Dear JS Parents,

It has been another wonderful week at the Junior School, as we participated in Mental Health Awareness Week. This has been an opportunity to further shed a spotlight on the importance of understanding our Mental Health, and how it affects all parts of our lives. The overarching theme was:

BE healthy, BE optimistic, BE grateful. 

As part of this week’s programming, we were pleased to virtually welcome Sacha Bryce to the Junior School, from the Youth Wellness Network. She ran three separate assemblies for the students, that were age and stage appropriate. These were the areas of focus:

• JK – 1: Understanding The Range of Our Emotions and Knowing They are “O.K.”
• 2 – 4:  Developing our Sense of Self-Esteem and Self-Worth
• 5 & 6: Bringing Awareness To Our Choices Both “On and Off line”

Some of the affirmations and other activities throughout the week can be found by visiting Havergal’s Social Media pages. Be sure to ask your child(ren) about some of their learnings from the week!  Finally, I encourage you to read our next edition of “The Torch,” to learn more about Havergal’s ongoing commitment to the development of our students’ Wellbeing from JK to Grade 12.

Sincerely,

Kate White

Latest News

Christmas Break

Christmas Break

Havergal College will close on Tuesday, December 15 at 4 pm for the Christmas holidays and reopen on Monday, January 4 at 8 am for in-person learning. Havergal will continue to follow directions from the Ministry of Education and will make adjustments to our plans if required. Students who are required to quarantine are able to learn remotely on a temporary basis. Families should notify the DSO of the student’s absence and the student should let their teachers know to expect them on Zoom.

Havergal continues to support the public health requirements as directed by the Ontario Government to limit indoor public social gatherings to members of your household and outdoor gatherings to 10 people while maintaining physical distancing. Students who have not followed the requirements are asked to learn from home for 14 days.

3 Ply Masks

A three-layered mask is now recommended by the Public Health Agency of Canada to improve protection from COVID-19. 

With increased time indoors as the weather gets colder, we are updating the Havergal mask policy to align with the latest Public Health Agency of Canada recommendations. Please see specific directions for mask use here.
The Return to Campus Handbook has been updated to align with changes to health recommendations. The Daily Screening letter is provided here as well for your reference.

New Circles Holiday “Angels Initiative” Holiday Giving (JK to 12)

This November, Havergal College has the opportunity to deepen our Community Partnership with New Circles by participating in the Holiday Angels Program. New Circles is a not-for-profit agency that builds strong and caring communities by providing basic necessities, employment training, and settlement support to government-assisted refugees and to those living with lower-incomes. All services provided by New Circles operate to promote equity and dignity through their programming. 

This year, to prioritize safety, we are asking our community to purchase gift cards for our New Circles families.  There is no set limit for the gift card amounts, however, a tax receipt is available for all donations above $20 and with an original purchase receipt.

Suggested retailers:

• Walmart
• Best Buy/Source
• Shoppers Drug Mart
• President’s Choice
• Toys R’ US

There will be a box in each class for students to drop off cards until from Monday, November 23 to Thursday, December 3rd.

Latest News

Pick-up Safety

A reminder that your support is appreciated in keeping our campus safe. Your cooperation sets a good example for our students and further curbs the possibility of the spread of COVID-19 or other viruses. Please be reminded of the following:

Masks:

• As stated in the Return to Campus Handbook, when parents/caregivers/siblings are on school property, everyone must wear a masks.

Physical Distancing:

• When waiting for your child be sure that you do not block the walkway onto Rosewell. In addition it causing people to gather too closely, it impedes the pedestrian traffic flow and slows down the pick-up process.
• If you are bringing dogs and puppies to the school yard, we ask that you move quickly off property as to not create a crowd of children gathering. 

Please know that these requests and restrictions are all in the interest of keeping our children and our families safe.

Dear JS Parents,

Thank you so much for attending our first ever virtual “JS Parent-Teacher Conferences.”

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.  It is important to remember, however, that while the conferences provide an overview of your child’s academic and social-emotional development, ongoing feedback throughout the year is paramount.  Should you ever have questions or concerns, we invite you to contact us and be assured that we will do the same.

