What a wonderful week of connection, community building and spirit it has been! While February days can sometimes feel long and dark, the mood at Havergal was anything but. From Dress Down Days, to special activities led by our US Prefects, sweet treats, and cheering on the Havergal Hockey team it felt like a week of celebration. A special congratulations to our U12 Hockey Team who won their game against BSS at their first game together as a team at The Mattamy Centre! Congratulations to everyone for such a fabulous week
As we head into the midterm Family Day long-weekend, I hope that this time provides you with an opportunity to pause, and enjoy time together.
Warmly,
Kate
Today’s edition of “The Weekly” contains information on the following:
Students in JK to Grade 12 will be marking the importance of Pink Shirt Day throughout the week.
While Pink Shirt Day is officially on Wednesday, February 22, students in the JS are invited to wear a pink shirt on Friday, February 24. US students will wear their Pink Shirts on Wednesday.
While we speak to our students about the difference between being rude, being mean and bullying on a regular basis, Pink Shirt Day highlights the importance of choosing to lift each other up, how to be an “upstander” and the effects that bullying can have.
Junior School Food Services – Registration for Spring Term
Should you wish to sign your child up for JS Food Services in the spring term, please be sure to fill out the Food Services Registration Form by March 23.
REMINDERS
School Information and Student Demographics Reporting – please complete by February 24th, 2023
All schools in Ontario are required to submit student demographic information for JK-12 students for the Ministry of Education’s reports on school information and student demographics. We are asking parents to submit this information to us by February 24th, 2023 so that our Ministry report is up to date and accurate.
Please complete ONE submission for each child you have enrolled at Havergal College. The submission form can be found here. Please direct any questions you have to data.services@havergal.on.ca. Thank you for helping us complete this important information.
HCPA UPDATES
Pre-Loved Uniform Sale
Pre-Loved Uniform Sale is next week! See you on February 24 from 9 – 11 am at the JS. Card payments only please.
Gator Gala Silent Auction
If you would like to make a donation (items, tickets or experiences) to the Gator Gala Silent Auction, please contact Donna Wilson at donnasmythe@hotmail.com or Jennifer O’Campo-King at JenniferOCampo.King@tdsecurities.com. Proceeds will be put toward HCPA parent engagement activities and the Limitless Campaign.
NEW – HC fleece pullovers on sale now!
Click HERE for more information. Youth and adult sizes are available to order until March 10. Don’t miss out!
Get involved with the HCPA in 2023-24
The HCPA’s nomination process is open now for the 2023-24 school year. Connect with other parents, support the school and have fun by getting involved with the HCPA! Learn more HERE.
DATES ON THE HORIZON
Usethis linkto see a personalized summary of your child’s activities next week, on the Parent Portal.
It was another exciting and full week in the Junior School!
We had close to 150 prospective families here this week for interviews and assessments, as we look towards 2023-2024. A huge note of thanks to our Admission Team, Faculty and Teachers who all came together to ensure that this was a positive and welcoming experience!
We also had three field trips go out this week, including a trip to Black Creek Pioneer Village (Gr. 3), a visit to the Aga Khan Museum (Gr. 5), and a walking tour of ChinaTown and Kensington Market (Gr. 6).
It was especially lovely to have so many families join us for the Grade Family Breakfast on Wednesday in the Brenda Robson Hall. Grade 5 is an entry year, meaning that we have a number of students who have joined our community for the first time, alongside families that have been at Havergal since JK. This kind of event is the perfect opportunity to further come together as a grade and to strengthen connections.
Next week promises to offer just as much excitement as we celebrate Spirit Week, from JK – Grade 12. We have so much planned for the week, and look forward to sharing photos throughout the week on social media.
Warmly,
Kate
Today’s edition of “The Weekly” contains information on the following:
School Information and Student Demographics Reporting – please complete by February 24th, 2023
All schools in Ontario are required to submit student demographic information for JK-12 students for the Ministry of Education’s reports on school information and student demographics. We are asking parents to submit this information to us by February 24th, 2023 so that our Ministry report is up to date and accurate.
Please complete ONE submission for each child you have enrolled at Havergal College. The submission form can be found here. Please direct any questions you have to data.services@havergal.on.ca. Thank you for helping us complete this important information.
JS Curriculum Information on the Parent Portal
We have posted information about the JS curriculum on the Parent portal under the Resources page. You can access it directly at this link.
Valentine’s Day in the Junior School
If students would like to bring in a small card for each of their classmates, they are welcome to do so, on Tuesday, February 14. Please note, however, that gift bags and large food items are not permitted. A small candy or something that can be taped to the card is acceptable. We ask that if children bring in a card, they have one for every member of the class, so that everyone feels included.
Hockey Day – Livestream Link!
Want to watch “Hockey Day” online? Here is the Livestream LInk so you can follow along! The puck drops at 12:45 pm! Go Gators!
