Dear Junior School Parent:

This morning we had the absolute pleasure of hearing a message in prayers from Ms. Brenda Robson and Ms. Judy Ratcliffe. Both teachers at the school for decades, they shared stories from their over 60 years at Havergal!  The girls were enthralled to see how the physical plant of the school has changed so much over the years, as well as to hear those things that have remained the same (e.g., Havergal girls smiling widely at each other, and supporting each other when they are feeling lost!) Also in the audience this morning was a fantastic group of “Old Girls,” who now have daughters in the school.  It was a truly wonderful way to head into the weekend.  Celebration Saturday is a much-loved tradition at the school, and we look forward to seeing you there tomorrow!

Yours sincerely,

Kate White

In this message, read about:

• Celebration Saturday – Need to Know Information
• Spotlight on the Family Handbook – School Rules and Progressive Discipline
• Waste Diversion at Havergal
• Math Discussion Club is Back!
• Junior School Math Academy for Parents
• Athletics
• Frequently Used Links
• Next Week in the Junior School
• Important Dates on the Horizon

Spotlight on the Family Handbook

Strategies to Support Students When They Make Mistakes  

Making mistakes is a normal and expected part of growth and development, particularly in the early years. Mistakes provide students with the opportunity to reflect and learn about themselves, others and the world around them.  

As capable problem-solvers, it is important that our students have specific strategies to draw on when they or a peer have made a mistake. If your daughter has tried to address an issue independently but is having difficulty resolving it, please encourage her to reach out to a trusted adult for support.  

When a mistake has been made, the following three steps are often used at the Junior School to help your daughter move forward. These can also be used at home:

1. Take Ownership

Encourage your daughter to recognize her role in the situation. This is not about taking on all of the responsibility. Rather, it is about seeing how she may have contributed, positively or negatively, to whatever has happened.   

2. Say Sorry

Mistakes happen. Saying sorry can be the first part of making things better. Students can sometimes be very hard on themselves when something goes wrong and engage in negative self-talk (e.g., I am the worst!), which is ultimately not helpful. It is important that students forgive themselves when they make a mistake and then move on by making better choices going forward. In addition, if a student has wronged someone else, or made a bad choice, it is important to try to make amends.

3. Make a Plan and Move Forward

Encourage your daughter to think about what she might have done differently. What might she do moving forward? Who could she seek out for support? Let her know that they are not alone in this and that there are adults who are available to offer support.  

To read the full Family Handbook:  CLICK HERE

Waste Diversion at Havergal

To learn more about HC’s commitment to diverting waste, check out the link below:

Junior School Math Academy for Parents

Junior School students were not the only ones trying something a little different on Day 9 last wee!  Junior School parents also came out to participate in a special “Math Academy.”

The presentations have been provided here for your reference.

K-2 Parent Math Academy

Athletics

Next week in the Junior School

Monday, September 30 (Day 1)

• 7:00 – 8:00 am: U11 Basketball practice (JS Gym)
• 8:30 – 8:55 am: JS Prayers (Margaret Taylor House Prayers)
• 11:50 – 12:20 pm: Gr.1-6 Chess Lunch Club (Learning Hub)
• 12:10 – 12:50 pm: Math Discussion Club (Learning Hub)
• 3:30 – 4:45 pm: U12 Soccer (lower Pitch)
• 3:30 – 4:15 pm: Gr.4 Homework Club (Rm. 4M)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.1-2 Drama Club (Rm. 121, SK)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.3-4 Drama Club (Rm.213, 3F)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr. 4-6 Kids Lit Quiz (Art Room)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.3-6 Strings Ensemble (Music Room)

Tuesday, October 1 (Day 2)

• 7:00 – 8:00 am: Swim Team (pool)
• 7:20 – 8:00 am: Cross Country Team Practice (lower pitch)
• 8:30 – 8:55 am: JS Haverpals
• 8:55 – 10:40 am: Band Clinicians working with Grade 6
• 12:10 – 12:50 pm: Gr.3-4 Math Discussion Group (Learning Hub)
• 3:30 – 4:30 pm: Gr. 1 & 2 Multi-sport Squad (JS Gym)
• 3:30 – 4:15 pm: Gr.4-6 Junior Choir (Music Room)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.1-3 Tinker Lab (Rm.117, 2B)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.1-3 Farm Fresh (Rm. 122, JK)

Wednesday, October 2 (Day 3)

• 7:00 – 8:00 am: U12 Basketball practice (JS Gym)
• 8:15 – 9:30 am: Gr.1-2 Parent Meeting (Learning Hub)
• 8:25 – 8:55 am: First House Meeting of the Year
• 11:50 – 12:20 pm: Cookies and Conversation (Learning Hub)
• 11:50 am: Class Dismissal of Swim Team
• 3:30 – 4:30 pm: Basketball Squad Team (JS Gym)
• 3:30 – 4:15 pm: Gr.1-3 Primary Choir (Music Room)
• 3:30 – 4:15 pm: Gr. 6 Homework Club (Rm. 6L)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.4-6 Video Game Design  (Rm.214, 5G)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.4-6 Aspiring Architects (Rm.212, 6M)
• 4:00 pm: Return of Swim Team to Havergal

Thursday, October 3 (Day 4)

• 8:30 – 8:55 am: JS Prayers (Summer Reading Celebration)
• 12:00: cross country team departs to Sunnybrook park
• 2:30pm Departure of U12 Soccer team to Country Day.
• 3:30 – 4:45 pm: U12 Basketball practice (Gym A/B)
• 3:30 – 4:45 pm: U11 Basketball practice (Gym C)
• 3:30 – 4:30 pm: Gr 3&4 Multisport Squad (JS Gym)
• 3:30 – 4:30 pm: Soccer Squad Team (lower Pitch)
• 3:30 – 4:15 pm: Gr. 5 Homework Club (room 5C)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.1-3:Ugly Doll Designers (Rm.209, 3P)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.4-6 Chem-Mystery (Rm.208, 4P)
• 4:00 pm: Cross country team returns. 
• 5:45 pm Return of U12 soccer team  