Sincerely,

Kate White

Latest News:

Invitation to Join ‘Parenting In Place 8-Week Masterclass Series (beginning November 17, 2020)

We’ve received an invitation from one of our parent speakers, author of “Middle School Matters”, Phyllis Fagell, to join the Masterclass Parent Speaker Series that she is helping to organize and will be participating in. This series could be attended to any family from JK to Grade 12. Please see below for the details and the link to register.

• Are you burned out, concerned about your child’s well-being and wondering how your family will manage during the holiday and flu seasons? There’s a SPECIAL LIVE MASTERCLASS SERIES designed to help you this fall: Parenting in Place: Helping Families Thrive in Challenging Times, featuring 8 live, interactive, weekly masterclasses with parenting experts including Tina Payne Bryson, Mona Delahooke, Tiffany Dufu, Devorah Heitner, Rosetta Lee, Cornelius Minor, Laura Vanderkam, Katie Hurley, Phyllis Fagell and more. Registration for the entire series— including access to replays, a bundle of more than two dozen bonus downloadable resources from our speakers, and a closed moderated Facebook group for the event — is only $39 US. See the whole line up and register here: https://parentinginplacemasterclass.com/

Reminders:

Student Safety during Drop off and Pick up 

We are asking for your help to ensure a smooth and safe traffic flow by adhering to the following:

• Slow down!  We have observed a number of cars both on the JS Driveway and along Rosewell Ave. driving too quickly in a school zone. This puts all members of our community at risk.
• Drivers are asked to remain patient and wait in the queue to drop off.
• Always signal your intentions when merging to pulling over during drop off. 
• Havergal Security is outside to help with the process and facilitate a smooth and efficient drop-off — please follow their directions. 
• After dropping off your child, promptly move along and exit the driveway. 
• Drivers need to remain in the car and refrain from unloading items from the trunk. Please have your child do this. Exiting your car slows down the process for all.

Remembrance Day Prayers & Poppies

We will be commemorating Remembrance Day on Monday, November 9th from 8:30 am – 9:00 am. Should you wish to attend, please use the link below

• Remembrance Day Zoom Link
  • Meeting ID: 940 5838 1423
  • Passcode: 960526

We will be distributing poppies to all students upon their arrival to their homeroom. Students are not required to, but are invited to donate money to the Canadian Legion at the time of poppy distribution.

Mental Health Awareness Week: Nov. 17-20

The week of November 17 the whole school (JK to Grade 12) will be shedding a spotlight on Mental Health Awareness. Students will continue to build a tool kit of strategies to better understand and manage their mental health. Specifically, each division in the JS will focus on one of the following:

• JK-Gr. 1: “Emotions are OK: Noticing and Naming Our Feelings” 
• Gr. 2-4:  How Self Esteem and Self Worth Affect Mental Health
• Gr. 5-6:  The Role Social Media Can Play in Our Mental Health

Please note that on Friday, November 20th, all students, JK to Gr. 12, are invited to participate in a “Comfy Cozy Grub Day,” and do not have to wear their uniform.

Dear Parents,

It has been a cold and rainy week, but that has not halted the warmth and sunshine inside the Junior School! Our students, both remote and on-campus are fully settled into their routines, and continue to thrive in their learning and play.

Please be sure to read today’s posting carefully, as it contains “need to know” information about the upcoming weeks. Please also be reminded that all calendar dates can be found on Veracross.

Sincerely,

Kate White

Latest News:

Halloween – Friday, October 30, “Dress-Up Day”

On Friday, October 30, students in JK to Grade 12 will be celebrating Halloween with a dress-up day, ALL DAY, for all students. Students are permitted to wear face makeup that is applied at home, but are not permitted to wear costume masks. All students must still wear a face mask, as they regularly would. 

Ms. Watt and our amazing Junior School Prefects have done some creative thinking to ensure this will be a truly SPOOK-tacular day!  We will document student entry, to create a “virtual Halloween parade,” students will participate in a door-decorating contest, as well as attend a virtual assembly in the morning. Our Grade 6 leaders have also been working hard to create Halloween themed activities to participate in during co-curriculars.