REMINDERS
Spirit Week
Monday, February 13 – Jersey Day/Silly Socks
Students can dress in a sports jersey of their choosing. If students do not have a jersey, they can wear silly socks and shoes. Please note students are still required to wear the school uniform along with their jersey or silly socks.
Tuesday, February 14-Hockey Day and Valentine’s Day
Students in Grades 1 – 6 are invited to wear FULL green and gold clothing to show their school spirit. OR “Wear What They Love” for Valentine’s Day! Students in JK/SK are invited to wear unicorn themed gear!
Students in Grades 4 – 6 will be attending the Hewitt Cup Hockey game in the afternoon.
Wednesday, February 15 – Cozy Day
Students are invited to wear their PJs to school.
Thursday, February 16 – House Day
Students are invited to wear house colours!
HCPA UPDATES
A huge thank you to the Grade 1 and 5 families who joined us bright and early (in pjs!) for the Grade Breakfasts this week. It was a fun morning complete with games, a photo booth and of course a scrumptious breakfast. Thank you to Alison Markowitz and Leah Li for coordinating this event. A link to all the photos will be shared next week.
DATES ON THE HORIZON
Usethis linkto see a personalized summary of your child’s activities next week, on the Parent Portal.
I hope that everyone is staying safe and warm on this cold and sunny January day!
I have no doubt that parent-teacher conferences were a wonderful opportunity to check in with your child’s teachers. These are really important conversations when we come together as partners to discuss how your daughter is continuing to grow and learn academically and socially. When I see the teachers prepare for these meetings, I am in awe of how deeply they know each child, seeing their many strengths, areas for growth, and next steps. It is also my hope that it further reinforces your decision that Havergal is a place where your daughter can thrive.
Wishing you all a lovely, if somewhat frosty, weekend ahead!
Warmly,
Kate
Today’s edition of “The Weekly” contains information on the following:
As highlighted earlier in the fall, Havergal is well-positioned and the time is right to think about our future direction. The work on the CAIS accreditation Self-Study and the data collection phase with our strategy consulting partners at Berlineaton has closed and we have begun the work of prioritizing and planning. We are grateful to the many parents, students, Old Girls/Alums, past parents, faculty, staff, and board members who participated in the questionnaire and discussion groups on Havergal’s future.
We had over doublethe number of responses that Berlineaton typically sees for a community our size. In addition, we had strong participation in the group consultations with over 120 students, parents, faculty/staff leaders, and Old Girls/Alums in our CAIS review and strategy focus group sessions. This period of reflection has ignited excitement about our future.
From the questionnaire and focus group sessions, we saw broad community alignment with our school mission – to prepare young women to make a difference – and our core values of inquiry, integrity, compassion & courage. Our position as a leading girls’ school, grounded in the advancement of girls and women, and giving the next generation of girls the skills needed to make positive change, resonates with our internal and external community.
From this internal and external Scan phase, a number of consistently articulated school strengths and areas for investment emerged.
Identified areas of strength included: the breadth and strength of our academic and cocurricular program; a track record of successfully preparing students for the rigours of university study; the strength of our caring, dedicated, and skilled teaching faculty; the size and scope of our campus and facilities; the many global and experiential learning opportunities; an exceptionally strong school community and pride in the school.
Identified areas for investment included: increasing the socio-economic and cultural diversity in the student body and faculty/staff; more exposure for students to learning opportunities such as internships, credential-earning, GAP year, and further post-secondary options; facility upgrades in outdoor athletics, boarding, student commons, older classrooms, and wellbeing space; the recruitment and retention of top faculty in an increasingly competitive labour market; and finally, further investment in personalized, comprehensive wellbeing support for students.
The strategy development team continues to work in collaboration with the Board on the development of Havergal’s strategic direction and is looking forward to sharing updates with our community over the coming months. You can view the status of our progress on our website. Thank you to all those who participated in sharing your feedback, ideas, and hopes for Havergal’s future.
Re-registration for 2023-24
The link for registration for the 2023-24 school year will be sent to families on Wednesday, February 8. Completed re-registration forms are due, along with payment, by Wednesday, February 15, 2023.
The Admission Department appreciates your prompt response, as our re-registration numbers help guide us in the number of offers we will make to new families later in February.
Please do not hesitate to contact Admissions at admissions@havergal.on.ca if you have any questions.
Spirit Week- Monday, Feb 13 – Friday, Feb 17
Havergal Spirit Week is almost here to help us keep smiling and engaged through the grey days of winter. Be sure to take note of what to wear each day.
Monday, February 13 – Jersey Day/Silly Socks
Students can dress in a sports jersey of their choosing. If students do not have a jersey, they can wear silly socks and shoes. Please note students are still required to wear the school uniform along with their jersey or silly socks.
Tuesday, February 14-Hockey Day and Valentine’s Day
JK/SK Students- Unicorn Day. Students can wear anything related to unicorns!
Students in Grades 1 – 6 are invited to wear FULL green and gold clothing to show their school spirit. OR “Wear What They Love” for Valentine’s Day!
