Dear Junior School Families,

Thank you to our teachers for preparing the first set of report cards for the 2024-2025 school year. We hope they offered you a high level summary of how your daughter is progressing with her learning skills. We are excited by the conversations that will take place next week during Parent-Teacher Conferences, where you will have the chance to connect more deeply to discuss your daughters strengths and key next steps. We are grateful for your partnership.

We hope that the November Mid-term Break allows for some time to rest and recharge. 

Sincerely,

Kate

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

• Dress-Down Day on Wednesday, November 13
• Save the Date: Student Led Conferences – Friday, April 11
• Halloween Candy
• Cleaning Out the Lost and Found: November 12 -15
• What is New in Gator Care?
• Registration for Gator Care on Thursday, November 14
• Winter Pathway Closures – Starting on November 12 
• Co-Curriculars
• Notes From the HCPA
• What’s on the Menu Next Week
• Your Child’s Personalized Calendar
• Key Dates on the Horizon

LATEST NEWS

Dress-Down Day on Wednesday, November 13

Students, faculty and staff are all invited to come to school not in uniform.

Save The Date: Student Led Conferences – Friday, April 11 

Mark your calendars! As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting students to be “future ready” we are bringing Student-Led Conferences to the Junior School. The purpose of these student-driven meetings is to provide an opportunity for students to engage in conversation about their learning with their families. They also act to promote reflection, and focus on the process of learning, rather than on a final product. 

We will be sharing more about what to expect at these meetings in the new year, but we wanted to make sure people noted the time in your calendars, for your planning  purposes.

Halloween Candy

Now that Halloween is behind us, we ask that you the students leave their sweet treats at home! Thank you for your support.

Cleaning Out the Lost and Found: November 12 -15

We are Lost & Found items will be on display on the tables by the STEM lab. Parents and students are encouraged to check for lost belongings. We will make every effort to return labelled items to the students.

All unclaimed items will be donated to New Circles, or will go to the Used Uniform Sale, on Monday November 18.

Please be sure to label ALL of their child(ren)’s clothing, as this makes it much easier for items to be returned. As we head into the winter season, we encourage you to make sure that things like coats, snow pants, boots, hats, and mitts are clearly labelled as well.

What is New in Gator Care?

Should your daughter attend Gator Care on a regular basis, we encourage you to read the Gator Care Monthly Blast. This will provide you with a high-level overview of what is happening, and quick reminders.

Registration for Gator Care on Thursday, November 14 (Parent-Teacher Conferences)

Please note that registration for Gator Care is required for November 14, for Parent Teacher Conferences, so that we can ensure proper staffing ratios. This must be completed by Monday, November 11.  Regular charges apply, starting at the end of your child’s dismissal time.

To register, please follow the steps below:

• Login to the Parent Portal;
• Once you have logged in successfully, click on Junior School;
• You will see that there is a link to “After School Gator Care” under the REGISTRATIONS’ section;  
• Clink on it, and you will be able to register. A screen shot of what to look for is below for your reference.

Winter Pathway Closures – Starting on November 12 

Please note that the pathway behind the Art Room, the  STEM lab and  JS Dining Hall is closed during the months, due to safety reasons.

Kindergarten families are asked to either drop their daughter off at the front door in the morning, or to use the pathway that is located at the front of the Junior School for both drop-off and pick-up.

CO-CURRICULARS

Registration for Winter Co-curriculars is now open and closes at 8pm on Tuesday, November 12, 2024

• The catalogue of Athletics and Clubs can be found here: JS Winter Co-curriculars.

Athletics

• Most Winter Athletics start the week of November 18th except U12 Swim & U12 Hockey. 
• Please check the JS Athletics Schedule for specific details.

Clubs

• Fall clubs continue as scheduled, except during the mid-term break and will reconvene on Tuesday, November 12, 2024.

NOTES FROM THE HCPA

Ivy Market Details

• Ivy Market is coming on Thursday, November 21!  Please click HERE to learn more and pre-order custom Havergal gifts from a curated list of vendors.
• Pre-order Robyn’s cookie dough HERE and please click HERE to volunteer for Ivy Market. 
• The HCPA Holiday Marketplace is now online on our new shopify website!  Click HERE to get your holiday shopping done early. (password hcpa2024)

WHAT’S ON THE MENU NEXT WEEK

• JS Menu for Nov 12 – 15  

YOUR CHILD’S PERSONALIZED CALENDAR

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

KEY DATES ON THE HORIZON

Monday, November 11

• Last Day to register for Gator Care on Thursday, November 14 for Parent-Teacher Conferences
• gatorcare@havergal.on.ca 

Tuesday, November 12

• Classes resume

Thursday, Nov 14, 2024

• Parent-Teacher Conferences (3:00 pm – 8:00 pm) 
• There will be an early dismissal on this day
  • JK-Grade 3: 1:30 pm – 1:45 pm
  • Gr.4-6: 1:45 pm – 2:00 pm
• All clubs have been cancelled on this day. This includes Private Music Lessons.

Friday, November 15 from 8:00am – 3:00pm 

• Parent/Teacher Conferences continue over Zoom from 8:00 am – 3:00 pm.
• Please note there are NO CLASSES, no Co-Curriculars, or Gator Care.

Thursday, November 21

• The Ivy Market (10:00 am – 5:00 pm in the Brenda Robson Hall)

Dear Junior School Families,

On Tuesday, we welcomed Dr. Belle Liang and Mr. Tim Klein from Boston College, who shared insights from their book, How To Navigate Life. They explored the distinction between performance and passion mindsets and encouraged our students to pursue, instead, a purpose mindset. Their advice of “meet interesting people, do interesting things, and be interested” resonated with many, as did their research about its importance in overall wellbeing and academic success. For those who want to delve deeper, we invite you to review the slides from their Parent Presentation.

It was so much fun to have all of our students, faculty and staff dress up for Halloween yesterday! We know how much they look forward to this special day, and were thrilled to be able to participate in a variety of activities to celebrate together. A special note of thanks to the students in Grade 12 who came to support our students with our annual door decorating contest! The competition was close once again. Congratulations to our JK and 5B who were the lucky winners, along with 3A and 6B, who were the runner ups. Finally, a shout out to our Boarding Students and the Boarding Team for hosting our Junior and Senior Kindergarten students  for trick or treating in their home! We love any opportunity that allows us to build relationships between students across the bridge. 

Wishing everyone a restful weekend, after a fulsome week!

Sincerely,

Kate

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

• Registration for Gator Care on Thursday, November 14 (Parent-Teacher Conferences)
• Pizza Lunch is on Monday
• Learning Skills Report Cards – Available for viewing on Tuesday, November 5 (Grades 1 – 6) 
• Junior School Parent-Teacher Conferences – Registration Opens at 8:00 pm on Monday, November 4 
• Co-Curriculars – Registration Opens at 10:00 am on Monday, November 4
• Notes From the HCPA
• What’s on the Menu Next Week
• Your Child’s Personalized Calendar
• Key Dates on the Horizon

LATEST NEWS

Registration for Gator Care on Thursday, November 14 (Parent-Teacher Conferences)

Please note that registration for Gator Care is required for November 14, for Parent Teacher Conferences, so that we can ensure proper staffing ratios. This must be completed by Monday, November 11.  Regular charges apply, starting at the end of your child’s dismissal time.

To register, please follow the steps below:

• Login to the Parent Portal;
• Once you have logged in successfully, click on Junior School;
• You will see that there is a link to “After School Gator Care” under the REGISTRATIONS’ section;  
• Clink on it, and you will be able to register. A screen shot of what to look for is below for your reference.

REMINDERS

Pizza Lunch is on Monday

Students are excited for Pizza lunch, that will take place on Monday. Please note that there is no hot lunch on this day. Students who do not participate in in Pizza lunch are asked to bring their own lunches from home.

Learning Skills Report Cards – Available for viewing on Tuesday, November 5 (Grades 1 – 6) 

Your daughter’s Learning Skills Report Card is available through a link on your Parent Portal on Wednesday, November 5 at 4 pm.  

Please follow the instructions outlined in the Learning Skills Report Card for November 5  from Dr. Seonaid Davis, Vice Principal of Teaching & Learning. 

If you have any questions please reach out to your daughter’s homeroom teacher.