Diwali Prayers – Call for Submissions

The Junior School will be celebrating Diwali on Monday, November 2 during Prayers. If your family celebrates Diwali, we would love to have some photos to include of your family to include for our walk-in video. Please submit these to Reverend Douglas (sdouglasbowman@havergal.on.ca) by Friday, October 30th, so that they can be included.

Reminders:

Lockers – Outdoor Clothing (coats, boots, hats, etc…)

With the onset of the cooler weather, please ensure that your child has all of the appropriate outdoor gear required, so that she can fully engage in outdoor play at recess. Teachers will spend next week teaching students how to organize their locker or cubby, and how to use the space safely. Students are not permitted to purchase any kind of trinkets or decorations for their lockers or cubbies. Lockers will only be used only for boots and coats. All other items will continue to be stored in the classrooms.

Junior School Parent-Teacher Conferences

When do they take place?

• Thursday, November 5th from 1:30pm-7:30pm
• Friday, November 6th 8:00am-3:00pm

Registration

• Opens: Tuesday, October 27 @ 6pm
• Closes: Tuesday, November 3 @ 8am

Will Parent-Teacher Conference be held at school, or on Zoom?

• All Parent-Teacher Interviews will be held over Zoom.
• A link will be provided when you sign-up.

How to sign up:

• In order to sign-up, please go to Pick-A-Time 
  • Please note that this link will only allow you to register when registration opens on Tuesday, October 27th at 6pm.) 
  • A ‘Forgot Password’ link is available on the Pick-a-time website if needed.

Assistance:

• For assistance with Pick-a-time, contact our Service Desk at 416-483-3843 ext.6663 between the hours of 7:30am -5:00pm, Monday to Friday.

Ordering your Child’s School Photo

Your child’s school photos are now ready to be viewed and purchased. 

• The link to view and order pictures is:  HERE
• If you have any questions, please email Cameron Hubbs at cameron@echophotography.ca 

You will need your child’s student ID number which is the password to use when accessing the photos. Go HERE to view and order your child’s photos at your convenience.

Dear Parents,

This morning’s first ever Virtual Harvest Festival set the perfect tone with which to start the Thanksgiving weekend. It was such a joy for Ms. Watt and me to unveil the installation of the gratitude wall created by our students. This has been hung in the front hall of the Junior School, and will serve as a daily reminder for us all to practice an “attitude of gratitude.” Together, our community raised over $1800, to donate to The North York Harvest Food Bank. When we called them today, they wanted me to share their deep appreciation. If you were unable to join us for the service, I highly encourage you to view a recording of it here:  https://youtu.be/fpskcgO43EI

I am also filled with gratitude to have the honour to share some truly wonderful news with all of you. Ms. Watt, Junior School, Assistant Head is pregnant, and will be welcoming twins in late February! We have been working alongside Ms. Watt to ensure that her many responsibilities are fulfilled while she is on parental leave, and will update you accordingly. I know that you join me in wishing Ms. Watt your very best wishes and congratulations. 

Happy Thanksgiving!

Sincerely,

Kate White

Latest News:

Adjustments to the Fall School Calendar

As we continue with a successful start to the school year we have identified a need for additional Professional Development time in order for faculty to continue to deliver a high quality program. As we move forward, we will continue to reflect and adjust the calendar as required. We thank you for your ongoing support as we navigate this unique school year.

Please note the following adjustments in the Junior School Calendar. 

• Thursday Nov 5 & Friday, Nov 6: 
  • Teachers will be engaging in Professional Development on these days, as well as conducting Parent-Teacher Interviews.
  • Students (JK – Grade 6) are not at school on either of these days.
• Wednesday, Dec 2 
  • PD Day for Teachers
  • Students (JK – Grade 12) are not at school on either of these days
• Wednesday Wednesday Dec 16  
  • The Christmas Break will now begin on this date. The last day of classes before the break will be Tuesday, December 15.