Students in Grades 4-6 will be attending the Hewitt Cup Hockey game in the afternoon.
A reminder that Monday is Pizza Lunch for all those registered
Using the Parent Portal to View Your Child’s Calendar of Events
Moving forward, please use this link, which will provide you with a calendar of events, called My Household Calendar, which is personalized for your family. You can also access this calendar through the Parent Portal in the Junior School menu along the top, then “My Household Calendar”.
We invite and encourage you to make use of the “ Parent Portal Feedback” form in the weeks ahead. This will be most helpful as we work together to ensure that our families are well informed about what is happening, so that you can plan accordingly.
HCPA UPDATES
Today is the last day to RSVP for the Grade 1 and Grade 5 breakfasts on Feb 7 and Feb 8 at 7:30 am in the Brenda Robson Hall. Students came come in their PJ’s and then change into their uniform when they get back to the Junior School.
Today, in honour of Bell’s “Let’s Talk Day,” we talked about the importance of mental health, as well as specific strategies to help us when we are experiencing “big emotions.” Here are some resources that we shared with the students this morning. I wanted to be sure to pass these along to you, so that you can continue to engage in conversations at home.
On Tuesday, February 14, at approximately 12:45 pm Havergal College will play against Bishop Strachan School’s (BSS) U20 Hockey team in a battle for the Hewitt Cup (HOCKEY DAY).
This annual hockey game, which takes place at Mattamy Athletic Centre (Formerly Maple Leaf Gardens), is a highly spirited athletic contest—faculty, staff, and Gr. 4-12 students are decked out in green and gold to cheer on our Gators with pride. As well, our U12 hockey team will play against the BSS Junior School team during the first intermission.
Attendance is mandatory for students in Grades 4 to 8; students in Grades 9 to 12 are welcome to attend. Students in JK to Grade 3 will remain at school.
Online registration and ticket purchase must be completed by the parents of all attendees! The registration link is now open, and will close on Monday, February 6 at noon.
Using the Parent Portal to View Your Child’s Calendar of Events
Starting today, Friday, January 27, we will no longer be providing “Next Week at a Glance” as part of “The JS Weekly.” This is as a result of our continued efforts to communicate with you in a more centralized and accurate way.
Moving forward, you can use this link which will provide you with a calendar of events, called My Household Calendar, which is personalized for your family. You can also access this calendar through the Parent Portal in the Junior School menu along the top, then “My Household Calendar”.
We invite and encourage you to make use of the “ Parent Portal Feedback” form in the weeks ahead. This will be most helpful as we work together to ensure that our families are well informed about what is happening, so that you can plan accordingly.
Thursday, February 2 – Gator Care during Parent-Teacher Interviews
Please note the following:
Gator Care will run from 1:45 PM – 6 PM on Thursday, February 2
A fee of $2/6 minutes (total $20/hour) will begin, starting at 2:45 PM
Registration – MUST BE SUBMITTED BY TUESDAY, JANUARY 31
If your child is NOT REGULARLY SCHEDULED to attend Gator Care on Thursdays, and you would like to OPT IN:
If your child IS REGULARLY SCHEDULED to attend Gator Care on Thursdays, but you would like to OPT OUT:
Please send an email to: gatorcare@havergal.on.ca to let the team know not to expect your child on this day
NO GATOR CARE IS AVAILABLE ON FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3
HCPA UPDATES
Grade 1 and Grade 5 Breakfasts
If you have not already done so, please RSVP before Jan 31 for the Grade 1 and Grade 5 breakfasts on Feb 7 and Feb 8 at 7:30 am. Also, don’t forget to send your photos to havergalbreakfast5@gmail.com by the end of day today.
JS A-Mazing Race – Save the Date!
The JS A-Mazing Race will be held on April 30, 2023, 12:30-3:30 pm. More details coming soon!
Pre-Loved Uniform Sale
Reminder of our Pre-Loved Uniform Sale on February 24, 9-11 am at the JS across from the Learning Hub.
DATES ON THE HORIZON
Tuesday, January 31
8:25 am – 9:30 am
Black History Month Prayers and Reception
Thursday, February 2
Early Dismissal (1:45 pm – 2:15 pm)
1:45 pm – 2:00 pm – Dismissal for JK- Grade 3
2:00 pm – 2:15 pm -Dismissal for Grades 4-6
Parent-Teacher Interviews (4:00 pm – 7:30 pm on Zoom)
Gator Care available from 1:45 pm – 6:00 pm (charging begins at 2:45pm)
Parent-Teacher Interviews (4:00 pm – 7:30 pm on Zoom)
Gator Care available from 1:45 pm – 6:00 pm (charging begins at 2:45pm
Friday, February 3
Parent-Teacher Interviews (8:00 am – 3:00 pm on Zoom)
No Classes for students
Tuesday, February 7
Grade 1 Family Breakfast
Wednesday, February 8
Grade 5 Family Breakfast
Monday, February 13 – Thursday, February 16 – Spirit Week!
