Dear JS Families,

As we head into our final days together for the 2022-2023 school year, I am mindful of all that this year has brought us, and am very much looking forward to the opportunity to come together one last time on Wednesday, June 14. This will be a time of celebration, community, and gratitude.

Many families are eagerly planning for the summer months, and looking forward to more unstructured times, with lots of opportunity for family time and play. With this in mind, we invite you to listen to Dr. Lisa Damour’s podcast titled “How much structure should kids have in the summer.” In this insightful episode, Dr. Damour addresses essential questions such as appropriate bedtime, reasonable expectations for chores, and optimal screen time for students, especially considering the new report  from the U.S. Surgeon General.

We are thrilled to announce that we will be welcoming Dr. Damour to speak to our community in November. She is the renowned author of the New York Times best-selling books “Untangled” and “The Emotional Lives of Teenagers,” as well as “Under Pressure.” Stay tuned for more details in the fall.

Please note that our final edition of “The Weekly” will be sent on Wednesday, June 14.

Sincerely,

Kate

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

• Overview of Next Week
• Report Cards
• Athletics 
• HCPA Updates
• Your Child’s Personalized Calendar
• End of Year Events
• Dates on the Horizon
• What’s on the Menu Next Week

LATEST

Overview of Next Week

Monday, June 12 

• Regular School Day
• Grade 6 Leaving Ceremony (Grade 6 families only)
  • 4:00 – 5:00 pm Leaving Ceremony (JS Dining Room)
  • 5:00 pm – 5:30 pm Reception (Bio-Wall in the Upper School)
    • Students to wear #1 Dress

Tuesday, June 13

• Last Day of Gator Care

Wednesday, June 14 (Half-Day) 

• NO GATOR CARE (AM or PM)

JS Closing Ceremony

• Timing:
  • 8:00 am – 8:20 Students arrive at regular time
  • 11:00 am – 12:00 pm JS Closing Ceremony (Brenda Robson Hall)
  • 12:00 pm – Regular Dismissal from the Junior School 
• Dress – #1 Concert Dress:
  • White long-sleeve dress shirt OR White short-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 
• Attendees:
  • All JS students, faculty and staff
  • JS families are welcome to attend
• Parking:
  • Parking is EXTREMELY limited for those families wishing to attend the Closing Ceremony. We highly encourage you to walk, carpool, take public transit or make alternative arrangements

Report Cards

Report cards will be available online at 9 am on Wednesday, June 21.

How to Access Student Files

1. Sign into the Veracross Parent Portal
2. In the upper left, select My Children, then select Student Files under the child you wish you view
3. In the Files section, select Download next to the file you wish to view

ATHLETICS

We have reason to celebrate: 237 of our 267 students in Grades 1 to 6 were involved in at least one athletics team or squad this year! This is a new record and we look forward to many continued successes in the 2023-24 school year. 

For the first time in CISAA history, a U12 Ultimate league was formed. Havergal was the only school to enter an all-girls team as they played against other co-ed schools. A highlight was losing to Toronto Montessori School 10-2 and coming back to beat them 7-6 by the end of the season. What an event to watch! 

Congratulations to our U12 Softball Team. Ms. Mastri, Ms. McIntyre and Ms. Simms-Brown worked effortlessly to build the skills and confidence of these students. As a result of the player’s hard work, they competed against other schools and had an undefeated season. 

The Track and Field Team were running, jumping and throwing their way to success. The students enjoyed pod-style meets where all 94 team members participated in every event.

Congratulations to the U10 Track and Field Team for placing second overall and to the U11 and U12 Teams for placing first overall! This is quite an accomplishment.

This season there were five Squads running. Having three separate Grades 1, 2 and 3 Multisport Squads allowed for a higher quality of programming so that each grade could be challenged in different ways. 

We were fortunate to have the expertise of our external coaches Emily and Aaliyah to support two Soccer/Basketball Squad Teams. This skill development our Grade 3 and 4 participants received will prove to be beneficial to our soccer and basketball program in the years to come. 

Throughout the year, a professional photographer has taken pics of the athletes in action at the Junior School. These make great gifts for loved ones. If your child was part of the Athletics program at Havergal please take a look through these Athletics photographs. 

As a final note, we want to wish our graduating Grade 6 athletes well as they continue in their healthy, active journeys into Middle School.

HCPA UPDATES

HCPA Fundraising Goal Achieved!

Thank you to all parents who contributed to our fundraising efforts this year. We donated over $70,000 to Havergal College as a result of your generosity! Please see the June Grade Rep Email for more details.

Mabel’s Labels

Need labels for your kid’s clothes for summer camp? Click HERE to order labels.

Celebration Saturday is back – September 23!

The HCPA plays an important role in Celebration Saturday and we look forward to working with the school on this extraordinary event.  Did you know that 100% of the profits go directly to HC’s Community Partners? 

We will be looking for many volunteers to help on the 23rd but there are also other ways you can be involved.  Have you always wanted to sell your wares at a Bazaar? Whether you are a parent, a student, an Old Girl/Alum, a teacher or staff member—this is your chance!  Do you have an item or experience you would like to donate to the Silent Auction? We would welcome your donation.  Stay tuned for more information in the coming weeks. If you know you are interested now, please feel free to email hcpa.committee@gmail.com.and we will add you to our contact list.

Reminder – Used Book Donation Drive and Pre-Loved Uniform Collection – June 14

Drop off books (and gently used uniforms) at the US curbside between 7:30 and 8 am or between 8:30 am and 12 Noon in the Ellen Knox Library. We will accept all used general books including children’s books, adult novels, cookbooks, etc. All proceeds from book sales support the HCPA fundraising goals. 

YOUR CHILD’S PERSONALIZED CALENDAR

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

DATES ON THE HORIZON

Wednesday, June 21

• JS Report Cards Available for Viewing on The Parent Portal at 9 am

Monday, July 3 

• Families will receive the FIRST of two summer messages from Havergal

Wednesday, August 23 

• Families will receive the SECOND of two summer messages from Havergal

WHAT’S ON THE MENU NEXT WEEK

JS Menu for June 12 &13 

Dear JS Families,

It was another great week in the Junior School!

A huge kudos to the cast and crew, teachers (Ms. Carson, Ms. Palarchio, Ms. Rizzo, Mme. Scharf, Ms. Mastri, and Ms. Iannarella), the many parents who made the 101 Dalmatians Musical come to life! This production was the culmination of five months of hard work and dedication and delighted all three audiences who came to see the show.

Our kindergarten students and Grade 12 graduates came together on Wednesday, for the highly anticipated “Teddy Bear Picnic” on The Cohen Field. This was an opportunity for our youngest students to thank our Grade 12s for all of their contributions to the school, and wish them all the best as they move on to the next exciting stage of their lives. Handwritten cards with well wishes were distributed and everyone enjoyed playing games together in their houses, and eating popsicles.

Finally, we ended the week with our annual JS Gator Day! ​​Students brought all their house pride as they participated in competitive events like the “The Ground is Lava,” an Obstacle Course, a Water Balloon and Sponge Toss, Tug of War and Mat Ball. Even the teachers got in on the fun with a relay race at the end. It’s safe to say that it was a fabulous day for all involved, and the perfect send-off to what looks like will be a sunny and warm weekend. A HUGE thank you to our Phys Ed Department who spearheaded the event, and made sure that everything ran smoothly. Finally, thank you to our Grade 6 students who took on leadership roles and acted as mentors to our younger students. 

Be sure to check out Havergal’s social media pages to see all the pics!