Daily Screening Update

As you are aware, Toronto Public Health made changes to our daily screening this week. Thank you for attending to these screening questions carefully and completing this prior to your child’s arrival to campus. It is important to note that even if your child is absent, regardless of the reason for the absence, you must still complete the daily screening. Finally, once the screening is complete you are sent detailed instructions with next steps should any of the answers have been yes. 

Over the past four weeks, our families have supported the safety and health of our school remarkably well through our Veracross process. In consultation with our Return to Campus taskforce, we have determined that we will not be moving forward with Edusafe. Also, because of the success, and the routines families have developed around the screening process, we feel that to introduce a new procedure at this time is not in the best interest of the College. 

Junior School Photos

• The Junior School photos will be online and available for purchase on Wednesday, October 14. 
• The link to view and order pictures is:  HERE
• If you have any questions, please email Cameron Hubbs at cameron@echophotography.ca 
• Retakes are scheduled for Wednesday, October 21
• Please note that all students will receive a composite photo of their class later in the year.

Reminders:

Green & Gold Orders

Green & Gold orders that have been placed via our online shop, will now be delivered directly to classrooms, for students to bring home. Curbside pick-up at the Upper School, is no longer required for Junior School students.

Junior School Parent-Teacher Conferences

Parent Teacher Conferences will be held on Thursday, November 5 and Friday, November 6. Sign-up will start on Tuesday, October 27 at 6 pm and will close at 8 am on Tuesday, November 3. The link for sign-up will be shared in the next blog.

Dear Junior School Parent,

As we head into the Thanksgiving weekend, I wanted to express my gratitude for your collective support in our opening weeks of school. Whether your child has been learning on campus or participating remotely, the strength of the Havergal community has once again shined through.

We continue to  monitor the trends and regular communication from Toronto Public Health. In the event that schools are directed by the government to close, and that all teaching and learning must occur remotely, please be assured that the College is prepared to do this quickly, and as seamlessly as possible. Please read the information below. 

Learning Materials

• Students in JK to Grade 6 will  be sent home with the materials (e.g., notebooks, workbooks, etc) that they would require to continue learning from home, on Friday, October 9, should we need to move to a remote learning environment. Should we be able to return after the weekend, these materials should be brought back to school. If you know that your child will not be at school on Friday, please let the homeroom teacher know, so that we can arrange to have these materials  brought home earlier. 

Technology

• JK to Grade 2
  • Should the school close, and your child requires an iPad or Computer to participate in remote learning, please email: servicedesk@havergal.on.ca so that it can be arranged as quickly as possible.
• Grades 3 
  • Each student has been provided with an iPad, with a protective case. 
  • All families must complete the digital waiver by Thursday, October 8 at 12:00 pm in preparation for this program.
• Grade 4
  • Each student has been provided with a laptop. We ask that you please provide a protective case of the laptop.
  • All families must complete the digital waiver by Thursday, October 8 at 12:00 pm in preparation for this program. 
• Grade 5 & Grade 6
  • Each student has been provided with a laptop. Thank you for already providing a protective case for this. Each student will start bringing this home  at the end of each day on Monday, October 5 and then bring it back to school the next morning..
• Printer Access
  • It would also be helpful to ensure you have access to a printer at home, should anything need to be printed.

We will communicate with you promptly and provide any necessary information in the event of a school closure.  Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me, and I would be happy to discuss them with you.

Sincerely,

Kate White

Head, Junior School

Dear Parents,

We have just completed the first two weeks of school! Whether your child is on campus, or learning remotely, it has been energizing to be together again. A huge note of thanks to all members of our community as we adjust to our new routines, and adapt to school life once again.

In an effort to clarify, simplify and improve communication from the school, we are making several changes to the College Blog: Junior School . It will now be published once every other week, and will contain “Latest News” and “Reminders.”  

Regular information about your child’s classes or the school calendar can be accessed through Veracross. Please be sure to visit the parent portal: Veracross Login.  To learn how to subscribe to HC calendars, so that they appear on your digital calendar, see below:

• Calendar_Subscriptions_Parents_Google
• Calendar_Subscriptions_Parents_Apple
• Calendar_Subscriptions_Parents_Outlook

Sincerely,

Kate White

LATEST NEWS

Remote Students vs. Absent Students

Please see the linked document that clearly outlines the distinction between remote learners, absence and when temporary remote learning is possible.