Friday, October 4 (Day 5)

• 7:30 – 8:15 am: Gr.4-6 Math Contest Prep Club (Rm.215, 5C)
• 8:30 – 8:55 am: JS Prayers (Review of the First Month)
• 12:10 – 12:50 PM: Gr.3-4 Math Discussion Group (Learning Hub)

Important Dates on the Horizon

Sept 28: Celebration Saturday (8:30 – 1:00 pm)

Oct 11: Harvest Festival (8:30 – 10:15 am)

Oct 14: Thanksgiving (School Closed)

Oct 24: Parent-Teacher Conferences (1:30 – 7:30 pm)

Oct 25: Parent-Teacher Conferences (8:00 – 3:00 pm)

Dear Junior School Parent:

It has been another fulsome five days in the Junior School, with our students ending the week with our first Day 9.  The day started with a visit from author Shannon Hale and illustrator LeUyen Pham, co-creators of the “Princess in Black” series.  Our students were absolutely enthralled by their presentation and gasped when Ms. Hale rolled out a laminated scroll of the DOZENS of rejection letters she had received over the course of her career.  It was a fantastic lesson in the importance of persistence and tenacity. These inspiring women are speaking tomorrow at a Toronto Public Library Author Talk at the Lillian Smith Library, should you wish to see them!

Over the course of the last two weeks, Ms. Watt and I have held two assemblies, one for Grades 1 – 3, and another for Grades 4 – 6, in which we reviewed the “Rules of the School,” and how important they are in helping us to have a community where people feel safe, free to learn and to have fun.  We also reviewed how Havergal’s Progressive Discipline Approach works to help students take ownership of their mistakes, apologize to themselves and others, and to make a plan moving forward.  Students in Grades 4 – 6 were introduced to “Pink Slips,” which act as reminders for when a student is having difficulty following a school rule, and how to make a plan.  Be sure to ask your daughter about them. Please note that this week’s “Spotlight on the Family Handbook” focuses on these topics!

Yours sincerely,

Kate White

In this message, read about:

• Celebration Saturday
• Sustainable Design Features for a Greener Campus
• Spotlight on the Family Handbook – School Rules and Progressive Discipline
• Athletics
• Frequently Used Links
• Next Week in the Junior School
• Important Dates on the Horizon

Spotlight on the Family Handbook

Each week, we will be featuring a different section of the Family Handbook that is particularly important for the Junior School community.  This week, we are shining the spotlight on the Rules of the School, and our Progressive Discipline Approach.

School Rules

Havergal students will:

1. abide by the Havergal Code of Conduct;
2. comply with all published school policies, protocols and rules;
3. uphold and demonstrate the school’s core values: Integrity, Inquiry, Compassion and Courage;
4. attend all classes, Grade, Form,  TA meetings, Prayers and assemblies on time;
5. wear the school uniform correctly at all times; 
6. not take or forward digital photographs, videos or audio recordings of people without their consent; and
7. comply with the Acceptable Use of Technology Agreement and Student Loan Agreement.

*Please note that several rules have been removed from this list, as they are more pertinent to the Upper School.

Progressive Discipline

The breach of school rules and policies by students at any grade stand in relation to a progressive discipline approach that is used by Havergal to address inappropriate incidents and / or behaviours. Progressive discipline is duly noted in the Havergal Code of Conduct. It makes use of a continuum of interventions, supports and sanctions that builds upon strategies that promote positive behaviours. This may include reminders, review of expectations, detentions, contact with parents / guardians, loss of privileges, written reflection, conflict mediation and resolution, behavioural and / or academic agreements, referral for support services, suspension, and expulsion. 

In general, the severity of punishment and the steps taken by the school will be consistent with the nature and degree of the misbehaviour in relation to the school’s progressive disciplinary approach. Each case will be dealt with individually. No two infractions of the Code of Conduct are exactly alike, nor are the needs of offenders necessarily similar. We recognize that each student is a unique individual and that every situation that requires disciplinary action has its own set of extenuating circumstances, which are duly considered in every case. 

To read the full Family Handbook:  CLICK HERE

Next week in the Junior School

Monday, September 23 (Day 4)

• 7:00 – 8:00 am: U11 Basketball practice (JS Gym)
• 8:30 – 8:55 am: JS Prayers (Introducing our Grade 6 leaders)
• 12:15 am: Dismissing our Cross Country Team to Centennial Park
• 3:30 – 4:45 pm: U12 Soccer (lower Pitch)
• 4:00 pm: Cross Country Team return

Tuesday, September 24 (Day 5)

• 7:00 – 8:00 am: Swim Team (pool)
• 8:30 – 8:55 am: JS Prefects practice 2019-2020 School Cheer with Gr.1-6, in preparation for Celebration Saturday
• 8:30 – 9:50 am: JS Welcome Committee Training for Parents (Learning Hub)
• 3:30 – 4:30 pm: Gr. 1 & 2 Multisport Squad

Wednesday, September 25 (Day 6)

• 7:00 – 8:00 am: U12 Basketball practice (JS Gym)
• 8:15 – 9:30 am: JK/SK Parent Meeting (Learning Hub)
• 8:55 – 10:40 am: Band Clinicians working with Grade 6
• 12:00 – 12:45 pm: Gr. 1-2 New to Havergal Lunch with Ms White and Ms Watt
• 12:20 – 12:50 pm: Gr.6 Lunch at the Upper School
• 3:30 – 4:30 pm: Basketball Squad Team (JS Gym)

Thursday, September 26 (Day 7)