Junior School Parent-Teacher Conferences – Registration Opens at 8:00 pm on Monday, November 4

The first Junior School Parent/Teacher Conferences of the school year will take place virtually via Zoom. These important conversations provide an opportunity to discuss your child’s progress, to see the areas in which she is thriving, and to discuss targeted plans for continued growth. Moreover, they allow us to further strengthen the relationship between home and school. Everyone is highly encouraged to book a time to meet with their child’s homeroom teacher. Meetings with specialist teachers should be booked on an “as needed” basis, due to scheduling. Please note that our teachers will always reach out to you should they have any questions or concerns.

Havergal’s online booking system – PickAtime

• The online conference booking system used by Havergal College is called PickAtime. 

Registration

• Opens: Monday, November 4th at 8:00 pm
• Closes: Tuesday, November 12th at 8:00 pm

Once you have finished booking your appointments; the Zoom link will appear. If you have any last minute changes, please contact Sarah Robertson (srobertson@havergal.on.ca) 

Please note:

• CLICK HERE to sign into your pickAtime account with your password.
• If you do not have a pickAtime account, please create a pickAtime link in advance of the online opening. 
• Please be sure to select the “Junior School” option JS PTC November 2024 in the drop down menu (not the “Upper School” or “Green and Gold”).

Need any Further Help?

For assistance with pickAtime, please contact the IT Service Desk.

• Email: servicedesk@havergal.on.ca
• Telephone: (416) 483-3843 ext. 6663 and they will assist you. 
• Hours of operation are from Monday – Friday 8 am to 4 pm.

CO-CURRICULARS

Registration for WINTER Co-Curriculars (Athletics and Clubs) opens on Monday, November 4th at 10 am!

• The catalogue of Athletics and Clubs can be found here: JS Winter Co-Curriculars.

Athletics

• Congratulations to the cross Country team on their final meet this week.
  • The U11 X-Country team was something else! Congratulations to Halle L, Camille R, Emily K and Charlotte G who placed in the top 5 runners! 
• Please check the JS Athletics Schedule 

Clubs

• Clubs continue as scheduled, except on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, due to early dismissal.

NOTES FROM THE HCPA

Ivy Market Details

• Ivy Market is coming on Thursday, November 21!  Please click HERE to learn more and pre-order custom Havergal gifts from a curated list of vendors.
• Pre-order Robyn’s cookie dough HERE and please click HERE to volunteer for Ivy Market. 
• The HCPA Holiday Marketplace is now online on our new shopify website!  Click HERE to get your holiday shopping done early. (password hcpa2024)

WHAT’S ON THE MENU NEXT WEEK

• Junior School Menu for November 4 – 6 

YOUR CHILD’S PERSONALIZED CALENDAR

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

KEY DATES ON THE HORIZON

Monday, November 4

• Registration for Co-Curriculars Opens at 10:00 am (To register, login to the Parent Portal)
• Registration for Parent-Teacher Conferences Opens at 8:00 pm (To register, login to the Parent Portal)

Tuesday, November 5

• JS Remembrance Day Service (8:25 am in the JS Gym)

Thursday, November 7 – Monday, November 11

• School Closed for November Mid-term Break

Tuesday, November 12

• Classes resume

Thursday, Nov 14, 2024

• Parent-Teacher Conferences (3:00 pm – 8:00 pm) 
• There will be an early dismissal on this day
  • JK-Grade 3: 1:30 pm – 1:45 pm
  • Gr.4-6: 1:45 pm – 2:00 pm
• All clubs have been cancelled on this day. This includes Private Music Lessons.

Friday, November 15 from 8:00am – 3:00pm 

• Parent/Teacher Conferences continue over Zoom from 8:00 am – 3:00 pm.
• Please note there are NO CLASSES, no Co-Curriculars, or Gator Care.

Tuesday, November 21

• The Ivy Markey (10:00 am – 5:00 pm in the Brenda Robson Hall)

Dear Junior School Families,

There was a buzz in the air at the Junior School this week, as we welcomed over 150 prospective families at our Open House. Our Grade 6s played a pivotal role, acting as tour guides. It was impressive to see their confidence, ability to thoughtfully engage with our visitors, and the joy and pride they feel for Havergal. The next day, with support from Upper School students, they led our very first house meetings of the year, teaching their houses this year’s cheers. 

This morning, we also had the opportunity to celebrate the Festival of Diwali in Prayers. Diwali comes from the Sanskrit word deepavali, meaning “row of lights,” and marks the triumph of light over darkness, and of good over evil. It is one of the major festivals celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddists, and other religions based in India. Even though the meaning of the celebration may be different, the enthusiasm, and joy it brings to people’s lives is what binds everyone together. 

Thank you to our students who so proudly shared their many traditions associated with Diwali, and for performing an incredible dance routine, which they have been practicing for several weeks. It was a joyous way to end our week together.

Sincerely,

Kate

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

• Halloween in the JS!
• Learning Skills Report Cards – Available for viewing on Tuesday, November 5 (Grades 1 – 6) 
• Junior School Parent-Teacher Conferences: REGISTRATION
• Half-Day on Tuesday, October 29 – Early Dismissal Times
• Co-Curriculars
• Notes From the HCPA
• What’s on the Menu Next Week?
• Your Child’s Personalized Calendar
• Key Dates on the Horizon

LATEST NEWS

Halloween in the JS!

Halloween is next week and the JS community is very excited!!  As the day approaches, we would like to share some details with you.

Costumes and Accessories:

• Students are welcome to come to school in their costumes!
• They are to leave any accessories (masks, broom sticks, etc…) for their costume in their lockers or cubbies, until it is time for the JS Halloween Parade in the afternoon.

What NOT to bring:

• Students are not permitted to bring in any gifts or candy to share with their classmates. Our JS Prefects and their Council will be bringing in treats to hand out at the Junior School

Activities: 

• We will be having an afternoon full of Halloween themed activities! Please note that the activities are intended for students only. Families are welcome to come to the Halloween Assembly, and are invited to meet us all in the Gym at 2:35 pm, at the conclusion of the Parade.

• 11:50 am – 12:20 pm: Kindergarten
  • KG students trick or treat in the boarding school (student only event)

• 12:35 pm – 2:30 pm:  Grades 1-6 
  • Halloween Activities Run by the Halloween Committee (Crafts, Halloween Read Alouds, Spooky movies, Pumpkin hunt, Halloween Just Dance, Kahoot games and more!)

• 2:30 pm – 3:00 pm: JK – Grade 6
  • JK- Grade 6 Halloween Parade Through the School. The parade ends with all students entering the gym at 2:40 pm.
  • “Halloween Assembly” in the Junior School Gym, all parents are welcome to join us! 

• 3:05 pm – 3:35 pm:
  • Regular dismissal Procedures
  • It is IMPERATIVE that families only park in designated parking spaces, or on Rosewell Ave., and NOT ALONG THE DRIVEWAY, as this will impact our dismissal process.

Co-Curriculars

• All Co-curriculars will still run as per usual on Tuesday, October 31st.

Learning Skills Report Cards – Available for viewing on Tuesday, November 5 (Grades 1 – 6) 

Your daughter’s Learning Skills Report Card is available through a link on your Parent Portal on Wednesday, November 5 at 4 pm.  

Please follow the instructions outlined in the Learning Skills Report Card for November 5  from Dr. Seonaid Davis, Vice Principal of Teaching & Learning. 

If you have any questions please reach out to your daughter’s homeroom or specialist teacher.

Junior School Parent-Teacher Conferences: REGISTRATION 

The first Junior School Parent/Teacher Conferences of the school year will take place virtually via Zoom on:

• Thursday, November 14 from 3:00 pm – 8:00 pm 
  • There will be an early dismissal on this day
    • JK-Grade 3: 1:30-1:45 pm
    • Gr.4-6: 1:45-2:00 pm
    • Gator Care will run from 1:30 pm – 6:00 pm; Billing begins at 2:00 pm; Parents are asked to register for Gator Care by Monday, November 11th, so that we can ensure we have the appropriate staffing
  • Please note that all clubs have been cancelled on this day. This includes Private Music Lessons.

• Friday, November 15 from 8:00am – 3:00pm 
  • Parent/Teacher Conferences continue over Zoom from 8:00 am – 3:00 pm.
  • Please note there are NO CLASSES,  no Co-Curriculars, or Gator Care.

Registration on PickATime:

Havergal uses an online booking system called PickATime.