Research Program

We are excited to announce that Havergal College will embark on a research program for the current academic year to assist in planning and evaluation of the new learning environment.  Your participation in this research is critical to our continued success. Havergal is collaborating with Elizabeth Lorenzin, a market research consultant, to conduct the research using a mix of surveys and focus groups.  Throughout the research project, any data collected will only be used for the purpose of the study and it will remain confidential.

A survey will be administered to students in grades 5 to 12 the week of October 5th.  If you do not wish your daughter to participate in our research studies, please send an email to lorenzinresearch@gmail.com by no later than the end of day Wednesday, September 30th  to ensure that you and/or your daughter are not contacted for research purposes.

REMINDERS

Wellbeing Program

The Wellbeing Program is well underway in the Junior School. This month we are focusing on Health and Safety Protocols, the Roles and Responsibilities of students, and on the importance of Making Connections.

For a more comprehensive understanding of the importance of our Integrated Wellbeing Program please review the Junior School Wellbeing Parent Handbook.

Co-Curriculars Start Next Week

The purpose of the Junior School Co-curricular Program is to provide students with an opportunity to participate in a variety of activities that foster and enhance student Wellbeing. These will take place on Tuesdays, Wednesday, and Fridays, within the school day for students in Gr. 1 to Gr. 6. 

No sign-up is required; students will participate within their cohort; there are no changes in uniform to be considered; and there is no additional charge for participation in the program.

Activities vary between a focus on Athletics and the Arts.  Examples of what students will be participating in include: skipping, playing tennis, running a kilometer challenge through the Lisa Hardie Trail, practising yoga, learning to draw, making crafts and acting.

Orange Shirt Day – Wednesday, September 30

Havergal is recognizing Orange Shirt Day on Wednesday, September 30th.

Orange Shirt Day is designed to promote the message that every child matters and to commemorate the residential school experience, honour the journey of survivors and their families, and commit to the ongoing process of reconciliation. We will be sharing the purpose of the day, in developmentally appropriate ways, with the students next week.

Students are invited to wear an orange shirt on this day.

Virtual Harvest Festival – Friday, October 9 (8:30 am)

Harvest Festival is a much beloved service that takes place in the Junior School before the Thanksgiving Weekend. It is an opportunity to give thanks as a community and to share our many blessings. This year we will be celebrating the “Art of Giving.”

Each student has been given a white ceramic tile, and is creating a picture of what giving means to them. Each tile will be used to create an art installation which will be hung in the front foyer. This will be unveiled at Harvest Festival. Thank you to Mr. MacLean, Ms. Mastri, and Ms. Read for overseeing this meaningful project.

In lieu of baskets and canned food donations, we are asking each family to kindly donate $10. You will receive a form from your child(ren)’s homeroom teacher next week, with further instructions. All funds will be donated to the North York Harvest Food Bank.

To join us for our very first Virtual Harvest Festival, please use the Harvest Festival Zoom Link (Passcode: 430436).  Feel free to share this link with your extended family, as they would be most welcome to attend.

People & Program Evening

Thank you to those of you who joined us virtually for People & Program evening last week. If you missed any of the sessions please visit your child’s class Veracross page for the recording or related information. Here is the recording of the JS People and Program Webinar that was also held in the evening.

Dear Junior School Parent:

Students in Grades 1 – 6 joined together today to talk about all the “ingredients” that go into “friendship soup.” Next time you are by the JS office, b sure to check out the qualities HC students think go into making a friend. Some questions to ask your daughter this weekend include: what does it mean to HAVE a friend, and what does it mean to BE a friend.

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend, with family and friends.

Sincerely,
Kate White

In this message, read about:

• Pizza Day
• Holiday initiative
• Green and Gold Shop
• Beyond the Ivy Walls
• Used Uniforms Available
• Athletics
• Frequently Used Links
• Next Week in the Junior School
• Important Dates on the Horizon

 Pizza Day – Monday, December 2

Just a reminder that Monday December 2 is Pizza Day.