• 7:00 – 8:00 am: Swim team practice (pool)
• 7:20 – 8:00 am: Cross Country team practice (Lower Pitch)
• 8:30 – 8:55 am: JS Prayers (Rosh Hashanah, Jewish High-holidays)
• 9:00 – 10:15 am: Rosh Hashanah Reception (Learning Hub)
• 12:00 – 12:45 pm: Gr. 3-5 New to Havergal Lunch with Ms White and Ms Watt
• 2:00 pm: U11 Basketball Dismissal  
• 2:45 pm: U12 Soccer team Dismissal 
• 3:00 pm: U12 Basketball Dismissal
• 3:30 pm: U12 Basketball meet vs BH & MS (US Gym A/B & Gym C)
• 3:30 – 4:30 pm: Gr 3&4 Multisport Squad (Js Gym)
• 5:45 PM: U11 Basketball Team and U12 Soccer Team return to Havergal

Friday, September 27 (Day 8)

• 8:30 – 8:55 am: JS Prayers

Saturday, September 28 

• 8:30 – 1:00 pm: Celebration Saturday

Important Dates on the Horizon

Sept 28: Celebration Saturday (8:30 – 1:00 pm)

Oct 11: Harvest Festival (8:30 – 10:15 am)

Oct 14: Thanksgiving (School Closed)

Oct 24: Parent-Teacher Conferences (4:00 – 7:30 pm)

Oct 25: Parent-Teacher Conferences (8:00 – 3:00 pm)

Dear Junior School Parent:

We have now completed our first full week of school, and are slowly but surely settling into our daily routines.  I have had the pleasure of visiting each classroom throughout the week. Your daughters are learning, having fun, and it is already becoming difficult to distinguish between our “new” and returning students.

In prayers, and in our Primary assembly this week, we have continued to emphasize the importance to:

BE KIND

BE SAFE

ASK QUESTIONS 

As you head into the weekend, I encourage you to engage your daughter in why these things are important to our community, and how they set us all up for a more successful school experience. 

Finally, we welcome back our Grade 6 students this afternoon, as they return from a 2-night, 3-day excursion to Camp Onondaga, where they learned about their role as leaders in the Junior School this year! The pictures they sent to us leave no doubt what a fantastic time they had. Check our Havergal’s Instagram and Facebook pages to learn more.

Yours sincerely,

Kate White

In this message, read about:

• Math Academy for Parents
• Day 9: Fri. Sept. 20
• Celebration Saturday
• Rosh Hashanah/Yom Kipper
• Junior School Volunteer Opportunity
• Spotlight on the Family Handbook
• Athletics
• Frequently Used Links
• Next Week in the Junior School
• Important Dates on the Horizon

Math Academy for Parents

Session 1a – SK to Grade 3 . 9 am – 11 am 

This session focuses on fundamental math concepts of visual spatialization, quantity and unit, which is the foundation of your daughter’s mathematics program, this year.  A handout will be provided to be used at home.

Session 1b – Grades 4 to 6 . 1pm-3pm 

This session focuses on fundamental math concepts of visual spatialization, quantity and unit, which is the foundation of your daughter’s mathematics program, this year.  A handout will be provided to be used at home.

Sign-up for Math Academy for Parents

Spotlight on the Family Handbook

Each week, we will be featuring a different section of the Family Handbook that is particularly important for the Junior School community.  This week, we are shining the spotlight on the use of cell phones in the Junior School.

Cell Phones in the Junior School

If your daughter brings a cell phone to school, she is not permitted to use it during the day, unless given permission by a teacher. Therefore, her phones should be off and kept in her backpack or locker. If your daughter needs to contact you during the day, she can use the school phone in the office or ask a teacher to use a classroom phone. Students found using a cell phone during the school day will be asked to bring it to the office, where it can be picked up at the end of the day. Students are only permitted to use their cell phone during dismissal, with the purpose of calling a parent or caregiver. These calls must be made in the front office.

To read the full Family Handbook:  CLICK HERE

Athletics

Next week in the Junior School

Monday, September 16 (Day 8)

• 8:30 – 8:55 am: JS Prayers
• 3:30 – 4:45 pm: U12 Basketball (JS Gym)
• 3:30 – 4:45 pm: U12 Soccer Tryouts (lower Pitch)

Tuesday, September 17 (Day 1)

• 7:00 – 8:00 am: Swim Team (pool)
• 7:20 – 8:00 am: Cross Country (Lower Pitch)
• 8:30 8:55 am: JS Prefects practice 2019-2020 School Cheer with Gr.1-6
• 3:30 – 4:45 pm: U12 Soccer (Lower pitch)

Wednesday, September 18 (Day 2)

• 8:25 – 8:55 am: Gr. 1-3 Daily Physical Activity (Gym)
• 8:25 – 8:55 am: Gr. 4-6 Code of Conduct Assembly (Learning Hub)
• 11:15 am: Cross Country Team dismissed to SAC
• 11:50 – 12:20 am: Cookies and Conversation (Learning Hub)
• 3:30 – 4:45 pm: u11 Basketball (JS Gym)
• 4:30 pm: Cross Country Team return

Thursday, September 19 (Day 3)

** JS Photo Day – students to wear #1 dress **

• 8:30 – 8:55 am: JK – Grade 6 Evacuation Drill Assembly (No prayers!)
• 9:00 – 3:00 pm: JS Photo Day Schedule
• 12:20 – 12:50 pm: Gr. 6 Council Captain Meeting (Learning Hub/Art Room)
• 3:30 – 4:45 pm: U11 Basketball (US Gym C)
• 3:30 – 4:45 pm: U12 Basketball (US Gym A/B)

Friday, September 20 (Day 9)

** Day 9 Special Schedule **

Day 9 Excursions;

• 8:30 – 9:15 am: JK – Gr.6 Author Visit
• JK/SK: Art Barn Workshops
• Gr. 1 & 2: Highpark
• Gr. 3: Toronto Island
• Gr. 4: ZimArt’s Rice Lake Gallery
• Gr. 5: McMichael Gallery
• Gr. 6: Communities in Toronto

Important Dates on the Horizon

Sept 28: Celebration Saturday (8:30 – 1:00 pm)

Oct 11: Harvest Festival (8:30 – 10:15 am)

Oct 14: Thanksgiving (School Closed)

Oct 24: Parent-Teacher Conferences (4:00 – 7:30 pm)

Oct 25: Parent-Teacher Conferences (8:00 – 3:00 pm)

Dear Junior School Parent:

We have made it to the end of the first week of school, and what a week it has been! It has been such a pleasure seeing all of you, and especially your daughters!