• Opens: Monday, November 4th at 10 am
• Closes: Tuesday, November 12th at 8 pm.

Once you have finished booking your appointments; the Zoom link will appear. If you have any last minute changes, please contact Sarah Robertson (srobertson@havergal.on.ca) 

Please note:

• CLICK HERE to sign into your pickAtime account with your password.
• If you do not have a pickAtime account, please create a pickAtime link in advance of the online opening. 
• Please be sure to select the “Junior School” option JS PTC November 2024 in the drop down menu (not the “Upper School” or “Green and Gold”).

Need any Further Help?

For assistance with pickAtime, please contact the IT Service Desk.

• Email: servicedesk@havergal.on.ca
• Telephone: (416) 483-3843 ext. 6663 and they will assist you. 
• Hours of operation are from Monday – Friday 8 am to 4 pm.

REMINDERS

Half-Day on Tuesday, October 29 – Early Dismissal Times

We are thrilled that our teachers will have the opportunity to engage in professional development with Dr. Belle Liang & Tim Klein on Tuesday, October 29, prior to their presentation with our families.

Please note the following:

• Students will remain at school for lunch and lunch recess.

• 12:30 pm – 1:00 pm  Staggered dismissal 
  • Kindergarten to Grade 3
    • 12:30 pm – 12:45 pm
  • Grade 4 – Grade 6
    • 12:45 pm – 1:00 pm 
• Gator Care
  • Is available, at the regular fee, from 12:30 pm – 6:00 pm; Billing begins at 1:00pm
  • Registration is mandatory, so that we are able to plan accordingly;
  • To register, please complete THIS FORM, by Friday, October 25, 5pm.

CO-CURRICULARS

Registration for Winter Co-curriculars opens on Monday, November 4th at 10 am and the catalogue of Athletics and Clubs can be found here: JS Winter Co-curriculars.

Athletics

• Congratulations to the teams on their final tournament week.
  • The Swim Team won the Bishops cup and both our U12 Basketball and U12 Soccer Teams won the final championship day. 
• Good Luck to the Cross Country team in their finals on Monday. 
• Please check the JS Athletics Schedule and Veracross Calendar for upcoming games and meets. 

Clubs

• Clubs continue as scheduled, except on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, due to early dismissal.

NOTES FROM THE HCPA

Ivy Market Reminder

The Ivy Market is just around the corner on November 21st from 10am-5pm, where a number of carefully curated vendors will showcase HC specific designs. Parents can also pre-order cookie dough and enjoy a coffee corner to connect with other parents and alumni. The HCPA is excited for this event and hope to see you all there!  Please click here for more details.

WHAT’S ON THE MENU NEXT WEEK

• JS Menu for October 28 – November 1

YOUR CHILD’S PERSONALIZED CALENDAR

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

KEY DATES ON THE HORIZON

Tuesday, October 29 

• Early Dismissal for Teacher Professional Development (please see above for the schedule)
• Parents as Partners Speaker Series (7:00 pm – 8:30 pm in the Legacy Theatre)

Thursday, October 31 

• Halloween – Students come dressed in their costumes

Tuesday, November 5

• JS Remembrance Day Service (8:25 am in the JS Gym)

Thursday, November 7 – Monday, November 11

• School Closed for November Mid-term Break

Tuesday, November 12

• Classes resume

Tuesday, November 21

• Save the date for Ivy Market

Dear Junior School Families,

As we welcome Thanksgiving weekend, I want to thank you for your engagement during the first month of the year. We know that sending your daughter to Havergal takes commitment on several fronts. Your support of the girls, our program, and our community makes providing an exceptional student experience possible. Whether attending games, performances and events like Celebration Saturday or the Harvest Festival , sharing your constructive feedback, supporting our philanthropic initiatives, or dedicating your time and talent, your contributions are deeply valued and positively impact our community.

As a learning organization, we endeavour to build empathy in our students for the challenges within our local and global community contexts. As we approach Thanksgiving weekend in the Junior School, we have taken time to learn, reflect and pray for the pain and suffering of others – those who are living in fear for their safety, subject to discrimination, hate and isolation, and those in our community who will not have enough to eat, even during this time where we celebrate the bountiful harvest. As we celebrate this Thanksgiving weekend and give thanks for our blessings, I ask we hold those in our community who are impacted by conflict or hate, who are isolated or lonely, and those who are struggling here in our local community close in our hearts and minds. 

We wish you and your family a safe and joyful Thanksgiving and to those observing, a meaningful Yom Kippur.

Dr. Katrina Samson

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

• Getting Ready for Halloween – Choosing Appropriate Costumes
• Fostering Purpose in Our Kids – Tuesday, October 29 (7:00 pm – 8:30 pm)
• Half-Day on Tuesday, October 29 – Early Dismissal Times
• Co-Curriculars
• Notes From the HCPA
• What’s on the Menu Next Week
• Your Child’s Personalized Calendar
• Key Dates on the Horizon

LATEST NEWS

Getting Ready for Halloween – Choosing Appropriate Costumes

Choosing a Halloween costume is something that our students look forward to each year, many starting their planning well in advance of October 31st! We are excited to see all of the creative costumes that they come up with!

As we get closer to the big day, we are asking for your help in ensuring that all costumes are appropriate.

Here are some questions that can assist when making a selection:

• Does this costume include any cultural or religious symbols that are not part of my child’s experience?
• Does this costume appropriate a significant item or hairstyle from a culture or race different from my child’s? 
• Does this costume trivialize or mock a marginalized community or promote a stereotype? 

If you aren’t able to answer these questions, or are uncertain in any way, it is best to make a different costume choice.  Thank you so much for taking the time to ensure that our school community is inclusive and respectful.

REMINDERS

Fostering Purpose in Our Kids – Tuesday, October 29 (7:00 pm – 8:30 pm)

As part of our Parents as Partners Speaker Series, Havergal is delighted to welcome Dr. Belle Liang & Tim Klein on Tuesday, October 29, authors of ‘How to Navigate Life’.   Their research and talk will focus on helping our kids find purpose and its vital connection to their wellbeing (and ours). The talk will be from 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm in the Legacy Theatre and will have relevant takeaways for parents of students of all ages (JK-12). Registration for the event can be found here. 

Our guest speakers will also be working with our students from Grades 7 – 12 during their day and running professional development with our faculty. This commitment to fostering purpose in students at Havergal and embedding its principles in our programming is a part of a year-long partnership with Liang and Klein and we welcome your partnership on this key next step in our commitment to wellbeing.

Half-Day on Tuesday, October 29 – Early Dismissal Times

We are thrilled that our teachers will have the opportunity to engage in professional development with Dr. Belle Liang & Tim Klein on Tuesday, October 29, prior to their presentation with our families.

Please note the following:

• Students will remain at school for lunch and lunch recess.

• 12:30 pm – 1:00 pm  Staggered dismissal 
  • Kindergarten to Grade 3
    • 12:30 pm – 12:45 pm
  • Grade 4 – Grade 6
    • 12:45 pm – 1:00 pm 
• Gator Care
  • Is available, at the regular fee, from 12:30 pm – 6:00 pm;
  • Registration is mandatory, so that we are able to plan accordingly;
  • To register, please complete THIS FORM , by Friday, October 25.

CO-CURRICULARS

Athletics

• Students were kicking, running, swimming and dribbling their way to success last week!  Good luck to our U10 soccer team who have their first game on Thursday and to our Gr. 1-3 Cross Country team who are participating on campus at the Havergal Fun Run on Friday, Oct. 18th from 1:45 pm – 2:45 pm.
• Please check the JS Athletics Schedule and Veracross Calendar for upcoming games and meets. 

Clubs

• Due to the holiday on Monday, when the school is closed, clubs will reconvene on Tuesday, October 15, 2024.

NOTES FROM THE HCPA

Ivy Market

Save the date for Ivy Market – Tuesday, November 21. 

Grade 1 & 5 Breakfasts

Reminder to RSVP for the Grade 1 and Grade 5 breakfasts. 