Holiday Initiative – Red Door Shelter

This year, the Junior School community will be collecting canned goods and NEW winter clothing accessories for men, women, boys and girls. Each student will be asked to bring in a canned good and ONE of the following winter items: hat, mittens, socks or scarf.  We will then donate all the new winter accessories and the canned goods to the Red Door Family Shelter, a shelter that provides services to over 500 families and individuals who are in need of a safe shelter. 

Thank you in advance for your contributions to this wonderful organization! Let’s make this a holiday to remember for everyone! 

Green and Gold Shop – Enter through Main Doors

With safety always at the forefront of our minds, we ask that parents going to the Green and Gold Shop in the Upper School please sign in first at the security desk located in the rotunda.

Beyond the Ivy Walls

Calling all JS students with accomplishments outside of school to share!

Used Uniforms Available

Athletics

We have had a great 2 weeks of tryouts. We are proud to have a place on a Team or Squad Team for every Grade 5&6 swimmer or volleyball player. Congratulations to all of the girls for having the courage to tryout! Good Luck to our U12 Swim Team who have their first meet this week.
Squads and Squad Teams don’t start until January. 

Coaches Profile

Winter Athletics Season Schedule

Schedules
U12 Swim Team
U12 Hockey Squad Team
U12 Volleyball Gold Team
U12 Volleyball Green Team
U11 Volleyball Team
Master Schedule

Next week in the Junior School

Monday, December 2 (Day 8)

• 7:00 – 8:00 am: U12 GREEN Volleyball Team Practice
• 8:30 – 8:50 am: JS Prayers; Plastic Awareness 
• 11:50 – 12:50 pm: JS Pizza Lunch
• 11:50 – 12:20 pm: Gr.1-6 Chess Lunch Club
• 3:30 – 4:45 pm: U11 Volleyball Team Tryout (JS Gym)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.3-6 Strings Ensemble (Music Room)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr. 4-6 Kids Lit Quiz (Art Room)

Tuesday, December 3 (Day 1)

• 7:00 – 8:00 am: U12 Swim Team practice (pool)
• 8:00 – 8:55 am: Gr.6 Mass Band Rehearsal, Music Room
• 11:50 – 12:50 pm: Hockey Squad Practice (JS Gym)
• 12:10 – 12:50 pm: Gr.3 & 4 Math Discussion Group (Learning Hub)
• 3:30 – 4:15 pm: Gr.4-6 Junior Choir (Music Room)

Wednesday, December 4 (Day 2)

• 7:00 – 8:00 am: U12 GOLD Volleyball Team Practice
• 7:30 am: Departure of U12 Swim Team from US to Markham Pan Am Center
• 8:25 – 8:55 am: Grade 1-6 Mass Choral Rehearsal
• 8:30 – 9:30 am: JS Grade REP Meeting, Learning Hub
• 12:10 – 12:50 pm: Gr.3 & 4 Math Discussion Group (Learning Hub)
• 3:30 – 4:15 pm: Gr.1-3 Primary Choir (Music Room)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.4-6 Video Game Design (Rm.214)
• 4:00 pm: Return of U12 Swim Team

Thursday, December 5 (Day 3)

• 8:30 – 8:50 am: JS Prayers;
• 9:00 – 9:50 am: Andrea Beaty Author Visit, JK-Gr. 3, Learning Hub
• 11:50 – 12:50 pm: Forest of Reading Launch, Grade 5 and Grade 6, Learning Hub
• 3:30 – 4:45 pm: U11 Volleyball Team Practice (US Gym A) 
• 3:30 – 4:45 pm: U12 GREEN Volleyball Team Practice  (US Gym B) 
• 3:30 – 4:45 pm: U12 GOLD Volleyball Team Practice  (US Gym C)
• 3:30 – 4:15 pm: Gr. 5 Homework Club (Room 5C)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr. 4-6 Chem-Mystery (Rm.208, 4P)

Friday, December 6 (Day 4)