Tuesday, February 14
Hockey Day!
Friday, February 24
JS Used Uniform Sale (9:00 am – 11:00 am – Outside the Library)
The Junior School community came together this morning to celebrate the Lunar New Year! We were thrilled to have students from both the Junior and Upper School share their personal stories, as well as how the Lunar New Year is celebrated across the globe and in different countries. It was such a pleasure to have so many students, families and friends come together to learn, celebrate, and be together, in community.
Wishing you all the very best in the weekend ahead.
Warmly,
Kate
Today’s edition of “The Weekly” contains information on the following:
Starting next week, Friday, January 27, we will no longer be providing “Next Week at a Glance” as part of “The JS Weekly.” This is as a result of our continued efforts to communicate with you in a more centralized and accurate way. Moving forward, you can use this link which will provide you with a calendar of events, called My Household Calendar, which is personalized for your family. You can also access this calendar through the Parent Portal in the Junior School menu along the top, then “My Household Calendar”.
We invite and encourage you to make use of the “ Parent Portal Feedback” form in the weeks ahead. This will be most helpful as we work together to ensure that our families are well informed about what is happening, so that you can plan accordingly.
For assistance with pickAtime, please contact the Service Desk at servicedesk@havergal.on.ca (416) 483-3843 ext. 6663 and they will assist you. Their hours of operation are from Monday – Friday 7:30 am to 5 pm.
NEXT WEEK AT A GLANCE
Monday, January 23 (Day 8)
7:15 am U12 Volleyball Team practice
Lunch time:
Gr. 4 – 6 Chess Club with Mr. & Mrs. Milicevic until May 15; $294 + HST.
Gr. 1 – 3
3:20pm – 4:20pm STEM Club with Explore It! Until May 15; $294 + HST.
Gr. 2
3 3:20 pm – 4:45 pm Strings Ensemble with Ms. Lo until May 15; $125.
Gr. 4 – 6
3:40pm – 4:40pm Musical Theater Cast Club with Ms. Carson & Mme. Rizzo until May 30; $65.
Gr. 4 – 6
3:40pm – 4:40pm Musical Theater Set and Costume Club with Ms. Palarchio, Ms. Mastri & Mme. Scharf until May 15; $65.
3:40 pm – 4:45 pm
U12 Swim Team practice.
Tuesday, January 24 (Day 1) – #1 Dress
7:15 am- 8:00 am U10 Volleyball squad practice.
8:15 am U12 Swim Team meets at JS
8:30 am bus departure from US
9-3pm Swim meet at Pan Am Aquatic Center
4pm Return to HC
8:30 am – Prayers
Gr. 1 – 3
3:20pm – 4pm Primary Choir with Mr. MacLean until March 7 & please note: no rehearsal February 21; $65.
Gr. 5 – 6
3:40pm – 4:30pm Public Speaking with Ms. Lockington until April 15; $65.
Gr. 6
3:40pm – 4:40pm Learn to Play Band with Ms. Zaiyouna until April 15; $65.
3:40-4:45 U11 Volleyball Team Practice
Wednesday, January 25 (Day 2)
7:15 am – 8:15 am – U10 Badminton Squad practice
3:20 pm – 4:20 pm U9 Multisport (Gr. 2&3)
Lunch Time
Gr. 1 Chess Club with Mr. & Mrs. Milicevic until April 16; $294 + HST.
3:20 – 4:20pm
Gr. 1 String Ensemble with Ms. Lo until April 16; $125.
3:40 pm – 4:25 pm
Junior Choir Mr. MacLean (Music Room 157); until April 19 & please note: no rehearsals February 22 & March 8; $65.
Thursday, January 26 (Day 3)
7:15 am – 8:15 am U11 Volleyball practice.
Lunch time Gr. 2 – 3
Chess Club with Mr. & Mrs. Milicevic until April 27; $294 + HST.
3:00 pm – 4:30pm U12 Volleyball Game at JS Gym
3:20 – 4:20pm
Gr. 1 – 3 Ballet Club with Ms. Wade until April 27; $360.
3:40pm – 4:40pm
Gr. 4 – 6 Teaching Kitchen with Mr. Chef of Chartwells until April 27; $65.
3:40pm – 4:40pm
Gr. 5 – 6 Visual Arts Club with Ms. Read until April 27; $65.