• Grade 1 Breakfast RSVP Link (Wednesday, October 16 @ 7:30 am)
• Grade 5 Breakfast RSVP Link (Thursday, October 17 @ 7:30 am)

WHAT’S ON THE MENU NEXT WEEK

• JS Menu for October 15 – October 18 

YOUR CHILD’S PERSONALIZED CALENDAR

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

KEY DATES ON THE HORIZON

Tuesday, October 29 

• Early Dismissal for Teacher Professional Development
• Parents as Partners Speaker Series (7:00 pm – 8:30 pm in the Legacy Theatre)

Thursday, October 31

• Halloween – Students come dressed in their costumes

Thursday, November 7 – Monday, November 11

• School Closed for November Mid-term Break

Thursday, November 7 – Monday, November 11

• School Closed for November Mid-term Break

Tuesday, November 12

• Classes resume

Tuesday, November 21

• Save the date for Ivy Market

Dear Junior School Families,

This week Havergal observed Truth and Reconciliation Week, starting by participating in Orange Shirt Day on Monday, September 30. 

The Junior School is so pleased to have developed meaningful relationships with members of the Indigenous, First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities over the last  number of years. We are particularly grateful during TRC Week to partner with them, so that we can provide opportunities for learning and reflection. A sincere note of thanks to : Herbie Barnes, Marisa Magneson, Marjie Chud, Theresa Kutknife, Spirit Wind Women’s Hand Drum Group, and The Redsky Performance Group. It was an honour to welcome everyone back to the Junior School this week, and we look forward to continuing to work alongside them.

It is our hope that this week will inspire our students, not just now, but in the future to:

• Develop a deeper appreciation for the diverse histories, cultures, languages, and traditions of Indigenous, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples;
• Think about what truth and reconciliation means, and how they might take on Spirit Bear’s Call to Action; 
• Consider how we can stand up for equity and inclusivity, and recognize how small actions can contribute to building stronger, more respectful relationships.

For all those celebrating Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, we wish you a Shana Tova and a meaningful Yom Kippur.

Sincerely,

Kate

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

• Message of Support
• Fostering Purpose in Our Kids – Tuesday, October 29 (7:00 pm – 8:30 pm)
• Celebration Saturday – Thank you!
• Pizza Lunch is on Monday
• A Message From Our Gator Care Team
• Photo Retakes – Thursday, October 10
• Harvest Festival & Donations to the North York Harvest Food Bank (9:00 am – 9:30 am in the Brenda Robson Hall)
• Co-Curriculars
• Notes From the HCPA
• What’s on the Menu Next Week
• Your Child’s Personalized Calendar
• Key Dates on the Horizon

LATEST NEWS

Message of Support

As the school year progresses and its initial excitement ebbs and flows, the demands of classwork, co-curriculars and the pressure students place on themselves can feel daunting.

We also want to acknowledge that some students in our community may be carrying burdens beyond school. Family challenges, health and wellness concerns, local and world events, conflicts, and personal losses can weigh heavily on them.

As a compassionate community built on trusted relationships, we want our students and their families to know that the following resources are available for support whenever needed. Havergal is invested in the growth, care and development of your children and we want to partner with you in times of need. Below please find a list of resources and contacts available:

Junior School:

• Your daughter’s homeroom teacher
• Child and Youth Worker (Holly Fournier) 
• Chaplain (Rev. Jillian Ruch)
• The JS Leadership Team (Liz Watt and Kate White)

Fostering Purpose in Our Kids – Tuesday, October 29 (7:00 pm – 8:30 pm)

As part of our Parents as Partners Speaker Series, Havergal is delighted to welcome Dr. Belle Liang & Tim Klein on Tuesday, October 29, authors of ‘How to Navigate Life’.   Their research and talk will focus on helping our kids find purpose and its vital connection to their wellbeing (and ours). The talk will be from 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm in the Legacy Theatre and will have relevant takeaways for parents of students of all ages (JK-12). Registration for the event can be found here. 

Our guest speakers will also be working with our students from Grades 7 – 12 during their day and running professional development with our faculty. This commitment to fostering purpose in students at Havergal and embedding its principles in our programming is a part of a year-long partnership with Liang and Klein and we welcome your partnership on this key next step in our commitment to wellbeing.

Celebration Saturday – Thank you!

Thank you for your participation in Celebration Saturday and your support of our community partners! We’re excited to share a video that highlights the incredible work our students are doing alongside these partners: “Community Partnerships at Celebration Saturday 2024.

Pizza Lunch is on Monday

Our students are excited for the first pizza lunch of the year! Should you have any questions regarding this program, or Food Services in general, please contact chartwells@havergal.on.ca 

If your child is not signed up for Pizza lunch, please have them bring a packed lunch. 

A Message From Our Gator Care Team

Should you and your family attend Gator Care, we encourage you to read the Gator Care Monthly Blast. This will provide you with a high-level overview of what is happening, and quick reminders

Photo Retakes – Thursday, October 10

Photo Retakes are this Thursday, October 10 in the afternoon. If you wish your child to have their photo taken, or your child was away, please sign up here:

JS Photo Retakes

If you have any questions, please reach out to the photographer, Cameron Hubbs at: 905-599-3557 or by email at: cameron@echophotography.ca.

REMINDERS

Harvest Festival & Donations to the North York Harvest Food Bank 

Harvest Festival

• What students should wear # 1 Concert Dress, which 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  
• Time and Location
  • The service will begin promptly at 9:00 a.m., and will end at 9:30 a.m. in the Brenda Robson Hall, which is located in the Upper School
• Photos and Videos
  • We will have members of our Marketing and Communications’ Team on hand to take videos and photos of the service;
  • As in Prayers, we ask families not to take photos or videos during the service. Should your daughter have a speaking role, you are permitted to take a photo or short video, and we ask that you be discreet while doing so.
• Parking
  • Parking is extremely limited at the school. We encourage you to walk, carpool, or take alternative transportation. Should you wish to drive, you are invited to check out Spot Angels, which can assist you in finding nearby free or paid parking options. 

Food Drive

The Food Drive is still happening all next week! Please note that the North York Harvest Food Bank is looking for the following items. These can be brought to school and placed in the boxes outside the library.

• Pasta, Rice, Grains
• Canned Tomatoes
• Canned Vegetables
• Cooking Oil
• Canned Fish
• Baby food/formula

CO-CURRICULARS

Athletics

Congratulations to our 6 Junior School Basketball teams, which had their first tournament of the season. Also, our U12 Soccer team went on to play against Bayview Glen. 

Good Luck to the Cross Country and the Swim team on their second meet of the season next week. 

Please check the JS Athletics Schedule and Veracross Calendar for upcoming games and meets. 

Clubs

• Clubs are off to a fantastic start and it’s been wonderful walking the halls to see the various activities in action. 

NOTES FROM THE HCPA

Grade 1 & 5 Breakfasts

Reminder to RSVP for the Grade 1 and Grade 5 breakfasts. 

• Grade 1 Breakfast RSVP Link
• Grade 5 Breakfast RSVP Link 

WHAT’S ON THE MENU NEXT WEEK

• JS Menu for October 7 – 10 

YOUR CHILD’S PERSONALIZED CALENDAR

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

KEY DATES ON THE HORIZON

Monday, October 7

• First Pizza Lunch of the year

Thursday, October 10

• Harvest Festival (Brenda Robson Hall – 9:00 am – 9:30 am)

Tuesday, October 29

• Half-Day

Thursday, October 31

• Halloween – Students come dressed in their costumes

Thursday, November 7 – Monday, November 11

• School Closed for November Mid-term Break

Tuesday, November 12

• Classes resume

Dear Junior School Families,

We are looking forward to seeing everyone tomorrow at Celebration Saturday! Be sure to read all essential information that is needed to enjoy the day! This can be found below.

To help students understand the purpose of this day, and how in addition to it being a fun-filled day for the school, it is also an opportunity for us to raise funds in support of our community partners. Ms. Watt spoke about how we have built relationships with our community partners over time, and how acts of generosity can work in two directions, where everyone involved can benefit. 

We were thrilled to welcome Ms. Judith Reda, the Community and Corporate Fundraising Manager of one of our community partners – North York Harvest Food Bank, to prayers this morning. She taught us a little bit about the work they do to support the 30,000 people, many of whom are children, use their services, and how our donations make an impact. A food drive, in support of The North York Harvest Food Bank starts on Monday, and will run until Thursday, October 10. This year, we have also arranged for each of our Grade 6 classes to visit the food bank, have a tour, and sort donations.

Finally, a reminder that we will be honouring Truth and Reconciliation Week at Havergal, from JK – Grade 12. All the details you need to know can be found below.