Kate

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

• Congratulations to our Grade 6 “Rick Hansen Difference Maker of the Year” Award Winners! 
• Lost and Found
• Packing Up for the School Year
• Supporting Your Child to be “Street Safe”
• Pizza Lunch is on Monday
• Athletics
• HCPA Updates
• Your Child’s Personalized Calendar
• End of Year Events
• What’s on the Menu Next Week

LATEST NEWS

Congratulations to our Grade 6 “Rick Hansen Difference Maker of the Year” Award Winners!

During the months of January and February, a small group of 12 Havergal Grade 6 students spent three afternoons at the Bloorview Authority School developing assistive technology for primary-aged children. Students applied the Engineering Design Process to design and build computer-controlled carnival-style games. The games were a huge success and the school’s administration nominated our team, called the Dear Everybody Design Team, for the Rick Hansen Difference Maker Award. On May 31st it was announced that our team, along with several other nominees from across Canada won the award. On June 2nd members from the Bloorview Authority School, including 2 students as well as a representative from the Rick Hansen Foundation were present at our Gator Day assembly to award the students with the certificates, The award included a $1000 cash prize, which the team donated to The Bloorview Authority School.

To learn more, CLICK HERE

Lost and Found

All named items will be returned to the appropriate recipients. Anything that is unnamed will be on display outside the music rooms next week, and classes will have the opportunity to walk by and claim unreturned items. Anything that has not been claimed by next Friday, June 9th will be placed either in the Pre-Loved Uniform donation box, donated to New Circles or disposed of.

Packing Up for the School Year

Teachers will be supporting students throughout next week in sending personal belongings and school work home. Please provide your child with a couple of reusable bags for them to help bring these materials home.

REMINDERS

Supporting Your Child to be “Street Safe”

We wanted to bring an incident that occurred yesterday, off of school property, that involved four Havergal students in Grades 5, 6, and 8 on Rosewell Ave, at the Roundabout while waiting to be picked up from school. The students were approached by a woman in a car, who was trying to give them something in a small plastic bag. We are extremely proud of each of them for not engaging, and immediately running back to school and bringing this to our attention. A member of our security team took a full description, and has filed a report to the Toronto Public Police outlining the event. 

While this is definitely unfortunate, it is an important reminder of the importance of speaking with our children about what to do if they are ever in a similar situation. We discuss these matters with our students, especially whenever we leave campus, not to incite fear, but to have them be aware and prepared. As we head into the summer, when many children will be exercising more freedom, we urge you to discuss ways that they can be “Street Safe. CLICK HERE for some tips for both kids and adults. 

Pizza Lunch is on Monday!

The JS will be enjoying our last Pizza Lunch on Monday, June 5.

ATHLETICS

Athletics for the 2022-2023 school year have now concluded! A huge thank you to all of our athletes, coaches and our Athletic Director, Anna Bartlett! 

HCPA UPDATES

Used Book Donation Drive and Pre-Loved Uniform Collection – June 14

Drop off books at the US curbside between 7:30 and 8 am or between 8:30 am and 12 Noon in the Ellen Knox Library. We will accept all used general books including children’s books, adult novels, cookbooks, etc. All proceeds from book sales support the HCPA fundraising goals. 

At the same time you can also drop off gently used uniform items as we are doing a large collection the same day.  It’s all happening at the Upper School! If you have uniform items to donate but cannot drop by on June 14, you are always welcome to place them in the Pre-Loved uniform bin outside the JS Learning Hub.

YOUR CHILD’S PERSONALIZED CALENDAR

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

END OF YEAR EVENTS TO MARK ON YOUR CALENDARS 

Monday, June 12 Grade 6 Crossing the Bridge Leaving Ceremony (Grade 6 Families Only)

• 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm – JS Gym

Tuesday, June 13 – Last Day of Gator Care

Wednesday, June 14 Junior School Closing Ceremony

• 11:00 am – 12:00 pm – Brenda Robson Hall
• Dismissal is at noon

WHAT’S ON THE MENU NEXT WEEK

• JS Menu for June 5 – June 9 

Dear JS Families,

Yesterday students in Grades 2 – 4 welcomed their Haverbuddies (Upper School student pen-pals) for a morning dance party. It was such a lovely opportunity for students, who have been writing each other letters throughout the year, to finally come together to meet each other, and have a little (actually…A LOT) of fun together! A huge thank you to Hana, our JS Prefect, for making this initiative such a success.

Finally, we are all eagerly awaiting next Monday and Tuesday when the JS Musical cast and crew of 101 Dalmatians will be showcasing all of their hard work! I know everyone from JK to Grade 6 will be the most excited and supportive audience. We are also looking forward to welcoming families and friends, who have signed up for tickets, to see the show!

Kate

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

• Junior School Gator Day – Friday, June 2 (12:35 pm – 3:00 pm)
• JS Musical – 101 Dalmatians – Final Reminders
• Rising Together Yoga – Thursday, June 1 (7:00 am – 7:45 am)
• Athletics
• HCPA Updates
• Your Child’s Personalized Calendar
• End of Year Events
• What’s on the Menu Next Week

LATEST

Junior School Gator Day – Friday, June 2 (12:35 pm – 3:00 pm)

What is GatorDay?

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

Need to know information:

• Students (JK to Grade 6) should come dressed in
  • A House T-shirt; If your child does not have a House T-shirt, then she should wear a t-shirt, in her house colour
  • Havergal shorts, leggings
  • Running shoes
  • Please refrain from wearing any accessories (ie. necklaces, skirts, hair accessories) as the kids will be very active
  • Those with long hair, are advised to wear it up and off their face with a hair-tie
• Please also bring:
  • Sunscreen
  • A hat, and a hair tie. 
  • A labelled water bottle 
• Are spectators permitted?
  • Yes if you’d like but please watch from a distance and allow your child to participate in the day. If you think you will be a distraction then please do not attend.  
  • Parking is extremely limited.

REMINDERS

JS Musical – 101 Dalmatians

After much rehearsal, we are almost ready to present the Junior School Musical – 101 Dalmatians! Students will have the opportunity to see the production on May 29th and 30th It will take place between 8:30 am and 9:15 am on Monday, May 29th (JK – Grade 3) and Tuesday, May 30th(Grade 4 – 6) in The Legacy Theatre (located in the Upper School). Please ensure that your child arrives by 8:20 am at the latest on the day they will see the show, so that we can ensure the production starts promptly at 8:30 am.

A reminder that in lieu of physical tickets, we have partnered with North York Harvest Food Bank, and encourage a donation of a food item upon your entrance into the theatre. There will be boxes to place your food item at the entrance. Please see the list of urgently needed food here.

Rising Together Yoga – Thursday, June 1 (7:00 am – 7:45 am)

On Thursday, June 1st we will be hosting our first community Sunrise Yoga class. This event is held in support of mental health awareness and will be led by our very own in-house yoga instructor Ms. Robar. The event will occur on the Cohen Field from 7 am until 7:45 am. All grade 5 and 6 students are welcome to attend. We strongly encourage parents or guardians to enjoy us in this gentle morning flow. Please make sure to bring your own mat or towel.

Please sign up with the HERE. 

ATHLETICS

We had a wonderful week celebrating the end of year final games and meets!

Congratulations to: 

• The U12 softball team for their undefeated season! 
• The U12 Ultimate team for competing in a co-ed league and being the only other girls school. Their improvements throughout the season were impeccable. 
• The U12 Track team for their final meet of the season today!
  

Please note that this upcoming week is the last week for Multisport. 

HCPA UPDATES

Used Book Donation Drive – June 14

Mark your calendars to drop off used books on June 14! Drop off in the bins outside the JS Library. We will accept all used general books including children’s books, adult novels, cookbooks, etc…All proceeds from book sales support the HCPA fundraising goals. This is a great opportunity to do some spring cleaning!

