victoria Day Long Weekend (No classes)

Tuesday, May 21

• Classes Resume

Thursday, May 23 

• Moms’ Night Out 

Friday, June 7 

• Last Prayers of the Year (8:25 am – 9:00 am – JS Gym)

Monday, June 10 

• Grade 6 Leaving Ceremony (4:00 pm – 5:30 am – JS Dining Hall)

Wednesday, June 12 

• Junior School Closing Ceremony (2:00 pm – 3:00 pm – Brenda Robson Hall)

Thursday, June 13 

• Last Day of School (Early Dismissal – 11:30 am)

Dear Junior School Families,

It appears that Spring has finally sprung, and it has been so lovely to see our students enjoying time out of the building, both at recess, as well as at track meets and softball games. Last night we were also thrilled to host an event for “New to Havergal Junior School” families. They were beaming with excitement to start building connections. With close to 70 new students joining us next year, I know that both you and your daughters will go out of your way to welcome everyone to Havergal in the Fall.

To all those Leaf fans, I hope last night’s win was exciting, and that you’re looking forward to the game tomorrow night!

Sincerely,

Kate

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

• End of Year Celebrations
• All Library Books to be Returned by Friday, May 31 
• Battery Recycling Program
• General Appearance – Jewelry and Make-Up
• Pizza Lunch is on Monday
• Baldassarra Playscape – Thursday, May 9th (8:30 am – 9:30 am) 
• Notes from the HCPA
• What’s On The Menu Next Week
• Your Child’s Personalized Calendar
• Key Dates On The Horizon

LATEST NEWS

End of Year Celebrations – UPDATE

We are eagerly planning our end of year events celebrating all that we have accomplished as a community. Please be sure to mark your calendars!

Last Prayers of the Year – Friday, June 7 (8:25 am – 9:00 am – JS Gym)

• This will be our last time coming together for Prayers as a community for the 2023-2024 school year. Parents, as always, are welcome to attend.

Grade 6 Leaving Ceremony – Monday, June 10 (4:00 pm – 5:30 pm – JS Dining Hall)

• This event is in honour of our Grade 6 students, and marks the end of their time at the Junior School, before “Crossing the Bridge” to Grade 7.
• Grade 6 students and their families are invited.

Junior School Closing Ceremony – Wednesday, June 12 (2:00 pm – 3:00 pm – Brenda Robson Hall)

• This is a special time for us to come together, one last time in celebration of our year of learning and friendship. Students are asked to come to school, at the regular time, and in their #1 Dress. We will end our day together in song, and reflection.
• Please note the new timing of this event!

Last Day of School – Thursday, June 13 (Early Staggered Dismissal)

• Students will come to school for a half day, where they will have an opportunity to say goodbye to their teachers and classmates. End of year certificates will be handed out on this day, and we will take pictures to send to families.
• Early staggered dismissal:
  • JK-Gr.3- 11:15 -11:30
  • Gr.4-6- 11:30-11:45

All Library Books to be Returned by Friday, May 31 

The library has seen a flurry of activity this year, with thousands of books shared amongst our community. Thank you to everyone for taking care of these little pieces of the library as they’ve passed through the hands of students. 

As the school year draws to a close, it is time for these library materials to be returned to their home base. All library books must be returned by May 31st.

If you would like a list of current check outs, please email Ms. Rodd, our JS Librarian  at erodd@havergal.on.ca

Please note that students will be allowed to borrow books over the summer, but only if all books from the school year have been returned. 

Look out for summer reading lists – coming soon!

Battery Recycling Program

When students in Grade 4 learned that batteries thrown in the trash or recycling bin can spark and possibly cause a fire and that those that end up in our landfills can be harmful to wildlife and the environment, they were inspired to take action. Thanks to their efforts, Havergal now has its very own battery recycling bin. Simply bring in your old or used batteries, place them in the bin just outside the gym, and we will ensure they get processed appropriately. 

General Appearance – Jewelry and Make-Up

Wearing the school uniform with pride is one of the ways that we show our commitment to Havergal’s values – integrity, inquiry, compassion and courage. As such, Junior School students should not be wearing any makeup, nor should they be wearing acrylic or bio gel nails. Any nail polish should be neutral in colour. In terms of jewellery, only small stud or small hoop earrings should be worn, and only a bracelet or necklace that can be worn under sleeves or collar are permitted.

REMINDERS

Pizza Lunch is on Monday

Students enrolled in Pizza lunch will get to enjoy this special treat on Monday! 

Baldassarra Playscape – Thursday, May 9th (8:30 am – 9:30 am) RSVP HERE 

With warmer weather now upon us, Havergal College is excited to officially celebrate the new play structure for the Junior School. The “Baldassarra Playscape ” parent event will take place on Thursday, May 9th, from 8:30 am to 9:30 am. 

We cordially invite parents and guardians to join us for a coffee reception hosted by the Principal, Dr. Katrina Samson and Ms. Kate White, the Head of the Junior School. This event is a celebration of a great initiative for the girls and a heartfelt thank you to everyone who supported this project from faculty and staff to families who also served as donors. Following the reception, guests will have the chance to explore the Playscape area. 

CO-CURRICULARS

Athletics

•  JS Athletics Schedule  

Performing Arts & Clubs

• Performing Arts and Clubs have wrapped up except Monday clubs which finish on Monday, May 6 and Session B of Teaching Kitchen which ends Thursday, May 23.
• Performing Arts & Clubs Schedule 
• If you have any questions: please contact: srobertson@havergal.on.ca

NOTES FROM THE HCPA

JS A-mazing Race – Sunday, May 5

We are still looking for a few more parent volunteers for the Race. Please sign up HERE if you can help out. 

Moms’ Night Out – Thursday, May 23

Tickets are still available for MNO. Click HERE to purchase. 

WHAT’S ON THE MENU NEXT WEEK

JS Menu_May 6 – 10 

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 

Thursday, May 9 

• Celebration of Baldassarra Playscape (8:30 am – 9:30 am)

Thursday, May 16

• House Shout  (1:00 pm – 3:00 pm) details to follow

Friday, May 17 

• School Closed – Victoria Day Long Weekend (No classes)

Monday, May 20 

• School Closed – Victoria Day Long Weekend (No classes)

Tuesday, May 21

• Classes Resume

Thursday, May 23 

• Moms’ Night Out 

Friday, June 7 

• Last Prayers of the Year (8:25 am – 9:00 am – JS Gym)

Monday, June 10 

• Grade 6 Leaving Ceremony (4:00 pm – 5:30 am – JS Dining Hall)

Wednesday, June 12 

• Junior School Closing Ceremony (2:00 pm – 3:00 pm – Brenda Robson Hall)

Thursday, June 13 

• Last Day of School (Early Dismissal – 11:30 am)