Sincerely,

Kate

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

• Celebration Saturday
• Truth and Reconciliation Week – All You Need to Know for Next Week
• Harvest Festival & Donations to the North York Harvest Food Bank (9:00 am – 9:30 am in the Brenda Robson Hall)
• Celebrating Diwali in the Junior School on Friday, October 25 – Call for Participation
• Student Photos – Ready for Ordering
• Private Music Instruction 2024 2025
• Co-Curriculars
• What’s on the Menu Next Week
• Your Child’s Personalized Calendar
• Key Dates on the Horizon

LATEST NEWS

Celebration Saturday – Essential Information

The campus is set and we are ready to host Celebration Saturday 2024!  A huge shout out to all of our volunteers for making this day possible. 

Attendance

• While attendance is mandatory for students in Grades 4 – 12, students in JK – Grade 3 and their families are highly encouraged to join in the fun!
• Bring extended friends and family…the more the merrier!

Wristbands and Tickets 

• Pre-purchased wristbands have been sent home with students in envelopes.
• For those who were not able to purchase in advance, there is no need to worry! Wristbands and tickets will be available to purchase in person tomorrow at the Upper School Rotunda, and the Upper School Dining Hall at 9:00 am
• Please note that this will primarily be a CASHLESS EVENT but some vendors and food trucks will accept cash.

Schedule

• 9:30 am Opening Ceremonies on Ratcliffe Field (students and their families are asked to come directly to the Ratcliffe field, rather than meeting at the Junior School, as has been done in the past.)
• 11:30 am Silent Auction Closes 
  • Please note that bidding is online, and is already open. Bid early and often!
  • See the items here or in the Brenda Robson Hall. 
  • Winners can pick up items at noon.  
• 1:00 am Event Concludes

Plan Your Route

• Here is the map of the campus with all of the details for the day.
• Be sure to make time to stop by The Bazaar in support of Old Girls/Alum, Parents, and student entrepreneurs in the Brenda Robson Hall.
  • A list of vendors is here

What to Wear

• Students are asked to come dressed in House Colours
• Parents are encouraged to dress casually and comfortably

Supervision of Students

• Primary girls (JK to Grade 3) must be accompanied by their parents.

Parking

• There is extremely limited parking available at the school on this day.
• Should you wish to drive, you may consider checking out Spot Angels which can assist in finding legal parking spots. 
• We highly encourage everyone to explore alternative transportation options on this day, such as walking, biking, or taking public transit.

Truth and Reconciliation Week – All You Need to Know for Next Week

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) week is a significant event that aims to educate and raise awareness about the history and ongoing impacts of the residential school system on Indigenous, First Nations and Métis communities. It’s an opportunity for students, parents, and educators to engage in meaningful dialogue and reflection.

During TRC week, we welcome Indigenous guests who share their stories and cultural practices, such as drumming, dance and drama, which are integral to their heritage. These activities not only honor Indigenous traditions but also foster a deeper understanding and respect for their culture.

By participating in TRC week, we aim to build bridges of understanding and reconciliation, ensuring that the lessons of the past lead to a more inclusive and respectful future for all. Your involvement and support in this week are crucial in helping us achieve these goals.

Monday, September 30 – National Orange Shirt Day 

• All students (JK to Grade 12) are invited to wear an orange shirt on top of their regular uniform to honour those Indigenous children who were sent to residential schools, many never to return. This is not a dress down day.
  • Please note that students were originally told to wear their Orange shirts on Tuesday in the Junior School. They are to wear them on MONDAY instead. 

Tuesday, October 1 – Friday, October 4

• We have arranged for thoughtful, age-appropriate programming, in collaboration with members of the Indigenous, First Nation and Métis communities, throughout the week.

Harvest Festival & Donations to the North York Harvest Food Bank (9:00 am – 9:30 am in the Brenda Robson Hall)

The Junior School annual Harvest Festival takes place on Thursday, October 10th at 9:00 am in the Brenda Robson Hall (Upper School). This formal service is an ideal and heart-warming start to the Thanksgiving long weekend, and a wonderful way for our community to gather and celebrate all that we have to be thankful for, as well as to support our community partners at the North York Harvest Food Bank. We look forward to welcoming you and your family members!

Donations to the North York Harvest Food Bank (September 30 – October 10)

The Junior School will be running a food drive in support of the North York Harvest Food Bank, between Monday, September 30 and Thursday, October 10. Students in JK to Grade 6 are asked to bring in non-perishable food items for donation. The following items are urgently needed:

• Pasta, Rice, Grains
• Canned Tomatoes
• Canned Vegetables
• Cooking Oil
• Canned Fish

Please send your donations to school with your daughter. The can be placed in the bins outside the Junior School Library. 

Please note that parking is extremely limited for this event. As such, we encourage you to find alternative arrangements to come to the school, or to find alternative legal parking spaces using Spot Angels.

Celebrating Diwali in the Junior School on Friday, October 25 – Call for Participation

Diwali is the Indian “festival of lights,” and is acknowledged by Hindus, Jains and Sikhs around the world, and celebrates the triumph of good over evil. If you or your daughter(s) would like to be involved in delivering the message at Diwali Prayers, please let Rev. Jillian Ruch (jruch@havergal.on.ca)  by Tuesday, October 1, 2024. 

Should you wish to send in pictures of your family celebrating Diwali, to be included in our slide deck, please share them with Rev. Jillian Ruch, no later than Friday, October 18.

Student Photos – Reading for Ordering

We’re delighted to announce that your daughter’s school pictures are now available online for viewing and ordering.

To access your photos, visit Echo Photography When prompted for a password, enter your student’s unique Person ID.  Ordering is a breeze, and you can customize your prints or digitals with several options to suit your preferences. Check them out and share them with your family and friends.

If you have any questions or special requests, please get in touch with Cameron Hubbs at cameron@echophotography.ca or by text at 905-599-3557 

REMINDERS

Private Music Instruction 2024 2025

Private Music Instruction is open!  Please register via the Veracross Parent Portal using the last green button under Registrations. Once registration is complete, follow these instructions to access musician contact information.

CO-CURRICULARS

Athletics

Congratulations to our U11 Cross Country Team who swept the podium at the Havercrest meet on Thursday. A shout out to Halle Lamb, Charlotte Goldthorpe, Camille Rizvi and Emily Ke who placed 1st-4th out of 80 runners! 

Good Luck to our Basketball and Soccer teams who have their first game of the season this week. 

Please check the JS Athletics Schedule and Veracross Calendar for upcoming games and meets. 

Clubs

• Clubs are off to a fantastic start and it’s been wonderful walking the halls to see the various activities in action. 

WHAT’S ON THE MENU NEXT WEEK

• JS Menu for September 30 – October 4 

YOUR CHILD’S PERSONALIZED CALENDAR

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

KEY DATES ON THE HORIZON

Saturday, September 28

• Celebration Saturday (9:30 am – 1:00 pm)

Monday, September 30 – Friday, October 4

• Truth and Reconciliation Week
• Students are invited to wear their orange shirt on top of their uniform on Monday, September 30 

Monday, October 7

• First Pizza Lunch of the year

Thursday, October 10

• Harvest Festival (Brenda Robson Hall – 9:00 am – 9:30 am)

Dear Junior School Families, 

With the third week of school now complete, we are definitely in the “swing” of things.  It is so much fun to see our students run into school each morning, and witness all the ways that they are learning and growing already.

Today marked our inaugural “Thrive Day” in the Junior School. We were thrilled to have our Vice Principal of Student Life and Wellbeing, Ms. Krista Koekkoek join us in Prayers this morning. She spoke to us about the responsibility we have to take care of our own wellbeing, the wellbeing of other individuals’, and the wellbeing of our community. We then heard from Ms. Logaridis (Gr.2) who told us a story of perseverance and the power of a growth mindset (be sure to ask your daughter the story!) Ms. Fishman (JK) talked to us about the power of self-awareness, and how naming and understanding our emotions can help us to thrive. Finally,  Ms. Robertson, described how living a life that is aligned with her personal values helps her in being well

We are eager to spend more time over the course of the year supporting our students to develop just some of the behaviours they can use both now and in the future in support of wellbeing.