YOUR CHILD’S PERSONALIZED CALENDAR

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

END OF YEAR EVENTS TO MARK ON YOUR CALENDARS 

Monday, May 29 and Tuesday May 30  Havergal Junior School’s performance of Disney’s 101 Dalmatians KIDS 

• Monday @ 8:30 am – Legacy Theatre
• Tuesday @ 8:30 am & 4:30 pm – Legacy Theatre

Friday, June 2, Junior School Gator Day 

• 12:35 pm – 3:00 pm

Monday, June 12 Grade 6 Crossing the Bridge Leaving Ceremony (Grade 6 Families Only)

• 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm – JS Gym

Wednesday, June 14 Junior School Closing Ceremony 

• 11:00 am – 12:00 pm

WHAT’S ON THE MENU NEXT WEEK

JS Menu for May 29 – June 2

Dear JS Families,

Today’s House Shout brought together our whole school, from JK to Grade 12 to celebrate everyone’s House Pride and to engage in a little friendly conversation. It was wonderful to see everyone on The Ratcliffe Field, cheering and showing off some Havergal spirit! It was a wonderful way to welcome in the May long weekend! Please be sure to check out HC’s social media platforms for videos and pictures of the fun.

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

Kate

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

• JS Musical
• Rising Together Yoga
• No Prayers on Tuesday
• Gator Care  – Last Day is June 13
• Athletics
• HCPA Updates 
• Your Child’s Personalized Calendar
• End of Year Events to Mark on Your Calendar
• What’s on the JS Menu Next Week  

LATEST

JS Musical – 101 Dalmatians

After much rehearsal, we are almost ready to present the Junior School Musical – 101 Dalmatians! Students will have the opportunity to see the production on May 29th and 30th It will take place between 8:30 am and 9:15 am on Monday, May 29th (JK – Grade 3) and Tuesday, May 30th(Grade 4 – 6) in The Legacy Theatre (located in the Upper School). Please ensure that your child arrives by 8:20 am at the latest on the day they will see the show, so that we can ensure the production starts promptly at 8:30 am.

A reminder that in lieu of physical tickets, we have partnered with North York Harvest Food Bank, and encourage a donation of a food item upon your entrance into the theatre. There will be boxes to place your food item at the entrance. Please see the list of urgently needed food here.

Rising Together Yoga 

On Thursday, June 1st we will be hosting our first community Sunrise Yoga class. This event is held in support of mental health awareness and will be led by our very own in-house yoga instructor Ms. Robar. The event will occur on the Cohen Field from 7 am until 7:45 am. All grade 5 and 6 students are welcome to attend. We strongly encourage parents or guardians to enjoy us in this gentle morning flow. Please make sure to bring your own mat or towel.

Please sign up with the link provided before May 26th. 

No Prayers on Tuesday!

Please note that we will not have Prayers on Tuesday, as students are continuing with their Literacy Assessments.

REMINDERS

Gator Care – Last Day: June 13

For planning purposes, please note that the last day of Gator Care (both morning and afternoon) is June 13.

ATHLETICS

Please refer to the JS Athletics Schedule.

HCPA UPDATES

Pre-loved Uniforms

The HCPA has new Pre-Loved Uniform bins! Please drop off gently used uniform items any time. You will find the new JS bin across from the Learning Hub. We will also do a large collection on June 14 at the Upper School. Drop off in the US laneway from 7:30 – 8 am OR in the Ellen Knox library from 8:30 am – 12 noon.

Used Book Donation Drive

Mark your calendars to drop off used books on June 14! Curbside drop off will be available from 7:30 – 8 am in the Upper School laneway OR you may drop books off in the Ellen Knox library (US) from 8:30 am – 12 noon. We will accept all used general books including children’s books, adult novels, cookbooks, etc…All proceeds from book sales support the HCPA fundraising goals.

YOUR CHILD’S PERSONALIZED CALENDAR

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

END OF YEAR EVENTS TO MARK ON YOUR CALENDARS 

Monday, May 29 and Tuesday May 30  Havergal Junior School’s performance of Disney’s 101 Dalmatians KIDS 

• Monday @ 8:30 am – Legacy Theatre
• Tuesday @ 8:30 am & 4:30 pm – Legacy Theatre

Monday, June 12 Grade 6 Crossing the Bridge Leaving Ceremony (Grade 6 Families Only)

• 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm – JS Gym

Wednesday, June 14 Junior School Closing Ceremony 

• 11:00 am – 12:00 pm

WHAT’S ON THE MENU NEXT WEEK

• JS Menu for May 22 – May 26 

Dear JS Families

Earlier this week we had the absolute pleasure of welcoming our New to Havergal Parents for a cocktail reception. In Dr. Samson’s opening address, she spoke about the “prideful joy” that we recently experienced at “The Marguerite” event that took place last week. This is an event where we honour all of our graduating students who have been at Havergal since JK, SK, or Grade 1, and celebrate their time at the school. I feel so grateful to experience this same “prideful joy” so often when working with and alongside our students, faculty and staff, and families. Just some examples this week alone have included:

• Having students from the Upper School run a workshop with our Grade 6s to answer all their questions about what life is like “across the bridge;”
• Practising the JS cheer with Hana, our JS Prefect, and her council so that we are ready to wow at House Shout next week;
• Hosting a Peer Review Team from the Canadian Association of Independent Schools, who visited classrooms, and met with our faculty, staff, board members, and parents, and having them remark on what a warm and welcoming community we have;
• Attending our last Grade Rep Meeting of the year, and thanking our amazing parent volunteers;
• Presenting our plans for a new JS Playscape to several parents and discussing how their support, along with others, will make a big difference;
• Watching some of our Grade 1s have the courage to play the piano for walk-in and walk-out in prayers – in front of over 300 people;
• Seeing JK self-portraits hanging outside the classroom, where students were asked to identify something that they are proud of about themselves;
• Listening to Grade 5 and 6 students who are participated in the “Public Speaking Club” share the speeches they had prepared throughout the term;
• Havergal hosting the first TEDx in nine years, and watching two former Junior School students, now in Grades 11 and 12 present
  • Addressing gender inequality and discrimination in competitive chess.  Carina is a Grade 11 student and chess player. In 2020, she won the Canadian National chess championship and has represented Canada at multiple World Youth and continental championships. As a girl in a traditionally male-dominated sport, she is passionate about addressing gender inequalities and biases in our lives. Watch more here
  • Does technology solve all our problems? Emma W. is a graduating student at Havergal who is passionate about STEM. After taking World Issues last year, a course outside her comfort zone, she acquired a newfound perspective on the world and a passion for sustainability and environmental stewardship. Watch more here.

I hope that your daughter too comes home this week, feeling a little of that “prideful joy” as well!

Wishing you all the best for a lovely weekend ahead.

Warmly,

Kate

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

• House Shout – Thursday, May 18 at 1:50 pm
• Gator Care 
• Victoria Day Weekend
• Athletics
• HCPA Updates 
• Your Child’s Personalized Calendar
• End of Year Events to Mark on Your Calendar
• What’s on the JS Menu Next Week  

LATEST

House Shout: Thursday, May, 18, 2023 at 1:50 pm (House Colour Dress Down Day)

Please note there will be NO prayers on Tuesday, May 16th, as our students will be partaking in a final house shout rehearsal. House shout is an annual whole school event  where students come together to showcase their house pride, and engage in a little friendly competition between houses. Students come to school in full house wear. The Junior School also has their very own cheer to kick off the event, which we have been practising over the last month, led by our Junior School Prefect, Hana and her council. We are beaming with excitement for Thursday May 18th, at 1:50 pm, when we will all come together as a community on Radcliffe Field for this eagerly anticipated event. 

Please note that parents are welcome to attend, and see HC’s House Spirit in action! Should you be able to attend, we kindly ask that you meet us at the field, and go to the top of the hill, or stand on the side, and not with the students. JS students will walk back to the JS in time for a regular dismissal. Please meet them at the Junior School.