Friday, January 27 (Day 4)
7:00 am – 8:00 am U12 Swim Practice
8:30 am Prayers (Acts of Kindness)
3:20 pm – 4:20 pm U8 Multisport Gr. 1&2
DATES ON THE HORIZON
Thursday, February 2
Early Dismissal (1:45 pm – 2:15 pm)
Parent-Teacher Interviews (4:00 pm – 7:30 pm on Zoom)
Gator Care available from 1:45 pm – 6:00 pm (charging begins at 2:15 pm)
Friday, February 3
Parent-Teacher Interviews (8:00 am – 3:00 pm on Zoom)
No Classes for students
Tuesday, February 7
Grade 1 Family Breakfast
Wednesday, February 8
Grade 5 Family Breakfast
Friday, February 24
JS Used Uniform Sale (9:00 am – 11:00 am – Outside the Library)
Welcome Back! I can’t tell you how thrilled we were to welcome everyone back to school this week! We all came together first thing on Tuesday Morning for a message from Dr. Samson, who spoke to us about setting new intentions for the new year, and how practicing self-compassion can help us navigate the ups and downs of everyday life. Then, today, Ms. Watt and I took a step back to the beginning of the year, when we first discussed the “norms” of the Junior School, which include: greeting others by name, opening doors for others, wearing our uniform with pride, and including others in our work and play.
Our Grade 5s also surprised JS students, faculty, staff, and parents this morning with a flash mob at Prayers! Students worked hard to put their dance together, to the tune of “Jerusalema.” The audience was delighted by their fun and creative routine – a representation of hope, unity, and teamwork. It brought sheer joy to all of us, and was just the perfect way to welcome in the weekend. I am including a link for you to see their amazing performance.
Finally, we took a moment to wish Ms. Prosser well, as she begins her parental leave, and to welcome new teachers Ms. Verity (SK), Ms. McCleary (Gr. 3), and Ms. Cozier (Executive Director of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion) to the Havergal community.
Warmly,
Kate
Today’s edition of “The Weekly” contains information on the following:
Safe Arrival and Dismissal of Students – Top 5 Things We Need Your Help With
We are continuing to monitor the safe arrival and dismissal of students each day.
Our amazing team of teachers and security professionals are here to support in this process.
Here are the TOP FIVE ways we need your support:
Have students ready to exit as soon as your car stops alongside the curb. By waiting to drop off nearest the doors, it slows down the flow of traffic.
Arrive at your designated pick-up time:
JK: 3:00 pm
SK: 3:15 pm
Grades 1 – 3: 3:20 pm
Grade 4 – 6: 3:40 pm (along with younger siblings)
Abide by the signage both on and off school property. This includes: driving 10 km along the driveway, not parking along the driveway during peak times, no double parking, or stopping in restricted zones on Rosewell Ave.
Crossing at the designated crosswalk with the crossing guard and flashing pylons, and not across the driveway exit.
We are excited to share this new version. This update has been written to support both the cognitive and physical development to the greatest benefit of our students.
An Invitation from Lakefield College School – Tuesday, January 23
Community and Connection: LCS Speaker Series for Parents
Feeling Seen: Reconnecting in a Disconnected World
As part of Lakefield College School’s Community and Connection: Speaker Series for Parents, we invite CAIS parents and educators to join us for a talk from Dr. Jody Carrington on Tuesday, January 23 at 7:00 PM ET via Zoom.
Dr. Carrington is a psychologist, best-selling author, and public speaker with an affinity for helping teams and organizations overcome their most complex, human-centred problems. Her radiant energy and incomparable ability to connect with audiences result in compelling keynotes and life-changing workshops.
The message is simple: we are wired to do the hard things, but we are so much braver together.
Jody speaks passionately (and humourously) about resilience, burnout, mental health, leadership, grief and trauma– and how reconnection answers so many of the root problems we face.
Parent Teacher Interviews are just around the corner, taking place, via Zoom, on the following dates:
Thursday, February 2 (4:00 pm – 7:30 pm)
Friday, February 3 (8:00 am – 3:00 pm)
Families will be able to schedule a time to meet with their child(ren)’s teachers using Pick-a-Time.
Pick-a-Time OPENS at 6:00 pm on Tuesday, January 24th at 6:00 pm
Pick-a-Time CLOSES at 8:00 pm on Tuesday, January 31st at 8:00 pm
Havergal’s online booking system – pickAtime
The online conference booking system used by Havergal College is calledpickAtime. Please note that:
PickAtime does not permit the scheduling of back-to-back appointments.
Learning Support team members will join homeroom teachers for as many of these interviews as possible.
Already have a pickAtime account?
CLICK HERE to sign into your pickAtime account with your password.
Need to register for an account?
If you do not have a pickAtime account, pleasecreate a pickAtime linkin advance of the online opening.
Please be sure to select the “Junior School” option in the drop down menu (not the “Upper School” or “Green and Gold”).
How to Optimize your Experience on Zoom
In order to have the best possible experience at the upcoming event, it is strongly recommended that your Zoom application be updated to the latest version.
The following information and links have been provided by our IT department for your use:
For assistance with pickAtime, please contact the Service Desk at servicedesk@havergal.on.ca (416) 483-3843 ext. 6663 and they will assist you. Their hours of operation are from Monday – Friday 7:30 am to 5 pm.