This week’s edition of The Weekly – Junior School contains information on the following:

• Reading Assessments Start Next Week
• Join us for An Evening with Jake Ernst (MSW, RP) – Monday, Sept 30th
• Private Music Instruction
• Tutors
• General Appearance
• Junior School Admission Ambassadors – Call for Volunteers
• Co-Curriculars
• Celebration Saturday
• Notes from the HCPA
• What’s on the Menu Next Week
• Your Child’s Personalized Calendar
• Key Dates on the Horizon

Enjoy the weekend!

Sincerely,

Kate

LATEST NEWS

Reading Assessments Start Next Week

Beginning next week on Monday September 23rd, core teachers will conduct individual reading assessments with all students across the school. In order to avoid disruption to instructional time, these assessments will be completed from 8:00am – 9:00am on selected mornings. Students who are not being assessed will enjoy extended outdoor play time. Teachers will reach out to parents of students being assessed in the earlier time slots to ensure early arrival is possible.

No special preparation is needed for these assessments and you will not receive any specific scores. These assessments give teachers the opportunity to closely observe students’ fluency, accuracy and comprehension while reading texts in a one on one setting. The results are triangulated with daily observations and other classroom assessments to determine students’ needs, monitor their growth, and plan instruction. Should any specific concerns arise, your daughter’s teacher will reach out to you, otherwise reading progress and learning will be discussed at Parent Teacher Conferences in November. Please reach out to your daughter’s teacher should you have any specific concerns about her reading.

In the meantime, please support your daughter’s reading progress by ensuring she is regularly engaging in independent reading at home and/or reading aloud to her.

Join us for An Evening with Jake Ernst (MSW, RP) – Monday, Sept 30th

“Helping Our Children Manage Their Digital Devices and Strike a Healthy Balance”

Parents in grades 4 – 9 are encouraged to join us for an interactive evening with Jake Ernst, a registered social worker, psychotherapist and Clinical Director at Straight Up Health. On Monday September, 30, please join us in the Legacy Theatre at 7:00pm to learn about new strategies to help our children manage their digital devices and strike a healthy balance at home. Jake has extensive experience helping parents navigate the challenges of parenting during this digital age.

We look forward to seeing you, please register HERE

Private Music Instruction – Scheduled to begin October 1, 2024.

There is a new process for Private Music Instruction at Havergal in 2024-2025, designed to support the well being and musical ambitions of our students.  Families interested in Private Music Instruction in 2024-2025 are welcome to access this link for details. 

Tutors

Our teachers are available to support students who may be finding curriculum content complex or require additional practice. Parents may sometimes pursue outside support from tutors to close learning gaps or provide additional support outside school hours. While we welcome the opportunity to occasionally connect with tutors to share areas requiring further practice, our teachers cannot prepare material or academic packages for tutors to use in their sessions with your child. 

Parents can refer to Veracross posts for content being explored in class, and tutors can access what students in each grade are learning, using the Ontario Curriculum and Resources Website. 

REMINDERS

General Appearance

Wearing the school uniform well and with pride signals to our community that we are a learning community that values integrity, inquiry, compassion and courage. What follows are guidelines about our student’s general appearance that stand in relation to grade- and school-specific uniform expectations. In these matters, we expect the co-operation and support of parents. This information can be found on page 52 of the Family Handbook.

A few reminders for JS Students:

• No makeup is permitted in the Junior School.
• Nail polish is permitted (Junior and Upper Schools). No acrylic or “bio-gels” permitted in the Junior School.
• A small stud or small ring may be worn in the nose and studs, small hoops (the size of a quarter) or small drop earrings may be worn in the ears.
•  In the Junior School, wearing multiple bracelets and necklaces is not permitted.
• Hair should be a natural colour for Junior School students.

Junior School Admission Ambassadors – Call for Volunteers

Although we have only just started the school year, the Admissions team is already looking ahead to September 2025! 

Beginning in early October, we will be offering Group Tours of the Junior School for prospective families, led by a group of committed parent volunteers. The tours will run on select Tuesdays and Thursdays each week at 9:30 am, 10:30 am, and 1 pm. Parent Ambassadors can sign up to give a tour according to their availability.

Our Parent Ambassadors play a crucial role in sharing the Havergal experience with prospective families. If you are interested in signing up to be a tour guide and joining our Parent Ambassador team for the upcoming school year use the following link: Parent Admissions Ambassador Sign Up

We will be in contact with all volunteers to invite you to join us for a training session (with coffee!) on Tuesday, September 24th at 9 am in the Junior School Dining Hall following Prayers.

Thank you in advance for considering supporting our department as we work to share the Havergal Junior School experience with prospective community members.

If you have any questions, please contact Sarah Szolopiak or Sarah Milligan in the Junior School Admission office.

sszolopiak@havergal.on.ca

416.483.3843 ext. 7614

smilligan@havergal.on.ca

416.483.3843 Ext.7548

CO-CURRICULARS

Athletics

• Good Luck to the U12 swim team and our Gr. 4&5 runners from the U12 Cross Country Team. These student-athletes will be participating in their first meet this week. 
•  Please check the JS Athletics Schedule for upcoming games and meets. 

Clubs

• Clubs will begin on Monday. Keep an eye out for an email from the club instructor. 

CELEBRATION SATURDAY- GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!

Please note that this is a mandatory event for all students in Grades 4 – 12. Students in JK – Grade 3 are also warmly invited to join in the fun in support of our community partners.

Skip the Line – get your tickets and wristband now!

Families can order tickets and wristband now!  Presales close on Monday September 23rd.  This is a cashless event so tickets are the only way to get a coveted cookie gram, cotton candy, popcorn or new, this year from our partners Chartwells, breakfast poutine.  Price lists can be found here. Order tickets and wristbands HERE.   Please know, this is a popular event so expect lineups for tickets that day so ordering tickets in advance is really encouraged.

Silent Auction

The Celebration Saturday Silent Auction is live! Sign up in advance and bid now. Thank you to all who have donated items – we have fabulous opportunities for experiences, one of a kind items and HC special passes like reserved seating at events.   Bid now, bid often and know the bidding closes at 11:30 at the event. 

Still Looking for Volunteers

We’re still looking for Celebration Saturday volunteers–even an hour or two helps. Please sign up here (click through the pages to see all opportunities). 

NOTES FROM THE HCPA

Grade 1 & 5 PJ Breakfasts

For Grades 1 and 5: Pick out your coziest pajamas and please save the date on October 16th and 17th for our annual Grade 5 breakfast!  An invitation with more details will be coming soon. 

Pre-Love Uniform Sale

The Pre Loved Uniform team would like to remind parents of their permanent collection bins across from the Learning Hub at the Junior School and in the alcove by the glass door entrance to the Upper School (across from the Green & Gold shop).  They gratefully accept skirts, tunics, pants, polo shirts, dress shirts, sweaters, 1/4 zip sweatshirts, jogging pants, blazers. 

WHAT’S ON THE MENU NEXT WEEK

• JS Menu September 23 – September 27 

YOUR CHILD’S PERSONALIZED CALENDAR

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

KEY DATES ON THE HORIZON

Saturday, September 28

• Celebration Saturday (9:00 am – 1:00 pm)
  • Please note that this is a mandatory event for all students in Grades 4 – 12. Students in JK – Grade 3 are also warmly invited to join in the fun in support of our community partners.

Monday, September 30 – Friday, 4

• Truth and Reconciliation Week
• Students are asked to wear their Orange Shirts

Monday, October 7

• First Pizza Lunch of the year

Tuesday, October 8

• JS High Holiday Prayers (8:25 am – 8:50 am in the JS Gym)
• Reception to follow in the JS Dining Hall

Thursday, October 10

• Harvest Festival (Brenda Robson Hall – 9:00 am – 10:00 am)

Friday, October 11 – Monday, October 14

• Thanksgiving Long Weekend

Tuesday, October 15

• Classes Resume

Friday, October 18

• Jewish High-Holiday Prayers and Reception (8:25 am – 8:50  am in the JS Gym; Reception in the Dining Hall)

Dear Junior School Families,

We have just completed our first full week back to school, and what a week it has been!

Dr. Samson joined us on Tuesday for Prayers, where she talked to us about her love of the Olympics, and admiration of top female athletes, like Canadians Summer MacIntosh and Ellie Black, who have dedicated their lives to training and competing at the highest level. More than this, she noted that one of the things that she was most inspired by at this year’s Olympics, was how even in the toughest of competitions, they were able to find the compassion, courage,  and integrity to first and foremost show support for their competitors’ successes. As we begin our year by asking our students to reflect on “how they want to feel in our community,” and  asked how they might be inspired to work hard, try their best, and set big goals, but to also think about how we can go about supporting one another and how we can make others feel, both in our best moments, and in our toughest.