Gator Care – Last Day: June 13

For planning purposes, please note that the last day of Gator Care (both morning and afternoon) is June 13.

REMINDERS

Victoria Day Weekend

A reminder that the May long weekend is almost here! The school is closed on Friday, May 19 and Monday, May 22. Classes resume on Tuesday, May 23.

ATHLETICS

Please refer to the JS Athletics Schedule.

Good Luck to the Ultimate and Softball Team who have double headers this week. 

Here is a pic of the 90+ Track Athletes at Varsity Stadium on May 2nd.

HCPA UPDATES

Pre-Loved Uniform Bins

The HCPA has new Pre-Loved Uniform bins! Please drop off gently used uniform items any time. You will find the new JS bin across from the Learning Hub. A huge THANK YOU to Tony Melo (Facilities) and Jon Owen (Communications) for their hard work re-purposing these former Havergal recycling bins.

YOUR CHILD’S PERSONALIZED CALENDAR

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

END OF YEAR EVENTS TO MARK ON YOUR CALENDARS 

With the end of the year right around the corner, I wanted to be sure to highlight some event Whole School, and Junior School specific events:

Thursday, May 18 – House Shout 

• 1:50 pm – 3:00 pm on Ratcliffe Field

Monday, May 29 and Tuesday May 30  Havergal Junior School’s performance of Disney’s 101 Dalmatians KIDS 

• Monday @ 8:30 am – Legacy Theatre
• Tuesday @ 8:30 am & 4:30 pm – Legacy Theatre

Monday, June 12 Grade 6 Crossing the Bridge Leaving Ceremony (Grade 6 Families Only)

• 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm – JS Gym

Wednesday, June 14 Junior School Closing Ceremony 

• 11:00 am – 12:00 pm

WHAT’S ON THE MENU NEXT WEEK

JS Menu for May 15 – May 19

Dear JS Families,

A huge thank you to all of those involved in making Pride Week such a success this year, as we celebrated the theme of “Proud to be Me!” It was wonderful to see our students, faculty and staff across both sides of the bridge come together to celebrate the many accomplishments of members of our LGBTQ2S+ community, and the challenges that many, both at Havergal and beyond, continue to face. 

To end the week, we had a fabulous celebration where our Grade 6s shared a performance of a traditional Boboobo Dance and Drumming  and drumming with  Dr. Kofi Gbolonyo, who is a professor of African studies and ethnomusicology (the study of music through cultural context), from the University of British Columbia. This performance highlights some of their learning with a whole grade performance at Prayers. Boboobo is the most popular social music and dance of the Central and Northern Ewe of Ghana and Togo. 

To learn more about some of Dr. Gbolonyo’s work, we also invite you to read the following article from a recent article on the CBC website:  “Music Is Everything:  Musician, professor in B.C. shines the spotlight on West African music, dance! We have been grateful for the opportunity to learn and experience Ghanaian art, music and culture through dance, songs and games throughout Dr. Gbolonyo’s artistic residency, and look forward to welcoming him back to the Junior School!

Sincerely,

Kate

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

•  “Pre-Loved” Uniform Drop-off Bin
• All Library Books Due by May 29th
• Athletics
• HCPA Updates 
• Your Child’s Personalized Calendar
• End of Year Events to Mark on Your Calendar
• What’s on the JS Menu Next Week  

LATEST

“Pre-Loved” Uniform Drop-off Bin

Should you have any uniform items that no longer fit your daughter, please feel free to drop them off at the new and improved “Pre-Loved” Uniform Bin. It sits in the Junior School beside the main staircase.

REMINDERS

All Library Books Due by May 29th

Please be advised that ALL JS library books will be due May 29th.  Once a student’s (or parent’s) account has been cleared, they will have permission to take out books for the summer, provided the student is returning to Havergal College.  A maximum of 5 books for junior students and 10 books for JK-Gr3 will be allowed.

Please make note that unreturned books will be subject to a replacement cost, as stated in the Havergal Library’s Book Borrowing Procedure.  Any books that have not been returned by June 23rd will be charged to your child’s school account.  There will not be refunds after this date, so, should you find the lost book, you may keep it or donate it to the library.  

ATHLETICS

Please refer to the JS Athletics Schedule.

Congratulations to the U12 Ultimate team who played their first 3 games on Tuesday in the pouring rain on Cohen field. They were the only all girls teams and represented Havergal with pride. Did you know that even at the international level this sport is played without a referee! The game relies upon a spirit of sportsmanship that places the responsibility for fair play on the player. 

HCPA UPDATES

JS A-mazing Race

Thank you to all who attended and helped out with this year’s edition of the JS Amazing Race! It was a great day of house competitions, dancing, and delicious treats on the afternoon of Sunday, April 30.  This year we had record attendance and good representation across all houses and grades in the Junior School. New this year were some special elementary school events imported from Japan—lots of fun!  Enjoy these photos from the day: portrait photos are HERE and candid photos are HERE.  Thank you to all the volunteers and organizers for keeping this event “A-mazing”.

Havergal Frames

Deadline is TODAY! Frames, which feature the Havergal crest embossed on a green matte, are available in 5×7, 8×10, diploma and class composite/marguerite collage sizes. Click here for more information and to purchase.

Moms’ Night Out

Tickets are now on sale for Moms’ Night Out (May 24) at CIBO Wine Bar (Yonge/Eglinton location)!  Click here to purchase tickets.

JS Grade Rep Meeting

The next JS Grade Rep meeting is Wed, May 10, at 8:45am in Brenda Robson Hall.

All parents are welcome to attend.

YOUR CHILD’S PERSONALIZED CALENDAR

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

END OF YEAR EVENTS TO MARK ON YOUR CALENDARS 

With the end of the year right around the corner, I wanted to be sure to highlight some event Whole School, and Junior School specific events:

Thursday, May 18 – House Shout 

• 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm on Ratcliffe Field

Monday, May 29 and Tuesday May 30  Havergal Junior School’s performance of Disney’s 101 Dalmatians KIDS 

• Monday @ 8:30 am – Legacy Theatre
• Tuesday @ 8:30 am & 4:30 pm – Legacy Theatre

Monday, June 12 Grade 6 Crossing the Bridge Leaving Ceremony (Grade 6 Families Only)

• 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm – JS Gym

Wednesday, June 14 Junior School Closing Ceremony 

• 11:00 am – 12:00 pm

WHAT’S ON THE MENU NEXT WEEK

• JS Menu May 8 – May 12 

Dear JS Families,

A huge thank you this week to our Grade 4 Earth Week Ambassadors, and their teachers for preparing such thoughtful and engaging resources and experiences that aimed to celebrate our love for our Earth, educate our community about environmental issues and encourage action to protect the planet. Students and community members were encouraged to consider the 3Cs throughout the week, which include: Conserving, Cleaning Up, and Chiming In.

Some of the highlights of the week included:

• A visit from special Guest Speaker and HC Alum Quinn D, now a Communications Specialist with the Rob Stewart Sharkwater Foundation, who hosted two “lunch and learns” where she shared her passion for shark and ocean conservation and how it motivates her to find solutions for a more sustainable world;
• A ravine clean up for students in Grades 1 – 6 to remove waste in and around the Burke Brooke;
• Participation in a Book Exchange, where students could bring in gently used books and trade with their peers;
• An interactive experience, led by a senior astronomer from Space.com, where students where each class entered a large inflatable planetarium (dome structure) and saw a 360 degree immersive projection of a variety of videos suitable for Earth Week. Imagine looking at the the Great Barrier Reef, Sahara Desert, and other spectacular place on earth looking  around in all directions. Here is an example that you can watch on your laptop and spin around by clicking and dragging with your mouse. In the planetarium, it is projected all around. POLAR OBSESSION 360 | National Geographic
• A “No Power Hour,” where students, faculty and staff turned off the lights for an hour to conserve energy;
• An opportunity to take part in a fabulous workshop called ‘Splash On Earth’ where students from Grades 1 to 6 worked outdoors using paint made from repurposed food waste, integrating the arts, environmentalism, and community building. 