Last night’s People and Program evening was such a success.  It was a fantastic opportunity to gather as a community, share important information about Havergal’s program, and to underscore the importance of working together as partners.

I hope that you have an opportunity to enjoy family and friends this weekend, and are looking forward to our first full week, starting on Monday.

Yours sincerely,

Kate White

In this message, read about:

• Shannon Hale and LeUyen Pham visit
• Spotlight on the Family Handbook
• Drop-off and Pick-up
• Athletics
• New and Noteworthy HCPA Information
• Frequently Used Links
• Dates on the Horizon
• Glance at next week

Shannon Hale and LeUyen Pham visit

On September 20th, from 8:30 – 9:15, two very special guests are coming to the Junior School! Author/illustrator duo Shannon Hale and LeUyen Pham have teamed up on the popular Princess in Black series, as well as the Real Friends graphic novels. Shannon and LeuYen will speak to the whole school about life as an author and illustrator, how they get their ideas, collaboration, and creativity! Students will also have the opportunity to ask questions. If you would like, you may purchase signed copies of their books. There are also several copies of their books in the Learning Hub.

Grade 4 will be leaving early for their Day 9 excursion, but are welcome to purchase signed copies.

Please look out for the order form, which will be coming home with your daughter next week.

If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact me at erodd@havergal.on.ca or at ext 7544

Spotlight on the Family Handbook

Each week, we will be featuring a different section of the Family Handbook that is particularly important for the Junior School community.  This week, we are shining the spotlight on birthdays and invitations.

Birthdays and Invitations

We realize that it is not generally possible to send seasonal greetings and birthday invitations to every child in a class. Children are, however, very sensitive; feelings can be easily hurt in these early years. Invitations and cards should not be brought to school for delivery unless the whole class is included. Treats (e.g., cupcakes, cookies, donuts) and/or loot bags may not be brought in to celebrate birthdays or holidays. Instead, students are invited to wear grub clothes on their birthday. Students with a summer birthday are invited to wear their grub clothes on an alternate day that is to be arranged with their core teacher.

To read the full Family Handbook:  CLICK HERE

Drop-off and Pick-up

DROP-OFF (8:00 am – 8:25 am)

1. Please stay in your vehicle. A member of the Havergal Faculty/Staff will be on hand to provide assistance and to walk-in those students that are not yet ready to do so independently.
2. Have your daughter exit the vehicle on the curbside only, rather than onto the driveway.
3. Have your daughter’s backpack and school materials in the backseat, and not in the trunk, ready for a quick drop-off.
4. Should you wish to walk your daughter into school, please park on the Cohen Field, and NOT in any of the spots along the driveway. A new and convenient walkway to the Junior School is now available for pedestrian traffic. Please follow the signage.

PICK-UP 

1. The Junior School has a staggered dismissal process. It is essential that you pick up your daughter during her designated time, otherwise the process is impeded.
   • 3:15 pm – 3:30 pm (JK -SK)  – starting next week
   • 3:20 pm –  3:50 pm (Grade 1–Grade 2)
   • 3:35 pm –  3:50 pm (Grade 3–Grade 6)
2. Place the pink laminated card that was sent home today, with your daughter’s name and grade on it, on your dashboard, so that it is easily visible.
3. Stay in your vehicle. Havergal Faculty/Staff will be on hand to assist and walk your daughter to the car if necessary.
4. Should you wish to park your car, please do so on the Cohen Field, and NOT in any of the spots along the driveway.

Please note:

• Families with daughters in more than one grade are asked to come in the time slot that is designated for your eldest daughter’s grade. Students that are not picked up by 3:50 pm will be brought inside. A member of the Security team will continue to call students until 4 pm so that parents/caregivers do not have to enter the school, should they not wish to. Any students not picked up by 4 pm, will go to Gator Care. The charge for Gator Care begins at 4 pm.

Athletics

Parent volunteers are needed for Cel Sat on Saturday, Sept 28 between 9am – 1pm

Cel Sat brings all members of the Havergal community together to support our Community Partners.

Sign up for a shift or two!  There will be activities, games, food, an online auction and a vendor marketplace.  A fun day for the whole family!

But we need your support –  Click here to volunteer!

Important Dates on the Horizon

Sept 9: Lice Checks

Sept 11 – 13: Gr.6 Excursion to Camp Onondaga

Sept 19: JS Photo Day

Sept 20: Day 9

Sept 28: Celebration Saturday (8:30 – 1:00 pm)

Oct 11: Harvest Festival (8:30 – 10:15 am)

Oct 14: Thanksgiving (School Closed)

Oct 24: Parent Teacher Conferences (4:00 – 7:30 pm)

Oct 25: Parent Teacher Conferences (8:00 – 3:00 pm)

Glance at Next Week

Monday, September 9 (Day 3)

*9:00 – 3:00 pm: Lice Checks

• 8:30 – 8:55 am: JS Prayers  (Priorities)
• 12:00 pm: JS Fall online registration closes for Athletics and Clubs
• 3:30 – 4:45 pm: U12 Basketball Tryouts (JS Gym)
• 3:30-4:45pm: U12 Soccer Tryouts (lower Pitch)

Tuesday, September 10 (Day 4)

• 3:30 – 4:45 pm: U12 Soccer Tryouts (Lower pitch)

Wednesday, September 11 (Day 5)

• 8:00 am: Gr.6 Students depart for Camp Onondaga
• 8:30 – 8:55 am: Gr.1-3 Assembly; Understanding the Code of Conduct and Progressive Discipline
• 8:30 – 8:55 am: Gr.4-5 Daily Physical Activity (JS Gym)
• 3:30 – 4:45 pm: u11 Basketball Tryouts (JS Gym)

Thursday, September 12 (Day 6)

• 8:30 – 8:55 am: JS Prayers (Starting the day off right)
• 3:30 – 4:45 pm: U11 Basketball Tryouts (US Gym C)

Friday, September 13 (Day 7)

• 8:30 – 8:55 pm: JS Prayers (Ending the day right)
• 3:00 pm: Gr.6 return from Camp Onondaga

Dear JS Parent:

It hardly seems possible that we are about to embark on another school year!  For some of you, your daughter is entering Junior Kindergarten and this marks her very first year at Havergal; for others, you are undoubtedly pinching yourself that after 7 years in the Junior School, your daughter is about to start Grade 6 and will soon be on her way to Middle School!  Wherever you are on this journey, please know that we are here to support, care, and challenge your daughter.