It was a very timely message as we prepared to participate in The Terry Fox Run this afternoon. Terry Fox represented the best that Canadians have to offer. He was an example of courage, humility, determination, and perseverance. We were proud to be able to participate in the run, and to help raise funds for cancer research. Should you still wish to donate you, it’s not too late to access the Havergal College Terry Fox Donation Page.

Finally, thank you to all who were able to join us at our Junior School People and Program Night yesterday evening. For those of you who were unable to attend, please feel free to reach out to your daughter’s homeroom teacher, if you have any questions or would like to see the slide deck from their presentation.

This week’s edition of The Weekly – Junior School contains information on the following:

• Introducing Thrive Days
• JS High Holiday Prayers – Call for Participation
• Junior School Admission Ambassadors – Call for Volunteers
• JS Musical Update
• Delivering Lunches
• Labelling Your Child’s Belongings
• Co-Curriculars
• Notes from the HCPA
• Celebration Saturday
• What’s on the Menu Next Week
• Your Child’s Personalized Calendar
• Key Dates on the Horizon

LATEST NEWS

Introducing “Thrive Days”

We are thrilled to be introducing “Thrive Days” at Havergal this year. Thrive Days will occur throughout the year, and their purpose is to:

• Normalize the human experience of emotion, reduce stigma;
• Acknowledge that wellbeing is unique and diverse;
• Support reflection and awareness building in what community members need to be well;
• Provide new tools/skills to cope with life’s inevitable ups and downs;
• Align with Havergal’s Commitment to Wellbeing.

Our first Thrive Day in the Junior School will be on Friday, Sept 20. We will share the purpose of these days to the students at Prayers on that morning as well as explain the  activities they can take part in. We look forward to continuing to develop some of the behaviours we can use  to care for ourselves, to care for others, and to care for our community throughout the year.

JS High Holiday Prayers – Call For Participation

The Junior School will be acknowledging Rosh Hashanah/Yom Kippur during Prayers on Friday, October 18, from 8:20 am – 8:50 am, in the JS Gym. Families are warmly invited to join us for this event, following which there will be a small reception for parents in the Dining Hall.

If your child celebrates the High Holidays, and is interested in participating in this special Prayers, please let them know to come to the Gator Care room at 10:00 am on TUESDAY, September 17th to meet with Rev. Ruch, Mr. Lucasecu, Ms. Partyka and myself so we can start the planning. We also made an announcement about this at Prayers last Tuesday.

Junior School Admission Ambassadors – Call for Volunteers

Although we have only just started the school year, the Admissions team is already looking ahead to September 2025! 

Beginning in early October, we will be offering Group Tours of the Junior School for prospective families, led by a group of committed parent volunteers. The tours will run on select Tuesdays and Thursdays each week at 9:30 am, 10:30 am, and 1 pm. Parent Ambassadors can sign up to give a tour according to their availability.

Our Parent Ambassadors play a crucial role in sharing the Havergal experience with prospective families. If you are interested in signing up to be a tour guide and joining our Parent Ambassador team for the upcoming school year, please sign up using this link.

We will be in contact with all volunteers to invite you to join us for a training session (with coffee!) on Tuesday, September 24th at 9 am in the Junior School Dining Hall following Prayers.

Thank you in advance for considering supporting our department as we work to share the Havergal Junior School experience with prospective community members.

If you have any questions, please contact Sarah Szolopiak or Sarah Milligan in the Junior School Admission office.

sszolopiak@havergal.on.ca

416.483.3843 ext. 7614

smilligan@havergal.on.ca

416.483.3843 Ext.7548

JS Musical – Update

We want to let you know that due to a number of factors, we will not be producing a Junior School Musical this year. Don’t worry though! The Musical will be back at a later date!

Instead, we have arranged to run musical theatre programming for students in Grades 3 – 6, three times a year (one in each term). We are grateful for the incredible contributions of Ms. Carson and the JS team of teachers who have led our students over the last three years.

This term, we are very pleased to be working with Act One Productions, who have come highly recommended by a number of Havergal families. We look forward to continuing to support our aspiring actors and singers in developing their talents, and working as part of a team of peers who share their passion for the stage. Ms. Carson, Mme. Scharf, Ms. Iannarella, Mme. Rizzo and Ms. Remtulla will be running Musical Theatre clubs in both the winter and spring terms.

Delivering Lunches

We understand that there are times when it is not possible to get a student’s lunch packed and ready for the beginning of the day. Should you wish to drop off your daughter’s lunch bag at reception before lunch, you are welcome to do so.

We ask, however, that you not use food delivery services such as Uber or Skip the Dishes to send food to the school. 

If a child is ever in a position where they do not have a lunch or snack, we would be happy to ensure that they are well fed.

REMINDERS

Labelling Your Child’s Belongings

With school now fully underway, it ESSENTIAL that all students belongings are labelled! This is especially important for all uniform items, jackets, water bottles and food containers. If unlabelled, it is incredibly difficult to have them returned to the proper owner.

CO-CURRICULARS

Athletics

• Please register ASAP as Athletics starts on Monday. 
• Please check the JS Athletics Schedule and look out for an email from your coach. 

Clubs

• Registration has now closed and clubs will begin the week of September 23, 2024. 

NOTES FROM THE HCPA

Please make sure you RSVP for the HCPA coffee mornings next week (JK-Grade 3, Sept 17 and Grade 4-6, Sept 19). Drop in for a quick coffee and chat with other parents in your class and meet new one

CELEBRATION SATURDAY

Volunteers Needed

We’re still looking for Celebration Saturday volunteers–even an hour or two helps. Please sign up here (click through the pages to see all opportunities). 

Skip the Line – get your tickets and wristband now!

Families can order tickets and wristband now!  Presales close on Monday September 23rd.  This is a cashless event so tickets are the only way to get a coveted cookie gram, cotton candy, popcorn or new, this year from our partners Chartwells, breakfast poutine.  Price lists can be found here. Order tickets and wristbands HERE.   Please know, this is a popular event so expect lineups for tickets that day so ordering tickets in advance is really encouraged.

Please note that this is a mandatory event for all students in Grades 4 – 12. Students in JK – Grade 3 are also warmly invited to join in the fun in support of our community partners.

WHAT’S ON THE MENU NEXT WEEK

• JS Menu for September 16 – September 20

YOUR CHILD’S PERSONALIZED CALENDAR

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

KEY DATES ON THE HORIZON

Friday, September 20

• JS Thrive Day

Saturday, September 28

• Celebration Saturday (9:00 am – 1:00 pm)
  • Please note that this is a mandatory event for all students in Grades 4 – 12. Students in JK – Grade 3 are also warmly invited to join in the fun in support of our community partners.

Monday, September 30 – Friday, October 4

• Truth and Reconciliation Week

Monday, October 7

• First Pizza Lunch of the year

Thursday, October 10

• Harvest Festival (Brenda Robson Hall – 9:00 am – 10:00 am)

Dear JS Families,

I cannot tell you how wonderful it has been to welcome both our new and returning students to campus this week. The energy is amazing, and we are excited to see all that will transpire this year.

We had our first formal prayers this morning. I asked our students to consider the following question: “HOW DO YOU WANT TO FEEL AT SCHOOL?”

In the past, each class has created a set of classroom agreements or promises that they have committed to at the beginning of the year. This year, however, we are doing things a little bit differently. Instead of asking them to think about the ACTIONS they want to take at school, to foster a positive classroom community, we are asking them to reflect on how they want to FEEL, first. 

Our faculty and staff have been engaged in professional development for the last year, based on the work of Marc Brackett, who is the lead developer of “RULER.” “RULER” is an evidence-based approach to social and emotional learning (SEL) developed at the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence. We are thrilled to now be launching this approach with our students

RULER, an acronym for the five skills of emotional intelligence (Recognizing, Understanding, Labeling, Expressing, and Regulating). It acts to support entire school communities in understanding the value of emotions, building the skills of emotional intelligence, and creating and maintaining a positive school climate.