Our hope is that this week has inspired our students to conserve, clean-up and chime in, not just during Earth Week, but each and every day for our planet! Be sure to check out HC’s Social Media platforms to see some pictures!

Sincerely,

Kate

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

• All Library Books due by May 29th
• A Warm Welcome to Sarah Brodie – Social Worker (Student Placement)
• Pride Week – Monday, May 1 – Friday, May 5
• Paws up, Havergal – We Need Help with Costumes for 101 Dalmatians!
• Ticket Reservations – Havergal Junior School’s performance of Disney’s 101 Dalmatians KIDS  
• Athletics
• HCPA Updates 
• Your Child’s Personalized Calendar
• End of Year Events to Mark on Your Calendar
• What’s on the JS Menu Next Week (Pizza Lunch on Monday!)

LATEST

All Library Books due by May 29th

Please be advised that ALL JS library books will be due May 29th.  Once a student’s (or parent’s) account has been cleared, they will have permission to take out books for the summer, provided the student is returning to Havergal College.  A maximum of 5 books for junior students and 10 books for JK-Gr3 will be allowed.

Please make note that unreturned books will be subject to a replacement cost, as stated in the Havergal Library’s Book Borrowing Procedure.  Any books that have not been returned by June 23rd will be charged to your child’s school account.  There will not be refunds after this date, so, should you find the lost book, you may keep it or donate it to the library.  

A Warm Welcome to Sarah Brodie – Social Worker (Student Placement)

I am delighted to share that we will be welcoming Sarah Brodie to the Junior School for her student placement. Ms. Brodie holds a Bachelors in Social Work and is currently completing her Masters in Social Work through York University. She joined the team at Havergal’s Upper School in January to complete her student placement and will be with us until the end of the school year. Ms. Brodie will be working in the Junior School one day per week alongside our Child and Youth Worker, Holly Fournier.

Ms. Brodie has a background in visual art, sport, nutritional counselling and yoga therapy. Working in the home as a mother and in the community as a Social Worker, Ms. Brodie has uncovered a passion for supporting the mental and physical wellbeing of children and youth. She is thrilled to spend time in the Junior School this spring. Please join me in welcoming Sarah to our community. 

REMINDERS

Pride Week – Monday, May 1 – Friday, May 5

Next week is Pride Week! We are excited to have this opportunity to celebrate the LGBTQ2S+ community, and their many contributions locally, nationally, and here at Havergal. Our theme this year is “Proud to be Me,” and will allow us to come together as a community to promote equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging for all. 

The schedule for the week is as follows:

• Monday, May 1
  • As an introduction to Pride Week – teachers will introduce the theme of “Proud to be Me!” Books from our HC Library will be read to students, with guiding questions about what it means to belong, and ways that we can support one another to be our unique selves. Students will also be invited to wear a Pride Flag button, that will be handed out Monday morning in homeroom classes.
  • At recess, students will have the option to use sidewalk chalk to create messages of kindness and support in the front and back of the Junior School.
• Tuesday, May 2 – Dress Down Day!
  • Each student is asked to come to school wearing an article of clothing or an accessory of the colour that their grade was assigned for the JS Pride Flag. They do not need to be dressed head to toe in a particular colour, so there is no need to purchase anything! The colours are:
    • JK – Pink
    • SK – Turquoise
    • 1 – Green
    • 2 – Yellow
    • 3 – Blue
    • 4 – Orange
    • 5 – Red
    • 6 – Purple
  • Prayers: We are pleased to welcome Havergal parents, Kerry Weiland and Christina Sorbara Weiland to share the story of starting their family. All parents are welcome to attend prayers and wear the colour white to represent the parent community.
• Wednesday, May 3
  • Students will participate in a self-care journaling activity, during Wellbeing Time, to reflect on what it feels like to be accepted and respected for being who you are. As well, they will be asked to consider what it might feel like, to NOT be in this position.
• Thursday, May 4 – Dress Down Day 
  • Students in JK – Grade 6 are invited to wear something that they think makes them uniquely themselves 
  • Students in Grade 1 – 6 will be writing “I Am Me” poems to share what makes them unique and helps them express who they are, during wellbeing time;
  • Grade 5 and 6 are invited to participate in an optional Q & A led by Nicole Cozier, Executive Director, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (with a few students from the Upper School Pride Committee) regarding identity and belonging.
• Friday, May 5 
  • To wrap up the week, we will ask students to reflect upon what they have learned, and to bring forward any lingering questions they may have.
  • Finally, students will also have the choice to attend an optional age-appropriate “Read-Aloud” with our librarian Ms. Kelly during lunch recess.

Equity, diversity and inclusion are essential components of living Havergal ‘s mission (to prepare young women to make a difference) and its core values (courage, compassion, integrity and inquiry). Parents also play an important role in this! We recognize, however, some might not know how to answer your child’s questions or how to break the information down in a kid-friendly way. Here are some resources that we invite you to take a look at for your own learning and to consider how they might support you in future discussions you choose to have with your child: 

• 6 tips for talking about Pride month and LGBTQ+ rights with kids 
• Defining LGBTQ+ Words for Elementary Students 
• Books in the HC library that focus on identity, celebrating our differences, and encouraging inclusion 
• A Video Explaining the History and Evolution of the Pride Flag
• How to Support LGBTQ2S+ Family and Friends – What it Means to be an Ally 
• They, them, their — Why Some People use These Pronouns Instead of He or She  
• Do You Know What Two-Spirit Means? 

As always, should you have any questions, feel free to contact me, and I would be pleased to connect.

Paws up, Havergal – We Need Help with Costumes for 101 Dalmatians!

 Our performance of 101 Dalmatians is fast approaching and we need your help! We are looking to our community to see if anyone has the following items to loan out:

*All items should be child sized (Grades 4-6)

• 4 plaid kilts (preferably red) 
• 4 pink tutus
• 4 costume crowns
• 4 pairs of boxing gloves
• A police costume (size small-medium)
• A cat costume (size small-medium)

Thank you so much for your support! We look forward to seeing you at the show! 

Ticket Reservations – Havergal Junior School’s performance of Disney’s 101 Dalmatians KIDS  

For ticket reservations, please complete the ticket form by Friday, May 19, 2023. Tickets will be prioritized for the families of the students involved in the show. 

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

ATHLETICS

Please refer to the JS Athletics Schedule.

If your child needs an Athletics Sweatshirt please have her reach out to Ms. Bartlett

Good Luck to the Ultimate team and the Softball Team who are participating in their first game next week. 

HCPA UPDATES

JS A-mazing Race – This Sunday!

April 30 is almost here and we are really looking !  Can you help by volunteering?  We need lots of volunteers to make this year’s A-mazing Race a success. Please sign up HERE.

Havergal Frames

Frames, which feature the Havergal crest embossed on a green matte, are available in both 5×7, 8×10, diploma and class composite/marguerite collage sizes. Click HERE for more information and to purchase. 

Moms’ Night Out

A fun night out for Moms will take place on May 24 at CIBO Wine Bar (Yonge/Eglinton location). 

Tickets will go on sale soon!

HCPA Fleece – Order now!

Cuddle up with a new fleece in support of the HCPA!  We have reopened this shop for a limited time—the deadline to order is Thursday, May 4 (so they can be delivered before the end of the school year). Don’t miss out! Please note that this item is not part of the school uniform and is only available online. Click here to order.