Lunar New Year Prayers and Parent Reception – Friday, January 20
If your child is interested in participating in the Lunar New Year prayers, please email jbarrett@Havergal.on.ca by the end of the day on Sunday January 15th.
All students who celebrate the Lunar New Year are invited to wear their celebratory dress for the day.
Please join us on Friday, January 20 for our Lunar New Year celebration! The Junior School will be holding a reception for parents following Lunar New Year Prayers. At 9:00 am, parents are invited to the JS Dining Hall for coffee, tea and dumplings. Parents and students are welcome to wear traditional celebratory attire. We hope to see you there!
JS Grade Rep Meeting—Jan. 18, 8:45-9:45 am, JS Dining Hall
Members of the HC IT Department will be available to discuss the parent experience with the new Parent Portal that launched this past September. All parents are welcome to attend.
Grade 1 and 5 Breakfasts—Save the Dates!
Join us for our Grade 1 Breakfast on Feb. 7 and our Grade 5 Breakfast on Feb. 8. Invitations and details coming soon!
Used Uniform Sale – February 24
Has your daughter already outgrown her uniform? Don’t worry—we have planned a JS Used Uniform Sale set to take place at the JS from 9-11 am on February 24, 2023. Mark your calendar!
We hope everyone has had a wonderful break, and is as excited as we are to start the next term. There is so very much to look forward to in the months ahead, including our upcoming parent-teacher interviews, rehearsals for our Grade 4 – 6 Musical, Spirit Week – including the HIGHLY anticipated Hewitt Cup Hockey Game, where HC and BSS face off against each other at Maple Leaf Gardens on February 14th, and so much more!
Wishing you all a restful weekend ahead! While our faculty and staff will be back in the swing of things on Monday, preparing for your return, we will welcome back all students on Tuesday!
Warmly,
Kate
Today’s edition of “The Weekly” contains information on the following:
Parent Teacher Interviews are just around the corner, taking place, via Zoom, on the following dates:
Thursday, February 2 (4:00 pm – 7:30 pm)
Friday, February 3 (8:00 am – 3:00 pm)
Families will be able to schedule a time to meet with their child(ren)’s teachers using Pick-a-Time.
Pick-a-Time Opens at 6:00 pm on Tuesday, January 24th at 6:00 pm
Pick-a-Time Closes at 8:00 pm on Tuesday, January 31st at 8:00 pm
More information on how to register, will be provided next week.
Lunar New Year Prayers and Parent Reception – Friday, January 20
The Junior School will be holding Lunar New Year Prayers on Friday, January 20 at 8:30 am. Parents are invited to join the celebration in the JS Gym. A reception for parents will be held in the JS Dining Room at 9:00 am.
If your child is interested in participating in the Lunar New Year prayers, please email jbarrett@Havergal.on.ca by the end of the day on Sunday January 15th. Depending on responses, we may not be able to feature each child but we will take a list of all volunteers and try to include them on a later prayers date should they not participate in the Lunar New Years Assembly.
The students’ first day back at school will be a Pizza Day!
Changes to Gator Care in January
We are asking parents whose child attends After School Gator Care on an on-going basis to re-register them for the 2023 winter and spring terms by filling out this form. This registration form is only for parents who know their child will be attending After School Gator Care regularly. Please note we are still accepting one-off registrations for After School Gator Care up until the day of care before 9 AM to our email address at gatorcare@havergal.on.ca. Should you have more than one daughter in attendance, please fill out the form for each child.
Skating for Students in Grades 3 – 6
This winter your child in Gr. 3,4,5 and 6 will be skating at Otter Creek Outdoor Rink as part of their Health and Physical Education (HPE) program. Please see the Skating Letter that went out to parents from their Phys-Ed teacher and register ASAP.
HCPA
Used Uniform Sale – February 24
Has your daughter already outgrown her uniform? Don’t worry—we have planned a JS Used Uniform Sale set to take place at the JS from 9-11 am on February 24, 2023. Mark your calendar!
I am still beaming from yesterday’s Junior School Christmas Concert! What a wonderful way for us to celebrate the end of the term, and to start the holiday! We have accomplished so much together as a community, and I am excited to see all that 2023 has in store.
I also wanted to extend a huge thank you to the HCPA and parent community for the holiday gift cards that were presented to every Havergal employee this week. We are truly grateful for your generosity and kindness.
Wishing you all a safe, happy and healthy holiday…with lots of PJ days!
Warmly,
Kate
Today’s edition of “The Weekly” contains information on the following:
This winter your child in Gr. 3,4,5 and 6 will be skating at Otter Creek Outdoor Rink as part of their Health and Physical Education (HPE) program. Please see the Skating Letter that went out to parents from their Phys-Ed teacher and register ASAP.
Changes to Gator Care in January
We are asking parents whose child attends After School Gator Care on an on-going basis to re-register them for the 2023 winter and spring terms by filling out this form. This registration form is only for parents who know their child will be attending After School Gator Care regularly. Please note we are still accepting one-off registrations for After School Gator Care up until the day of care before 9 AM to our email address at gatorcare@havergal.on.ca. Should you have more than one daughter in attendance, please fill out the form for each child.