RULER aims to infuse the principles of emotional intelligence into the immune system of schools, enhancing how students learn, teachers teach, families, parents, and leaders lead. It has been proven to boost academic performance, decrease school problems like bullying, enrich classroom climates, reduce teacher stress and burnout, and enhance teacher instructional practices. 

To learn more, visit: RULER Approach

Wishing you all a restful weekend. We are eager to see everyone back on Monday for our first full week together. 

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

• Gator Care Registration
• How You Can Support a SAFE and EFFICIENT Arrival and Dismissal Process
• Helpful Parenting Podcast: Untangling All Things Digital for Parents
• Prayers and Digital Devices
• People and Program Night – Thursday, September 12 (6:00 pm – 7:30 pm)
• Terry Fox Run – Friday, September 13 (1:45 pm – 2:45 pm on the Cohen Field) – for Students in SK to Grade 6
• Acknowledging Truth and Reconciliation Week & Orange Shirt Day
• Co-Curriculars
• Notes from the HCPA
• Celebration Saturday – September 28
• What’s on the Menu Next Week
• Your Child’s Personalized Calendar
• Key Dates on the Horizon

LATEST NEWS

Gator Care Registration

We wanted to let you know that there was an issue with the Gator Care Sign Up form on the Parent Portal. This has now been remedied. 

Should you wish to sign your child(ren) up regularly for Gator Care, kindly do so on the Parent Portal. Alternatively, simply use the following link: Gator Care Registration Form.

How You Can Support a SAFE and EFFICIENT Arrival and Dismissal Process

Join us in ensuring that our Junior School remains a consistently safe environment for everyone in our community. Our amazing team of teachers and security professionals are here to support in this process, please follow their directions!

Parking

• Only JK/SK Parents/Guardians are permitted to park in the Junior School Parking Lot, so that they can pick up their child from the  JK/SK door, at the rear of the building.
• No other families are permitted to park in the JS parking lot during dismissal.
• Please note that there cars must NEVER be left unattended along the driveway, as this impedes traffic flow during both arrival and dismissal.

Arrive for Dismissal at School During Your Child’s Designated Time 

• Group 1: JK & SK: Students will be dismissed at 3:00 pm.
• Group 2: Grades 1 – 3:  Students will be dismissed at 3:05 pm.
• Group 3: Grades 4 to 6:  Students will be dismissed at 3:15 pm. 
• Please NOTE
  • If you are early, you may be asked to temporarily leave the Junior School driveway.If you have more than one child, please arrive during the time slot assigned to your eldest child.

Dismissal Cards

• Have your laminated dismissal card clearly visible. 
• It is easiest to see if it is placed on the dashboard of the front passenger seat.

When Using the Carline

• Stay in the “cue,” rather than driving ahead and around other vehicles, unless instructed otherwise by one of our security professionals.
• Have students ready to exit, curbside, as soon as your car stops alongside the curb (backpacks, water bottles, etc, should be easily accessible). Stay in your car, if at all possible. If you need to exit your car to assist your child to get out of a car seat or booster, please do so quickly. DO NOT LEAVE YOUR CAR UNATTENDED AT ANY TIME!
• 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. 

When Walking

• Cross at the designated crosswalk with the crossing guard and flashing pylons, and NOT across the driveway exit.

To learn more, please refer to our Junior School Arrival and Dismissal  Protocols.

Helpful Parenting Podcast: Untangling All Things Digital for Parents

Dr. Lisa Damour publishes excellent weekly podcasts for parents on relevant issues. Last week’s recording was particularly resonant as we look to supporting our students with device use both in school and at home. 

Dr. Damour explores top concerns like:

• managing kids’ screen time
• the pressure to get devices
• handling social media’s impact on teenagers

They also discuss valuable strategies for: 

• putting boundaries on technology use
• keeping phones out of bedrooms
• dealing with the reality of kids encountering toxic content online

REMINDERS

Prayers and Digital Devices

It was so lovely to see so many parents and grandparents at Prayers this morning. Families are always most welcome to join us.

With the launch of our new Havergal College Digital Device Policy 2024-25, we are asking that parents put their phones away during Prayers. This is very helpful in modelling the behaviours we are asking from our students. 

We know that when a student is performing or delivering a message in Prayers, that family members want to capture it on video or in a photo. We understand this, and simply ask that you do this discreetly, and then put the phone away, once they have finished. Thank you for your partnership as we strive to nurture a positive school culture; reduce distractions; and foster the digital wisdom of our students.

People and Program Night – Thursday, September 12 (6:00 pm – 7:30 pm)

We are very much looking forward to welcoming families to people and program night next week.

Here is a link that outlines the JS People and Program Evening Schedule:

Terry Fox Run – Friday, September 13 (1:45 pm – 2:45 pm on the Cohen Field) – for Students in SK to Grade 6

The 2024 Terry Fox School Run is set for the afternoon of Friday, September 13, from 1:45 pm – 2:45 pm. Students can come to school dressed in their phys-ed uniform for the day. Every year Havergal makes a huge difference with our donations to fund cancer research, while also building incredible school spirit. 

Ways to donate:

• Havergal has raised over $275,000 in support of The Terry Fox Foundation, to date!
• Please support our school’s fundraising efforts once again this year through our  Havergal College Terry Fox Donation Page
• Receipts are issued immediately to donors by email from the Terry Fox Foundation

Who can participate:

• Students in SK to Grade 6 will all take part!
• This is very much a community event, so all families are invited to join in by walking or running. Please meet us at the Cohen Field at 1:45 pm.
• We kindly ask, however, that your furry friends stay at home. 

What students need to bring/wear:

• Students will come to school dressed in their phys-ed uniform for the day
• A water bottle 
• A hat 
• Please dress appropriately for the weather 

Acknowledging Truth and Reconciliation Week & Orange Shirt Day

Havergal will be honouring Truth and Reconciliation Week from Monday, September 30 – Friday, 4. Please note that this is just part of Havergal’s commitment to understanding what Truth and Reconciliation means, and will be revisited throughout the year. 

Students are invited to wear an orange shirt on this day, on top of their regular HC uniform on Monday, September 30th.

Should your child wish to wear an orange shirt on this day, here is a list of vendors who sell orange shirts that are either designed by Indigenous artists, are sold at Indigenous-owned businesses, or whose donations are going to reconciliation efforts:

• Native Art Society  
• The Cedar Basket
• Resist Clothing 
• Old School General Store

CO-CURRICULARS

Registration for co-curricular activities is still open! 

Athletics

• Please register ASAP as Athletics starts on Monday. 
• Please check the JS Athletics Schedule and look out for an email from your coach. 

Clubs

• Registration closes on Thursday, September 12 at 8pm.

NOTES FROM THE HCPA

We are looking forward to hosting coffee mornings throughout the fall.  Please make sure you RSVP for the HCPA coffee mornings next week if it is for your grade.  Drop in for a quick coffee and chat with other parents in your class and meet new ones.

CELEBRATION SATURDAY – September 28,2024

Ticket sales will begin soon – check next week’s Weekly for the link! Looking to volunteer? We’re still looking for Celebration Saturday volunteers–even an hour or two helps. Please sign up here (click through the pages to see all opportunities). 

Please note that this is a mandatory event for all students in Grades 4 – 12. Students in JK – Grade 3 are also warmly invited to join in the fun in support of our community partners.

There are still a few vendor spots left at the Celebration Saturday Bazaar. Please email Martha Fell (martha@jaxxandmarbles.com) and complete this form and contract.

We are also seeking items for our amazing Silent Auction. Click here for more details.

WHAT’S ON THE MENU NEXT WEEK

• JS Menu for September 9 – 13 

YOUR CHILD’S PERSONALIZED CALENDAR

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

KEY DATES ON THE HORIZON

Thursday, September 12

• People and Program Night  (6:00 pm – 7:30 pm in the JS Gym)

Friday, September 13

• Terry Fox Run (1:45 pm – 2:45 pm on the Cohen Field)

Saturday, September 28

• Celebration Saturday (9:00 am – 1:00 pm)
  • Please note that this is a mandatory event for all students in Grades 4 – 12. Students in JK – Grade 3 are also warmly invited to join in the fun in support of our community partners.

Monday, September 30 – Friday, 4

• Truth and Reconciliation Week

Monday, October 7

• First Pizza Lunch of the year

Thursday, October 10

• Harvest Festival (Brenda Robson Hall – 9:00 am – 10:00 am)