• 8:30 – 8:50 am: JS Prayers; Joy
• 7:30 – 8:15 am: Gr.4-6 Math Contest Prep Club  (Rm.215, 5C)

Important Dates on the Horizon

Dec 2: JS Pizza Lunch

Dec 13: JK/SK Christmas Concert (2pm in the JS Gym)

Dec 17: G.1-6 Christmas Concert (4pm in the Brenda Robson Hall)

Dec 18: Carol Service (St. Paul’s Cathedral – Bloor St)

Dec 19: Craig Cardiff Concert (8:25 am – 9:00 am)

Dear Junior School Parent:

Prayers this morning was another fantastic opportunity to observe the deep learning that happens in the Junior School. Students in Grade 1 shared the work they have been doing as part of an Investigative Research Project, on daily and seasonal changes.  It was a pleasure to watch some of our youngest learners display such courage and confidence as they spoke in front of the entire Junior School, and the many parents who came to watch their daughters. I was exceptionally proud of the students and appreciative of the tremendous thought and work that their teachers put into making the presentation possible.

Sincerely,
Kate White

In this message, read about:

• Wellness Week
• JS Photographs
• House Lunch
• Online Registration for Clubs and Athletics
• Used Uniforms Available
• Athletics
• Frequently Used Links
• Next Week in the Junior School
• Important Dates on the Horizon

 Mental Health Awareness Week

Next week we are shedding a spotlight to bring about more awareness on how we can better understand our mental health and develop strategies to manage our emotions.  Throughout the week, we will offer a toolkit of strategies to help students manage their big feelings.  Please visit Mental Health Awareness Week to see the happenings for the week.

JS Photographs

The deadline has been extended for ordering the Junior School Photographs online. The re-take photographs are not yet available to order, however we will contact you to let you know as soon as they go online.

To access your daughter’s school photos, please use the following link;

Order JS Photographs

When logging in, you will b asked for your email address. The password is your daughter’s student ID #.

We will be having another retake day if you missed the opportunity to get a retake photograph. Further details to be followed when we have a confirmed date. If you would like to register your daughter for a retake and have not yet done so, please email Aoife King aking@havergal.on.ca

House Lunch – Students to wear a House Colour Accessory on Thursday, November 21

Online Registration for Clubs -Open until Friday, December 20th

Winter Clubs List

Online Registration for Clubs ( excluding Music, Chess and Math)

Online Registration for Music, Chess and Math Club

Should you have any questions regarding club registration, please contact Ms. Moyo Soji (msoji@havergal.on.ca or 416-483-3519).

Used Uniforms Available

Athletics

Online Registration is open until Monday Nov 18th. Here is the Winter Athletics Season Schedule. I have been encouraging all of the girls to try something new and I hope that they will take part in Havergal Athletics. 

There is one more Gr. 3&4 Multisport and Soccer Squad Team practice to make up for the missed practice last week. All other Squad and Squad Teams are finished for the Fall season.

Next week in the Junior School

Monday, November 18 (Day 6)

• 8:30 – 8:50 am: JS Prayers, Mental Health Awareness Week, By: Rev. Douglas
• 11:50 – 12:20 pm: Gr.1-6 Chess Lunch Club (learning hub)
• 12:10 – 12:50 pm: Gr.5 & 6 Math Discussion Group (Learning Hub)
• 12:00 pm: JS Winter Athletics Online Registration Closes
• 3:30 – 4:45 pm: U11 Volleyball Team Tryout (JS Gym)
• 3:30 – 4:15 pm: Gr. 4 Homework Club (room 4M)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.1-2 Drama Club (Rm 121, SK) 
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.3-4 Drama Club (Rm.213, 3F)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr. 4-6 Kids Lit Quiz (Art Room)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.3-6 Strings Ensemble (Music Room)

Tuesday, November 19 (Day 7)

• 7:00 – 8:00 am: U12 Swim Team tryouts (pool) Meet at avenue rd.
• 8:30 – 8:50 am: JS Haverpals
• 3:30 – 4:15 pm: Junior Choir (Music Room)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.1-3 Tinker Lab (Rm.117, 2B)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.1-3 Farm Fresh (Rm. 122, JK)