YOUR CHILD’S PERSONALIZED CALENDAR

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

END OF YEAR EVENTS TO MARK ON YOUR CALENDARS 

Sunday, April 30 – JS A-mazing Race 

• 12:30 pm – 4:00 pm (please come to the Upper School Rotunda, where you can sign in)

Thursday, May 18 – House Shout 

• 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm on Ratcliffe Field

Monday, May 29 and Tuesday May 30  Havergal Junior School’s performance of Disney’s 101 Dalmatians KIDS 

• Monday @ 8:30 am – Legacy Theatre
• Tuesday @ 8:30 am & 4:30 pm – Legacy Theatre

Monday, June 12 Grade 6 Crossing the Bridge Leaving Ceremony (Grade 6 Families Only)

• 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm – JS Gym

Wednesday, June 14 Junior School Closing Ceremony 

• 11:00 am – 12:00 pm

WHAT’S ON THE MENU NEXT WEEK

• Pizza Lunch is on Monday!
• JS Menu for May 1 – May 5.pdf

Dear JS Families,

What a wonderful week it has been! It was such a pleasure to celebrate Founder’s Day yesterday at St. Paul’s Bloor Street with students from Grade 1 to 12! This was an opportunity for us to come together as a community in celebrating the laying of the cornerstone of our present Upper School building, which was laid on April 23, 1926.  For a full playlist of the event, please visit Havergal’s YouTube Channel.

The first message of the service came from the Chair of the Board of Governors, who spoke about the many ways that Havergal students, past and present go about “making a difference.” She shared a story that is very familiar to us in the Junior School, entitled “How Full Is Your Bucket – For Kids?” by Tom Rath and Mary Reckmeyer. This is the story of a young boy named Felix, who ​​begins to see how every interaction in a day either fills or empties his bucket. Felix then realizes that everything he says or does to other people fills or empties their buckets as well. 

Dr. Samson, also shared a story about how a group of our Grade 5s who recently became aware of an environmental issue here in Toronto. They learned that the black plastic containers that are so often used by restaurants are not recyclable. Why? Put simply, it cannot be sorted mechanically at the recycling facility because the optical sorting technology cannot recognize it. Curious if they could come up with a solution to this big problem, this group of students started to think, and came up with a Black Plastic Sorting Solution. They reached out to the Mayor’s office with what they came up with, and are excited to meet with Deputy Mayor McKelvie next week to further discuss how their solution might help solve this problem.

These two messages acted as powerful reminders that when our students start from a place that is grounded in our values – compassion, courage, integrity and inquiry – there is nothing stopping them from fulfilling Havergal’s mission, to prepare young women to make a difference, no matter how big or how small.

With this in mind, we look forward to celebrating Earth Week, starting on Monday. Please be sure to carefully review the schedule for the week, which is outlined below, so that you are aware of everything you need to know.

Wishing you all a happy and healthy weekend.

Sincerely,

Kate

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

• Junior School Ramadan & Eid al-Fitr Prayers Reception
• Paws up, Havergal – We Need Help with Costumes for 101 Dalmatians!
• Earth Week Schedule: Monday, April 24 – Friday, April 28 
• Pride Week: Monday, May 1 – Friday, May 5
• Ticket Reservations – Havergal Junior School’s performance of Disney’s 101 Dalmatians KIDS 
• Athletics
• HCPA Updates
• Your Child’s Personalized Calendar
• End of Year Events to Mark on Your Calendar
• What’s on Menu Next Week

LATEST

Junior School Ramadan & Eid al-Fitr Prayers Reception

Please join us on Tuesday, April 25 for our Ramadan & Eid al-Fitr Prayers Reception by RSVPing HERE.

The Junior School will be holding a reception for parents following Ramadan & Eid al-Fitr Prayers. At 9 am, parents are invited to the JS Dining Hall for coffee, tea and refreshments. Parents and students are welcome to wear traditional celebratory attire.

Paws up, Havergal – We Need Help with Costumes for 101 Dalmatians!

 Our performance of 101 Dalmatians is fast approaching and we need your help! We are looking to our community to see if anyone has the following items to loan out:

*All items should be child sized (Grades 4-6)

• 4 plaid kilts (preferably red) 
• 4 pink tutus
• 4 costume crowns
• 4 pairs of boxing gloves
• A police costume (size small-medium)
• A cat costume (size small-medium)

Thank you so much for your support! We look forward to seeing you at the show! 

REMINDERS

Earth Week Schedule: Monday, April 24 – Friday, April 28 

• Friday April 21st – Prayers – Introduction to Earth Week
  • Learn about the 3Cs: Conserving, Cleaning Up, and Chimining In! 
  • Book Exchange Information: Students are invited to bring in 1 to 5 of their favourite gently used kids books to exchange with their peers. Please drop off books outside the library anytime next Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday. 
• Saturday April 22nd – Earth Day 2023
  • Celebrate our fabulous earth today with family and friends! What can you do at home or in your community to help conserve, clean up, or chime in? 
• Monday April 24th – Animals That Matter Monday
  • Students will learn more about at risk land and ocean animals and what we can do to help protect endangered species. 
• Tuesday April 25th – Take Action Tuesday
  • Students will have opportunities to help conserve, clean up, or chime in. 
  • No Power Hour! Classes will challenge themselves to use no power for an hour.
  • We encourage your family to also choose an hour at home to go power free and help save energy! 
• Wednesday April 26th – Waste Free Wednesday
  • Paperless challenge day! 
  • We also encourage students to bring snacks that are waste free. 
  • What other small ways can you help reduce waste in your day to day lives? 
• Thursday April 27th – Thankful Thursday
  • Students will meet with their Houses to share gratitudes for the earth. 
  • BOOK EXCHANGE TODAY! Students who brought in books are welcome to come to the exchange to select a ‘new’ book or two to take home and enjoy. 
• Friday April 28th – Flourish Friday 
  • We are excited to announce a fabulous workshop called ‘Splash On Earth’ where students from Grades 1 to 6 will be outdoors using paint made from repurposed food waste. We look forward to this opportunity to integrate the arts, environmentalism, and community building. 
  • Grub Day – Let’s work together to reduce fast fashion waste. Students are invited to wear older clothes, hand me downs, or used clothing for the day. 

Pride Week: Monday, May 1 – Friday, May 5

Havergal is excited to be celebrating Pride Week from Monday, May 1 to Friday, May 5. Our theme this year is “Proud to be Me,” and is an important opportunity for us to come together as a community to promote equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging for all. IN preparation for this, our students from JK to 6 worked with our teachers and Upper School students last week to create their individualised squares that will contribute to our first JS Pride Flag. To learn more about the history and evolution of the Pride Flag click HERE.

Our Junior School Library is full of excellent resources. Please feel free to borrow any of our Pride Week Resources

Finally, we are excited to share the finalised schedule for Pride Week in next week’s edition of The Weekly.

Ticket Reservations – Havergal Junior School’s performance of Disney’s 101 Dalmatians KIDS  

For ticket reservations, please complete the ticket form by Friday, May 19, 2023. Tickets will be prioritized for the families of the students involved in the show. 

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

ATHLETICS

Please refer to the JS Athletics Schedule.

This information is also on your household Veracross Calendar. 

Congratulations to the U12 track team for all participating in their first POD” meet of the season. Every student experienced all of the events in track while trying to improve their personal best. 

HCPA UPDATES

Volunteer for the HCPA or become a Grade Rep

The HCPA general volunteer form for the 2023-24 school year is now available HERE. On this form you can nominate yourself to be a Grade Rep for your daughter’s class or a Community Ambassador. Don’t delay—the deadline for Grade Reps and Community Ambassadors is April 21.