At our final prayers in June, I spoke about each school year starting as a blank canvas, and shared the following quote:

There is something beautiful about a blank canvas, 

the nothingness of the beginning 

that is so simple and breathtakingly pure.

 It’s the paint that changes its meaning 

and the hand that creates the story. 

Every piece begins the same, 

but in the end they are all uniquely different.

I know that I speak on behalf of our entire faculty and staff when I say, that we could not be more excited about the canvas your daughter will paint this year.  We look forward to working alongside you to ensure that this will be an exceptional year.

We will see you next week!

Sincerely,

Kate White

In this message, read about:

• Family Handbook
• Opening  Week Schedule
• Registration Information
• Construction Update – Parking, Drop-off and Pick-up, etc.
• Athletics
• Links to Bookmark
• Dates on the Horizon

Family Handbook

• Please take time to review the Havergal Family Handbook

Opening Week Schedule

Monday, September 2

• School Closed

Tuesday, September 3 – Orientation for New to Havergal Students & Grade 6 Leadership Workshop PLEASE NOTE RETURNING STUDENTS DO NOT ATTEND SCHOOL ON THIS DAY!

• No Gator Care (Before and After Care Program)
• Students do not need to bring anything with them, but may choose to bring a snack and a water bottle.
• Regular Uniform
  • JK – Grade 4
    • short or long sleeve golf shirt or turtleneck or dress shirt with tie + junior skirt or dress pants, black velcro shoes or black lace-up Oxfords; optional: green sweater or green ¼ zip (not to be worn with #1 Dress).
  • Grade 5 – 6
    • Short or long sleeve golf shirt or turtleneck or dress shirt with tie  + summer skirt or dress pants or tunic, black lace-up Oxfords ; optional: green sweater or green ¼ zip (not to be worn with #1 Dress); please note: Grade 6 students are permitted to wear their “hoodies” Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Hoodies are not be worn on Thursdays or any other Special #1 Dress days.    
• Non-Cycle Day

Kindergarten 

• Group A – 9:30 am – 10:30 am
• Group B – 11 am – 12 pm

New to Havergal Students in Grade 1  – 5 

• 9:30  am- 10:30 am: Introduction to classroom teachers and specialist teachers. Tour of the Junior School. Meet and greet other new students. 

All Grade 6 Students

• 9:30 am – 12 pm
• Introduction to leadership roles.  Small and whole group work on leadership.

New Parents

• Are invited to the Learning Hub for optional Veracross Training (HC’s online forum) and to meet with other new parents. 
• Please bring your personal devices to fully engage in the training.

Dismissal:

• JK and SK parents are asked to collect their daughter directly from the classroom.
• If you have a daughter in Grade 1 – 5, and choose to stay for the Veracross Training Session, you are welcome to pick up your daughter directly from the classroom.  If you are picking up your daughter by car, she will be brought outside,  and we will bring her to you. There will be HC faculty and staff on hand to guide you.
• Students in Grade 6 will be picked up from the JS driveway.  They will be called by a member of the HC faculty and sent to your car.

Wednesday, September 4 – First Day of School for ALL Students

• First Day of Gator Care (Before and After Care)
  • Students can be dropped off as early at 7:15 am for our morning Gator Care Program.  There is no registration required for this service.
  • Our After-School Gator Care Program runs from 3:15 pm – 6:00 pm.  Registration is required for this program.  To learn more please review the following: Gator Care 2019-20
• Regular Uniform
• Non-Cycle Day
• Rose Reisman Hot Lunch Program begins today
  • Rose Reisman Hot Lunch Program

Kindergarten

• 8:30 am– 11:00 am – All JK/SK students at school

Grades 1 – 6

• Students can be dropped off at school anytime between 7:15 am and 8:20 am. 
• Students go directly to their classrooms between 8:00 am – 8:20 am. Prior to 8:00 am, students go to Gator Care.
• Please note:
  • All Grade 6 students will have a swim test today in preparation for the overnight excursion to Camp Onondaga. As such, they need to come to school with their swim uniform.

Dismissal:

• JK and SK parents are asked to collect their daughter directly from the classroom.
• We use a staggered dismissal process in the Junior School.  Please review the guidelines carefully.
  • Gr.1-2 Dismissal: 3:25-3:45 pm. 
  • Gr. 3-6 Dismissal: 3:35-3:45 pm
• If you have daughters who are dismissed at different times, please come at the later time.

Thursday, September 4

• #1 Dress
  • JK – Grade 4
    • tunic + short or long sleeve dress shirt + tie + black modesty shorts + green knee socks or green tights + black velcro shoes or black lace-up Oxfords; 
  • Grade 5 – 6
    • kilt + short or long sleeve shirt + tie + black modesty shorts + green knee socks or green tights + black lace-up Oxfords

Day 1

• 8:00 am – 8:15 am – Drop-off and Outdoor Play
• 8:15 am – 8:25 am: Attendance in Core Classroom
  
• 8:25 am – 9:00 am: Welcome Prayers (Kate White – Head, Junior School)
  • Parents are welcome to attend!
    