This year, to keep track of student numbers and staff ratios, we ask that parents only register their child if they know they will be attending on a specific day. Students who are registered and consistently miss days (without advance notification from parents to the Gator Care email address), will be removed from ongoing registration and will need to be re-registered. The parents will be informed by email if their child is removed from the list.
We have also added a dietary restriction option for parents to fill out as we serve snack everyday after 4 PM. Please take a moment to inform us of your child’s allergies and restrictions to ensure snack safety when you register them whether through the ongoing registration form or via email.
Finally, given the increase in cases of Flu, RSV and COVID from the Fall, we ask that parents do not enter the dining hall anymore for Gator Care. Please wait outside the North door of the dining hall and the Gator Care staff will prepare your child to leave and bring them outside.
As a reminder, After School Gator Care runs daily from 3 – 6 PM in the Junior School Dining Hall. We charge $2 every 6 minutes starting at 4 PM. Please note for student and parent safety in the winter months, pick up will be done from the North door of the dining hall at the end of the brick walkway. Signs will be posted on the first week back of school.
Morning Care does not require registration and runs from 7:30 – 8 AM daily.
Co-Curriculars in 2023
Performing Arts, Clubs and Co-curriculars return the week of January 23, 2023 for students who are registered.
Gr. 1 & 2 Multi-sport starts Fri. Jan 13th.
Gr. 2 & 3 Multi-sport starts Weds. Jan 18th.
Lunar New Year Assembly – Call for Participants
We will be celebrating Lunar New Year in a school-wide assembly on January 20th from 8:30 – 9 AM which will be followed by a small reception. If your child is interested in participating in the Lunar New Year prayers, please email jbarrett@Havergal.on.ca by the end of the day on Sunday January 15th. Depending on responses, we may not be able to feature each child but we will take a list of all volunteers and try to include them on a later prayers date should they not participate in the Lunar New Years Assembly.
The students’ first day back at school will be a Pizza Day!
Hot Lunch Program for the Winter Term – Registration
The Hot Lunch program Registration Form is now open for the Winter Term. To sign up, and to learn more please COMPLETE THIS FORM.
HCPA
Used Uniform Sale – February 24
Has your daughter already outgrown her uniform? Don’t worry—we have planned a JS Used Uniform Sale set to take place at the JS from 9-11 am on February 24, 2023. Mark your calendar!
Today we had the pleasure of learning all about Hanukkah as a Junior School. Junior School students who celebrate the holiday were joined by Shira, an Upper School student, and thoughtfully shared the story of Hanukkah and the many traditions they participate in with family and friends. It is always so meaningful when we can learn from one another, and honour the customs and religions of members of our community. Happy Hanukkah!
It was also so wonderful to see everyone in their house colours yesterday, as our students came together for House Meetings! Thank you to the Grade 6s, and the Upper School House Captains for their leadership in bringing this all together.
With only a week to go before the winter break, please read the information below carefully, so you are fully aware of all that is happening.
Sincerely,
Kate
Today’s edition of “The Weekly” contains information on the following:
Junior School Grade 1-6 Christmas Concert – Everything You Need to Know!
Location: St. Paul’s Bloor Street
Date: Thursday, December 22
Time: 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm (doors open at 3:30 pm)
Tickets are not required, all are welcome to attend
Please note:
Transportation to the Church
Students in Grade 1 – 6 will travel to St. Paul’s, via chartered bus, at 12:30 pm for a rehearsal and then perform for their families at 4:00pm
There is no transportation back to the school and no after school Gator Care is available on this day.
Lunch and Snacks:
Students not registered with Chartwells for lunch should come to school with a disposable lunch and disposable snack.
Students registered with Chartwells should not bring bags or materials to school.
All students from grades 1-6 will be provided an afternoon snack and drink prior to the performance at St. Paul’s. All allergies have been taken into consideration.
What to wear:
Number 1 Concert Dress is expected for the full school day on December 22.
Number 1 Concert Dress consists of:
White long-sleeve dress shirt
Tie
Tunic (JK-Grade 3) and Kilt (grades 5 and 6)
Tights, not socks (if you do not have tights, please arrange with your family to order some from the Green and Gold shop)
Black shoes
Hair back from face with minimal hair accessories that are the same colour as your hair or the HC official hair accessories
Dismissal
Students will be dismissed to their families after the concert is concluded. Instructions will be given at the conclusion of the concert.
Gator Care:
There is NO afternoon Gator Care on this day for any students (JK – Grade 6)
JK and SK on Thursday, December 22
Our kindergarten students will have a regular day on Thursday, December 21. Families should arrange to drop off and pick up their child, as normal. Please note, however, that there is NO AFTERNOON GATOR CARE AVAILABLE ON THIS DAY!