Havergal Frames

Frames, which feature the Havergal crest embossed on a green matte, are available in 5×7, 8×10, diploma and class composite/Marguerite collage sizes. Click HERE for more information and to purchase. 

Moms’ Night Out – May 24

Save the date for a fun night out for Moms. Tickets will go on sale soon!

YOUR CHILD’S PERSONALIZED CALENDAR

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

END OF YEAR EVENTS TO MARK ON YOUR CALENDARS 

With the end of the year right around the corner, I wanted to be sure to highlight some event Whole School, and Junior School specific events:

Sunday, April 30 – JS A-mazing Race 

• 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm (if you have registered for this event, you will be receiving more information from the planning committee next week)

Thursday, May 18 – House Shout 

• 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm on Ratcliffe Field

Monday, May 29 and Tuesday May 30  Havergal Junior School’s performance of Disney’s 101 Dalmatians KIDS 

• Monday @ 8:30 am – Legacy Theatre
• Tuesday @ 8:30 am & 4:30 pm – Legacy Theatre

Monday, June 12 Grade 6 Crossing the Bridge Leaving Ceremony (Grade 6 Families Only)

• 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm – JS Gym

Wednesday, June 14 Junior School Closing Ceremony 

• 11:00 am – 12:00 pm

WHAT’S ON THE MENU NEXT WEEK

JS Menu for April  24 – April 28 

Dear JS Families,

As we approach the end of the week, I want to take a moment to appreciate the unseasonably warm temperatures we’ve had over the course of the last few days! It has been particularly lovely when welcoming our students in the morning, and having the opportunity to say a quick hello to families at pickup, with windows down and lots of smiling faces! 

Unstructured outdoor play is essential for young children’s physical, social, and emotional development, while also promoting creativity, problem-solving skills, and a love for nature. We have just loved seeing our students running around at recess, playing games, and simply enjoying themselves on our beautiful campus!

With the forecast calling for cooler and rainy days just around the corner, I hope that the weekend’s sunshine leaves you refreshed and energised for the week ahead.

Warmly,

Kate

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

• Havergal Junior School’s performance of Disney’s 101 Dalmatians KIDS – May 29 – May 30 in The Legacy Theatre!
• Earth Week – Monday, April 24 – Friday, April 28
• Pride Week – Monday, May 1 – Friday, May 5
• Opportunity for Parent Involvement in Creating a JS Pride Flag!
• Founders’ Day registration (Grades 1 – 6) – Closes today at 5 pm
• Birthday Treats and Invitations
• Athletics
• HCPA Updates
• Your Child(ren)’s Personalised Calendar
• End of Year Events to Mark on Your Calendars
• What’s On The Menu Next Week

LATEST

Havergal Junior School’s performance of Disney’s 101 Dalmatians KIDS – May 29 – May 30 in The Legacy Theatre!

This musical is based on the classic Dodie Smith novel and the beloved Disney films. The performance will be put on by over 60 students in Grades 4, 5 and 6, involving performers, set designers, costume designers, and media creators. Join Roger, Anita, Pongo, Perdita, and their pups as they race their way through madcap adventures and thwart the villainous Cruella De Vil!

All students in the Junior School will come to watch the performance during school time on May 29 and 30. Families are invited to join our audience! Our three performances will take place on May 29 at 8:30 am, May 30 at 8:30 am and May 30 at 4:30 pm. 

For ticket reservations, please complete the ticket form by Friday, May 19, 2023. Tickets will be prioritized for the families of the students involved in the show. 

Disney’s 101 Dalmatians KIDS is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International.

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

Earth Week – Monday, April 24 – Friday, April 28

Our Grade 4 students, and a team of teachers are thoughtfully working on programming for Earth Week, which is just around the corner! In keeping with Havergal’s mission to prepare young women to make a difference, they are preparing experiences and resources that aim to celebrate our love for our Earth, educate our community about environmental issues and encourage action to protect the planet. We will be providing you with a more fulsome overview of the schedule of events for students next week!

Pride Week – Monday, May 1 – Friday, May 5

Havergal is excited to be celebrating Pride Week from Monday, May 1 to Friday, May 5. Our theme this year is “Proud to be Me,” and is an important opportunity for us to come together as a community to promote equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging for all.

Our Pride Planning Committee (Ms. Watt – JS, Assistant Head, Ms. Fournier – JS Child and Youth Worker, Ms. Doyle – JK Teacher, Ms. Kaba – Co-ordinator, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging, Hana – Junior School Prefect, in collaboration with myself, and Nicole Cozier – Executive Director of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion and our JS student committee) have been carefully planning a variety of age appropriate activities to engage our students throughout the week. These will include: opportunities to learn about the history and significance of Pride and the many contributions of members of the LGBTQ2S+ community, specially chosen read-alouds by the teachers with guiding questions (the list of books and guiding questions will be shared prior to Pride Week), time to participate in art activities, as well as opportunities to reflect and celebrate what makes each student uniquely themselves, and why it is important to accept and respect what makes others unique.

Opportunity for Parent Involvement in Creating a JS Pride Flag!

As part of our Pride Week programming, our JS prefect, Hana, will be working with our students to create our very own Pride Flag, with contributions from our students, faculty, staff, and hopefully YOU! Click HERE to learn more about the history of the Pride Flag, and how it has evolved over time. 

Each group will be assigned a colour, as well as a square piece of paper. Students will be asked to colour the paper in their assigned colour, and to write one word describing something that they love about themself. This will be done at school, with support from teachers and Upper School students.

Hana will also be at the Junior School next week, on Wednesday, April 19, during dismissal to provide squares of paper, along with the colour assignment, to family members and caregivers who wish to participate. Extra squares will be available for pick-up at the JS front desk. Once complete, they can be returned to school with your child or dropped off at the JS reception area. 

Once all of the squares have been submitted, Hana and her crew will piece them together as a flag that will be displayed at the Junior School! 

REMINDERS

Founders’ Day registration (Grades 1 – 6) – Closes today at 5 pm

We have emailed parents who have not yet completed their child’s registration to Founder’s Day on Thursday April 20. All students must either have their registration complete by 5:00 pm today!

REGISTRATION and AAR FORM FOR Founder’s Day

Birthdays and Invitations 

We realise that it is not generally possible to send seasonal greetings and 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. Instead, students are invited to wear grub clothes on their birthday so that it can be acknowledged and celebrated. Students with a summer birthday are invited to wear their grub clothes on an alternate day, to be arranged with the Homeroom Teacher.

ATHLETICS

Please refer to the JS Athletics Schedule.

If your child is on a team this information is also on your household Veracross Calendar. 

HCPA UPDATES

Get involved with the HCPA in 2023-24

The HCPA’s nomination process is open now for the 2023-24 school year for HCPA Committee Positions. Connect with other parents, support the school and have fun by getting involved with the HCPA! Learn more HERE.

Volunteer for the HCPA or be a Grade Rep

The HCPA general volunteer form for the 2023-24 school year is now available HERE. On this form you can nominate yourself to be a Grade Rep for your daughter’s class or a Community Ambassador. Don’t delay since the deadline for Grade Reps and Community Ambassadors is April 21.

YOUR CHILD’S PERSONALISED CALENDAR

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

END OF YEAR EVENTS TO MARK ON YOUR CALENDARS 

With the end of the year right around the corner, I wanted to be sure to highlight some Whole School, and Junior School specific events:

Thursday, April 20 – Founder’s Day 

The schedule for the day is as follows:

• 8:15 am: Junior Choir departs
• 9:00 am: Grades 1 – 6 depart
• 10:00-11:00 am: Founder’s Day ceremony
• 11:00 am- JS departs from St. Paul’s Cathedral
• 11:30 – 12:30 pm: Lunch as per usual

We will have a regular schedule in the afternoon with our staggered dismissal as per usual from 3:20-4:00pm.