• 8:25 am – 3:20 pm: Regular Schedule for JK – Grade 6
• 5:30 -pm- 5:55 pm: Gr. 6 Excursion Parent Information session in Grade 6L
  
• 5:30: JS Reception in Learning Hub (OPTIONAL)
  
• 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm: JS People & Program Event 
• Please note:
  • Swim: Gr. 3F – First day of swim. Students are required to bring their swim uniform.
  • Art: 3PR – First day of Art.  Students are required to bring in a smock to cover their uniform (old oversized button-down shirts and t-shirts work well)!

Dismissal:

• JK and SK parents are asked to collect their daughter directly from the classroom.
• Gr.1-2 Dismissal: 3:25-3:45 pm. 
• Gr. 3-6 Dismissal: 3:35-3:45 pm

Friday, September 5

Day 2

• Regular Uniform
• 8:00 am – 8:15 am: Drop-off and Outdoor Play 
• 8:15 – 8:25 am: Attendance in Core Classroom
• 8:25 am: Prayers  (Catherine Misson, Principal)
  • Parents are invited to attend
•  9:00 am – 10:00 am: Welcome Reception for JS parents (Come and say hello to Ms. Misson in the Learning Hub)
• 9:00 am – 3:20 pm: Regular Schedule for JK – Grade 6
• Please note:
  • Swim: Gr. 4P – First day of Swim. Students are required to bring their swim uniform.
  • Art: 4M -First day of Art. Students are required to bring in a smock to cover their uniform (old oversized button-down shirts and t-shirts work well)!

For a complete summary of the month of September, please use the link provided: JS September Schedule

Registration Information

• JS Fall Clubs Information
• JS Athletics (Squads, Squad Teams, Teams) 
• Zodiac Swim School Registration 
• Private Music Lessons: Registration 
• Pizza Lunch 
• Rose Reisman Hot Lunch Program

Construction Update – Parking, Drop-off and Pick-up

The Junior School was a busy place this summer, as construction continued on our facilities to build new spaces for art, STEM, music and health & well-being. Since your last visit in June, the school has transformed and we are excited for you to see the progress that has been made towards completing the project!

As part of the construction process, we have made some changes and improvements to operations that you should be aware of for your return next week:

• Parking – The Cohen Field parking lot remains available to parents, in addition to some new parking spaces along the Junior School driveway.
• Access to Cohen Field – The pathway to Cohen Field has changed, so please view our map and procedures to understand how to walk between Cohen Field and the Junior School.
• Drop-off and Pick-up – Our drop-off and pick-up process remains the same as last year, however we welcome you to review our traffic flow procedures. We will have security and staff on-hand to assist with daily drop-off and pick-up.
• Safety – Since we have active construction sites on our campus, we have considerable measures in place to keep safety as our top priority. You will notice construction hoarding, fencing and overhead protection has been installed to separate the school zone from the construction zone, in addition to safety signage. We ask that you please obey all signage and do not enter any construction zones. Please also reduce your speed and be mindful of your surroundings when travelling along the Junior School driveway, using Cohen Field and driving in the neighbouring school zone areas.

To see our build take shape in real-time, be sure to watch our construction live stream here.

Athletics

Important Dates on the Horizon

Sept 4: First Full day of School & first day of Gator Care

Sept 5: People and Program Night (5:30 – 7:30 pm)

Sept 9: Lice Checks

Sept 11 – 13: Gr.6 Excursion to Camp Onondaga

Sept 19: JS Photo Day

Sept 20: Day 9

Sept 28: Celebration Saturday (8:30 – 1:00 pm)

Oct 11: Harvest Festival (8:30 – 10:15 am)

Oct 14: Thanksgiving (School Closed)

Oct 24: Parent Teacher Conferences (4:00 – 7:30 pm)

Oct 25: Parent Teacher Conferences (8:00 – 3:00 pm)

Dear Junior School Parent:

A warm welcome to all of our returning families, as well as to all of those joining our community for the first time. We could not be more excited to start the 2019-20 school year! 

Havergal girls live our mission and truly do go on to “make a difference,” no matter where their life journey takes them. We are proud to be part of that journey. Our faculty and staff are experts in education. Equally as important, they care deeply about your daughter and work hard to know her so that they can motivate and encourage her to do her best, learn from her mistakes and challenge herself throughout her time in the Junior School. As parents, you are the first experts on your daughter, as you continually guide her through all stages of her development. It is in large part through your love and encouragement that her self-confidence develops and her curiosity flourishes, as does her capacity to be resilient and to advocate for herself. Each of these traits, as well as the many other foundational skills you impart, are vital in setting the stage for a positive and productive learning experience outside of the home.

The relationship between home and school is critical to ensure that your daughter thrives, both academically and socially; each providing a unique perspective and forming a more complete understanding of the individual child. To this end, both sides must communicate directly, share successes and challenges in a timely fashion, set goals together as a team, regularly review progress and make adjustments as necessary. As we begin the 2019-20 school year, we look forward to working in partnership with you. 

As Head, I know that Havergal is the very best environment for your daughter to learn and to grow. Our tremendous faculty and staff and I are committed to your daughter’s success. The school’s enduring values—courage, compassion, inquiry and integrity—have guided us for 125 years and will continue to guide us as we move forward.

As the summer draws to an end, please be sure to complete all necessary forms and read the information in Summer Mailing #1 – Junior School and Summer Mailing #2 – Junior School carefully to ensure a smooth start to the year.

If you have any questions or if we can help you or your daughter prepare for the new school year, please feel free to contact me directly or to connect with the Junior School Office at 416.483.3519 x 6608. As always, we are more than happy to assist.

With less than two weeks to go until the first day of school, I hope that you have had the opportunity to enjoy a slower pace over the last several months. All members of the Junior School are gearing up for the 2019-20 school year; we know it will be a fantastic one! We look forward to welcoming you all in September!

Warm regards,

Kate White

Head, Junior School

Dear Junior School Parent,

This is the first of two messages that you will receive this summer in order to prepare new and returning families for the 2019-20 school year. The second email will be posted on Thursday, August 22.