Locker/Cubby Clean-out
All students are asked to bring all personal belongings home for the holidays. This is so that our cleaners are able to do an extra deep cleaning during the break. Please send your child to school with extra bags to carry their things. Teachers will be on hand to support the students with this task.
REMINDERS
Wednesday, December 21: JK – 12 Holiday Dress Down Day!
A reminder that Wednesday, December 21 is a Holiday Dress Down Day! Students are invited to get in the holiday spirit, regardless of what holiday(s) they celebrate!
If Your Child Does Not Pass the School and Child Care Screening – Please Keep Them Home!
Havergal College continues to see an increase in respiratory illness infections over the last 3 weeks.
To protect both the students and faculty, as per Toronto Public Health recommendations, we are highly recommending masking in enclosed spaces along with frequent hand hygiene.
Students and staff can screen for symptoms utilizing the tool provided by the Ontario Government linked here: School and child care screening
Students should not come to school if they do not pass the screening tool.
Thank you for your cooperation in helping keep the students and staff safe at Havergal.
Hot Lunch Program for the Winter Term – Registration
The Hot Lunch program Registration Form is now open for the Winter Term. To sign up, and to learn more please COMPLETE THIS FORM.
HCPA
Don’t forget that we are now collecting ALL uniform pieces for our future Used Uniform sales. There is a Used Uniform collection bin behind the Security Desk. Drop off items any time!
Please save the date for our upcoming Grade Breakfasts in February, 2023!
A big note of congratulations to our JK and SK classes who had their Christmas Concert today! The students worked so hard over the last several weeks to prepare for this amazing event! A note of thanks to the incredible team of teachers who supported them in getting ready to wow their families! We are very much looking forward to the upcoming Grade 1 to 6 Concert, that will take place at St. Paul’s Cathedral on Thursday, December 22.
The weeks leading up to the winter holidays are always so filled with excitement! We have so very much to be grateful for and I look forward to ending the term joyously as a community.
Sincerely,
Kate
Today’s edition of “The Weekly” contains information on the following:
A Note of Thanks From Dr. Samson re: Strategic Planning and Small Group Consultations
I want to thank the parents who participated in the strategic planning questionnaire and small-group consultations with our strategic consulting partners, Berlineaton. We had an excellent response rate, more than doubling the number of responses that the Berlineaton team typically sees in a school our size and structure – a sign of a committed and engaged community! The strategy development team is in the process of analyzing the data, including reviewing our Canadian Accredited Independent Schools (CAIS) self study report, and will be utilizing the themes from the research with the team to develop areas of future opportunity and growth for Havergal. We also had a 70% response rate from students for the questionnaire, in addition to the 60 students from grades 5 through 12 who participated in small group consultation sessions. Thank you for your engagement in planning Havergal’s future direction.
New Toronto Public Health Screening Tool for Students
Havergal College continues to see an increase in respiratory illness infections over the last 3 weeks.
To protect both the students and faculty, as per Toronto Public Health recommendations, we are highly recommending masking in enclosed spaces along with frequent hand hygiene.
Students and staff can screen for symptoms utilizing the tool provided by the Ontario Government linked here: School and child care screening
Students should not come to school if they do not pass the screening tool.
Thank you for your cooperation in helping keep the students and staff safe at Havergal.
Hanukkah Prayers – An Invitation
We will be sharing the story of Hanukkah on Friday, December 16th, during prayers. We have invited the Jewish Students Affinity Group from the Upper School to share a message and will be including select students from the Junior School as well.
If your family celebrates Hanukkah and your child is interested in participating, please email jbarrett@havergal.on.ca by Monday evening. While not every student who is volunteered will be selected, their names will be taken down to participate in a prayers/assembly later in the school year.
REMINDER
Wellbeing and Resilience Survey Report – Your Input is Requested!
Last week we shared the Wellbeing & Resilience Survey Report with you. As a reminder, we are most interested in understanding which areas of wellbeing education you are most interested in. Please take a moment to complete the Wellbeing Topics and Supports Questionnaire for Parents (also found at the end of the survey report), so that we can hear your thoughts.
Our annual Christmas Concert will take place on Thursday, December 22 at St. Paul’s Bloor Street (227 Bloor St E).
Please note the following important information for your planning:
Students will travel to St. Paul’s in the afternoon for a rehearsal and then perform for their families at this venue at 4:00pm
Church doors will open to parents and families at 3:30pm.
All are welcome to attend and no tickets are required.
There is no transportation back to the school and no after school Gator Care is available on this day.
Students will be dismissed to their families after the concert is concluded.
HCPA UPDATES
Last chance to get a HC blazer or tunic ornament! Tunics are almost sold out. Click HERE to place your order and get it before the holidays! Deadline to order is TODAY – December 9.
We are now collecting ALL uniform pieces for our future Used Uniform sales. There is a Used Uniform collection bin behind the Front Desk. Drop off items any time!
The Weekly: Junior School 