Please also note:

• Attendance is mandatory for all students in Grades 1 – 6
• All students must be in their #1 Dress Uniform
• Students in JK and SK do not attend Founders’ Day, and should arrive at school at the regular time.

Sunday, April 30 – JS A-mazing Race 

• 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm (Details to follow)

Thursday, May 18 – House Shout 

• 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm on Ratcliffe Field

Monday, May 29 and Tuesday May 30  Havergal Junior School’s performance of Disney’s 101 Dalmatians KIDS 

• Monday @ 8:30 am – Legacy Theatre
• Tuesday @ 8:30 am & 4:30 pm – Legacy Theatre

Monday, June 12 Grade 6 Crossing the Bridge Leaving Ceremony (Grade 6 Families Only)

• 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm – JS Gym

Wednesday, June 14 Junior School Closing Ceremony 

• 11:00 am – 12:00 pm

WHAT’S ON THE MENU NEXT WEEK

• JS Menu for April 17 – 21

Dear JS Families,

The arts play a crucial role in the development of young children in elementary school. Artistic expression fosters creativity, imagination, and critical thinking, all of which are essential for personal and academic growth. While all Havergal students have the opportunity to develop their visual, vocal, instrumental, and dramatic skills through curricular and co-curricular programming, many further enhance their learning outside of school. 

This week, we were delighted to celebrate the Arts this week in the Junior School! We heard from Upper School Arts’ Prefects, Sloane and Katie, about how music has played an important role in their development, and how it has helped them to develop their creative skills, and to express themselves. We were also thrilled to have students from the JS showcase some of their artistic talents through dance, drama, vocal and instrumental music. Be sure to ask your child about what they saw and heard! A reminder, as well, that students who would like to sing or play an instrument for walk-in or walk-out in prayers, are encouraged to reach out to Mr. McLean or Ms. Read to help arrange a time!

Finally, as we head into the long weekend, we wanted to be sure to take this opportunity to extend our warmest wishes to our families celebrating Passover, Easter and Ramadan. May this season of renewal and reflection bring you and your family joy, peace and happiness. 

Warmly,

Kate

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

• Ramadan and Eid Celebration – Call for Student Participation
• Report Cards – Available for Viewing on April 13
• Founder’s Day – Thursday, April 20
• Supporting our community partners – New Circles PROM DONATIONS!
• Athletics
• HCPA Updates
• Your Child(ren)’s Personalised Calendar
• End of Year Events to Mark on Your Calendars
• What’s On The Menu Next Week

LATEST

Ramadan and Eid Celebration – Call for Student Participation

This year we will be honouring Ramadan and Eid on April 25th during our JS assembly. If you mark this holiday in your home and your child is interested in participating in the prayers on April 25th, please email Megan Robar at mrobar@havergal.on.ca by Friday April 14th at noon. We will try and include every student who has volunteered, but if there is an abundance of interest, we will add each volunteer student’s name to our prospective speaker list to be included later in the year. Students who have been selected will be contacted.  

Report Cards – Available for Viewing on Thursday, April 13 at 4:00 pm

Report Cards will be ready for viewing on April 13 at 4pm. You can access the report cards from the parent portal this link  provides access instructions. 

Founder’s Day (Thursday, April 20)  

Founders’ Day, is the day that our community (students, parents, alumni, faculty and staff) joins together to commemorate the laying of the cornerstone for our present building and reflect on the values and traditions that were established at Havergal more than 100 years ago. Founders’ Day was established in 1976 – 50 years to the day of the laying of the foundation stone of the present building (on April 23, 1926).  

Founders’ Day takes place at St. Paul’s Cathedral on Bloor Street, Havergal’s Parish Church.

The schedule for the day is as follows:

• 8:15 am: Junior Choir departs
• 9:00 am: Grades 1-6 depart
• 10:00-11:00 am: Founder’s Day ceremony
• 11:00 am- JS departs from St. Paul’s Cathedral
• 11:30 – 12:30 pm: Lunch as per usual

We will have a regular schedule in the afternoon with our staggered dismissal as per usual from 3:20-4:00pm.

Registration – To be completed by 3pm on Friday, April 14

Please visit the link below to register your child’s participation. The link also allows you to consent to the Acknowledgement and Assumption of Risk (AAR) form associated with this excursion opportunity and must be completed in order for your child to attend the event. 

Link to register eAAR Excursions 22-23 USJS Day 

Please also note:

• Attendance is mandatory for all students in Grades 1 – 6
• All students must be in their #1 Dress Uniform
• Students in JK and SK do not attend Founders’ Day, and should arrive at school at the regular time.

REMINDERS

Supporting our community partners – New Circles PROM DONATIONS!

New Circles, one of Havergal’s Community Partners, is bringing Glow up for Prom back! They are hosting a “GLOW UP for Prom event” on April 14th, April 15th and April 16th. This is a “pop-up shop” style event that provides students (ages 17 – 18) from across Toronto the opportunity to pick out formal wear for prom, free of charge. It helps students in our local community as they celebrate the end of their highschool careers.

The Grade 5 students alongside Mme. Rizzo, Ms. Szolopiak and Ms. Read are leading and are asking for your help.

What you need to know:

• How can you help support this initiative? 
  • Review the lists below to see what you may be able to contribute
  • Items need to be clean, gently used or new, appropriate for 17 – 18 year olds
• WHEN can you drop off donations?
  • Monday, April 3 – Wednesday, April 12 
• WHERE can you drop off donations?
  • All donations can be placed in bins placed outside of the JS Library
  • Please bring your items folded, placed in clear plastic bags, and labelled.
• WHAT donations are needed?
  • CLOTHING:
    • gently used or new prom dresses – preferably newer styles
    • both long gowns and short gowns
    • men’s suit in mint condition
    • tuxes – either jackets, pants, or both
    • formal men’s vests
    • men’s dress shirts
    • formal shoes
  • ACCESSORIES:
    • necklaces, earrings for formal wear
    • small clutch purses
    • hair accessories  
    • socks (new only please)
    • bow ties, ties, suspenders, belts, cummerbunds for suits & tuxedos
    • Cufflinks
    • Make up (new only please)

Athletics

Please refer to the JS Athletics Schedule.

If your child is on (or trying-out for a team) this information is also on your household Veracross Calendar. 

HCPA UPDATES

Get involved with the HCPA in 2023-24

The HCPA’s nomination process is now open for the 2023-24 school year for HCPA Committee Positions. Connect with other parents, support the school and have fun by getting involved with the HCPA! Learn more HERE.

Volunteer for the HCPA or become a Grade Rep

The HCPA general Volunteer Form for the 2023-24 school year is now available. In addition to signing up to be a volunteer for events throughout the year, you may also use this form to nominate yourself to be a Grade Rep (for your daughter’s class) or a Community Ambassador. Don’t delay—the deadline for Grade Reps and Community Ambassadors is April 21.

Your Child(ren)’s Personalised Calendar

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

End of Year Events to Mark on Your Calendars

With the end of the year right around the corner, I wanted to be sure to highlight some event Whole School, and Junior School specific events:

Thursday, April 20

• Founder’s Day (10:00 am – 11:00 am – St. Paul’s Bloor Street)

Sunday, April 30 

• JS A-mazing Race (12:30 pm – 2:30 pm)

Thursday, May 18

• House Shout (2pm – 3pm on Ratcliffe Field)

Monday, June 12

• Grade 6 Crossing the Bridge Leaving Ceremony (4:00 pm – 5:00 pm)

Wednesday, June 14

• Junior School Closing Ceremony (11:00 am – 12:00 pm)

What’s on the Menu Next Week?

JS Menu for April 10 – 14