On behalf of the Havergal faculty and staff, we wish you a wonderful summer and look forward to seeing you in September.

For access to Summer Mailing #2, please use the following link: Summer Mailing #2 – Junior School

Sincerely,

Kate White

Returning families:

Please remember that the 2018-19 school year closes from August 2 to 6. During that time, the school year rolls over into 2019-20 and you will no longer have access to your daughter’s report cards. 

New families:

You will have access to Havergal’s online portal (Veracross) beginning on Tuesday, August 6. You can access the Parent Portal through the same credentials (username and password) that you have been using to log into the Admission Portal. The Parent Portal is best accessed on a laptop or computer—at least initially. I recommend that you bookmark the community login page, as you will visit it often throughout the year. If you are having trouble accessing this password-protected site, please contact the Information Technology Service Desk at 416-483-3519 ext. 6663 between 8 am and 4 pm, Monday to Thursday, and 8 am to 1 pm on Fridays. You can also email: servicedesk@havergal.on.ca.

Please use the links below for information on the following subjects:

• JS September Schedule 
• Major Dates: Whole School
• Major Dates: Junior School  
• Summer Reading Challenge
• Optional Reading Lists: 
  • JK to Grade 1 
  • Grades 2 & 3 
  • Grades 4 to 6
  • Adult
• JS People & Program Evening—Save the Date! 
• Registration Information
  • JS Fall Clubs Information
  • JS Athletics (Squads, Squad Teams, Teams) 
  • Zodiac Swim School Registration 
  • Private Music Lessons: Registration 
  • Pizza Lunch 
  • Rose Reisman Hot Lunch Program
• Gator Care Information (Before and After School Care)  
• Construction Update 

Dear Junior School Parent:

This is the second of two summer mailings, aimed to provide you with all the information you and your daughter(s) will need to prepare for the 2019-20 school year.

I would like to begin by reminding you about Havergal’s new approach to Opening Week. This year, all New to Havergal (NTH) students come to school on Orientation Day—Tuesday, September 3. Grade 6 students also come to school on Tuesday, September 3, for a leadership orientation session. Opening Day takes place on Wednesday, September 4. All Junior School students (NTH and returning) come to school on Opening Day.

Please refer to the JS September Schedule for specific details about what the first month of school looks like. 

For access to the information included in Summer Mailing #1, please use the following link: Summer Mailing #1 – Junior School

I would like to end by noting that the 2019/20 Family Handbook will be emailed to you as an electronic flipbook before school begins. This publication endeavours to provide parents of all grades an extensive and in-depth understanding of daily school routines, Havergal policies, and what it means to be a member of the Havergal community.

We hope that you enjoy the remaining days of summer and are looking forward to welcoming you and your daughter(s) back to Havergal in the fall.

Warm regards,

Kate White

In this Message Read About:

• The Parent Portal
• Veracross
• Green and Gold Shop Hours
• On-going Communication – Junior School Blog
• Important Additional Information – Please read each section in its entirety

The Parent Portal

New to Havergal families now have access to grade-specific and whole school information online through the Parent Portal. You access the Parent Portal through the same credentials (username and password) that you have been using to log into the Admission Portal. The Parent Portal is best accessed on a laptop or computer—at least initially. I recommend that you bookmark the community login page and visit the Parent Portal frequently to keep up with all the news that gets posted there. 

If you are having trouble accessing this password-protected site, please contact the Information Technology Service Desk at 416-483-3519 ext. 6663 between 8 am and 4 pm. You can also call 416-482-2843 ext. 6663 or email servicedesk@havergal.on.ca. Please note that the Service Desk is closed on Friday, August 30.

Veracross

Veracross is Havergal’s web-based school information management system that connects parents with the school and the school with parents. You access Veracross through the password-protected Parent Portal. It’s important that you familiarize yourself with Veracross because it will help you keep informed about your daughter’s school life

Green & Gold Shop Hours (416.483.3843, ext. 4710)

Monday-Thursday, 8 am – noon and 1-4 pm
Friday, August 23rd: 8 am – noon
Friday, August 30th: Closed

Ongoing Communication—Junior School Blog

Havergal makes every effort to keep parents informed. In part, this is accomplished by keeping Veracross up-to-date, tailoring messages to suit specific parent groups and being timely about sharing information that gets sent home from the school. Going forward, you can expect to receive weekly messages from me on most Fridays on this blog.  The blog will highlight alerts for activities and events that are upcoming, as well as highlights from the week that may generate conversation with your daughter about her school life. Please note that a JS Blog Post will be sent out on Thursday 29, with information regarding parking, traffic flow, drop-off/pick up procedures, and a detailed update on construction.

Important Additional Information for Junior School Schedule – Please read each section in its entirety

• JS Faculty and Staff Directory 
• People & Program Evening Agenda
• Construction Update
• Your Parent Guide to the Parent & Student Portal
• How to Update Health Information (Please complete this information prior to the beginning of school)
• New Faculty & Staff Biographies 2019-20
• Student Support and Wellness

Dear JS Parents,

Thank you for another fantastic year at the Junior School.  This morning’s Closing Ceremony was absolutely filled with joy, and was the perfect ending to the year.   We will update the blog on Monday, with a link to photos and videos.

We wish you all a fun-filled summer, with lots of rest and adventure on the agenda, and look forward to seeing you in September.

Sincerely,

Kate White

In this message, read about:

• An Update on the New Build
• Athletics
• Summer Reading Challenge
• Important Links
• Dates on the Horizon

An Update on the New Build

While the school year has ended, our construction is progressing steadily and we have now reached the halfway mark of the build!

Walking by the Junior School, you can easily see the developments that have taken place over the past few months. The concrete floors for both storeys have been created, the wooden pillars and ceiling beams for the new dining wing have been mounted and the steel frameworks for some of the classroom walls have been installed.

Construction will continue throughout the summer and into the fall, and we anticipate the full project to be completed by next spring. You can look forward to seeing the exciting transformations when you return in September. Be sure to check out Havergal’s Facebook, Instagram and Twitter during the summer to view construction photos as the build continues!

 Lastly, we know there have been some growing pains during construction and we appreciate your flexibility while the project is underway. Thank you once again for your patience and cooperation throughout this time of transition.

Athletics

The Junior School Gators have much to celebrate as we look back on a fantastic year in athletics!

We not only celebrate the Soccer, U11 Volleyball, U12 Volleyball, Softball and U11 Track CISAA Champions but we also celebrate an increase of 44 more participants involved in the Athletics program this year. This drastic increase in participation and the championship wins shows the breadth and depth of the program that is being offered.  There is a place for everyone in the Havergal Junior School athletics program for them to develop their self-confidence, perseverance, and co-operation. Being a team member in the JS is a special connection for all girls to experience.

We want to wish our graduating Grade 6 athletes well as they continue in their healthy, active journeys into the Middle School.

Summer Reading Challenge

In between popsicles, family fun and swimming, summer reading is a wonderful way to spend a sunny afternoon or a long evening sunset. Summer reading supports your daughter in maintaining and building upon her learning as well as being enjoyable and a great family activity. To help support your daughter’s reading habits over the summer, we have another Summer Reading Challenge!

Your daughter will be bringing home the materials and instructions, and they can also be found here at this link.

Wishing you all a wonderful summer full of fun and fabulous books!

Important Dates on the Horizon

Thursday, June 20 – JS/US Full Report Cards Available on Veracross

• Parents will have access to the reports at 4:00 pm

Thursday, July 4

• First Summer Mailing regarding 2019-20 sent by email

Thursday, August 15

• Second Summer Mailing regarding 2019-2020 sent by email

Dear JS Parents,

We have had another full week!  At prayers yesterday, we celebrated our students in Grades 3, 4, 5, and 6 all of whom participated in at least one math contest this year. Havergal students placed exceptionally well, and we are very proud of their efforts. Today, our Junior School Prefects spoke about what leadership meant to them and welcomed the Grade 5 students as upcoming leaders of the Junior School.

We wish you all a wonderful weekend, with lots of time to enjoy the sun.

Sincerely,

Kate White

In this message, read about:

• Gator Day
• Summer Reading Challenge
• End of Year Dates to Remember
• Important Links
• Dates on the Horizon

Gator Day

Last Friday the girls had a full afternoon filled with fun at the annual Gator Day. Congratulations to Frances Ridley who were rewarded the Gator Day cup.

Summer Reading Challenge

In between popsicles, family fun and swimming, summer reading is a wonderful way to spend a sunny afternoon or a long evening sunset. Summer reading supports your daughter in maintaining and building upon her learning as well as being enjoyable and a great family activity. To help support your daughter’s reading habits over the summer, we have another Summer Reading Challenge!

Your daughter will be bringing home the materials and instructions, and they can also be found here at this link.

Wishing you all a wonderful summer full of fun and fabulous books!

End of Year Dates to Remember

Wednesday, June 12 – House Lunch Day 

• Students will eat lunch with their House, outside
• Students are invited to wear house colours

Tuesday, June 11-  Grade 6 Leaving Ceremony 

• 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm (JS Gym)
• Only Grade 6 families invited to attend
• Grade 6 students to wear #1 Dress to school all day

Thursday, June 13 – JS Farewell Prayers to Helen-Kay Davy

• 8:25 am – 9:00 am (JS Gym)
• All welcome to attend!
• All students to wear #1 Dress

Friday, June 14 – JS Closing Ceremony and Reception (Last Day of School)

• 7:15 am – 8:00 am Gator Care available 

• NO PM Gator Care available!
• No lunch at school – please ensure that your daughter brings a nourishing snack to sustain her through the morning
• 11:00 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. JS Closing Ceremony in Brenda Robson Hall (Upper School)
  • Student Dress: #1 Concert Dress (long sleeved white blouse; polished shoes, hair pinned back from the face using a small plain hair accessory without colour or embellishment, socks)
  • All families invited to attend
  • Refreshments served at JS following the conclusion of the Closing Ceremony
  • Dismissal is from the Junior School at the conclusion of the ceremony, at approximately 12:15 pm.

Thursday, June 20 – JS/US Full Report Cards Available on Veracross

• Parents will have access to the reports at 4:00 pm,

Important Dates on the Horizon

Monday, June 10 (Day 2)

• 8:30 – 8:50 am: JS Prayers

Tuesday, June 11 (Day 3)

• 8:00 – 8:55 am: Gr.6 Leaving Celebration, Final Band  Rehearsal
• 9:00 – 10:30 am: Gr.6 Celebration Rehearsal
• 12:50 -2:30 pm: Gr. 4 Closing Rehearsal (BRH)
• 4:00 – 5:00 pm: Gr.6 Leaving Celebration (JS Gym)
• 5:00 – 5:30 pm: Gr.6 Leaving Celebration Reception

Wednesday, June 12 (Day 4) (Welcome to Wear House Colours!!)

• 8:25 – 8:55 am: Gr.1-6 Closing Ceremony Rehearsal
• 11:50-12:20 pm: End of Year JS House Celebration Lunch

Thursday, June 13 (Day 5)

• 8:25 – 8:55 am: JS Final Prayers

Friday, June 14 (Day 6) (LAST DAY OF SCHOOL)

• 8:30 – 10:00 am: JS Closing Rehearsal
• 11:00 – 12:15 pm: JS Closing Ceremony (BRH)
• 12:00 – 12:30 pm: JS Closing Ceremony Reception (Learning Hub)
• No Gator Care available PM

Thursday, June 20

• 4:00 pm: JS/US Full Report Cards available online

Thursday, July 4

• First Summer Mailing regarding 2019-20 sent by email

Thursday, August 15

• Second Summer Mailing regarding 2019-2020 sent by email