Wednesday, November 20 (Day 8)

• 7:00 – 8:00 am: U12 Volleyball Team Tryout
• 8:25 – 8:55 am: Gr.4-6 Community Circles
• 8:25 – 8:55 am: Gr.1-3: Recognizing Big Feelings Assembly, By: Behaviour Matters
• 12:10 – 12:50 pm: Gr.2 Math Discussion Group (Learning Hub)
• 3:30 – 4:30 pm: Basketball Squad Team (Js Gym)
• 3:30 – 4:15 pm: Gr.1-3 Primary Choir (Music Room)
• 3:30 – 4:15 pm: Gr. 6 Homework Club (room 6L)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.4-6 Video Game Design  (Rm.214, 5G)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.4-6 Aspiring Architects (Rm.212, 6M)

Thursday, November 21 (Day 1)

• 7:00 – 8:00 am: U12 Swim Team tryouts (pool) Meet at avenue rd.
• 8:30 – 8:55 am: JS House Prayers, Courage
• 11:50 – 12:20 pm: JS House Lunch
• 12:10 – 12:50 pm: Gr. 3 & 4 Math Discussion Group (Learning Hub)
• 3:30 – 4:45 pm: U11 Volleyball Team Tryout (US Gym C) 
• 3:30 – 4:45 pm: U12 Volleyball Team Tryout (US Gym A/B) 
• 3:30 – 4:30 pm: Gr. 3/4 Multisport (JS Gym)
• 3:30 – 4:30 pm: Soccer Squad Team (Lower Pitch)
• 3:30 – 4:15 pm: Gr. 5 Homework Club (Room 5C)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr. 1-3:Ugly Doll Designers (Rm.209, 3P)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr. 4-6 Chem-Mystery (Rm.208, 4P)

Friday, November 22 (Day 2)

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

Important Dates on the Horizon

Nov 18-22: Mental Health Awareness Week

Nov 18: Winter Athletics Online Registration closes

Dec 2: JS Pizza Lunch

Dec 13: JK/SK Christmas Concert

Dec 17: G.1-6 Christmas Concert

Dec 18: Carol Service

Dec 19: Craig Cardiff Concert

Dear Junior School Parent:

Students and teachers in the Junior School didn’t let a little rain and wind get in the way of celebrating Halloween.  It was lovely seeing everyone dressed up in their costumes, and getting into the spirit of the day. Thank you to all those that joined us for our Halloween Parade and Assembly.

It has been an action-packed few weeks at the Junior School, and we woke up this morning to be greeted by winter’s first dusting of snow.  As we head into the weekend, we hope you find some time to take a breath, stay warm, and enjoy the company of family and friends

Yours sincerely,

Kate White

In this message, read about:

• Online Registration for Clubs and Athletics
• Remembrance Day Prayers
• Pizza Lunch
• Photo Retakes
• Midterm Break
• Athletics
• Frequently Used Links
• Next Week in the Junior School
• Important Dates on the Horizon

Online Registration for Clubs and Athletics – Opens on Monday, November 4

• Online booking opens on: Mon. Nov. 4 at 12:00 pm
• Closes on: Fri. Dec. 20th at 12:00 pm
• Please register through Veracross
• Clubs
  • Link to club offerings:  Winter Club Registration
  • Winter Clubs begin on January 13, 2020
• Athletics:
  • Info on Winter Athletics Season Schedule

Remembrance Day Prayers

• In observance of Remembrance Day, a special Prayers will take place in the JS gym on Monday, November 4th at 8:30 am.
• Students are to wear #1 Dress
• Teachers have been collecting donations for students to receive poppies to wear for the service

Pizza Day –

• Monday, November 4th is Pizza Day!

School Photo Retakes – Tuesday, November 5

• Photo Retake Day is scheduled for Tuesday November 5th from 10:30 – 11:50 am
• If you would like for your daughter to have her school photo re-taken, please contact Ms. Aoife King (aking@havergal.on.ca or 416-483-3519).
• Please have your daughter come to school in her #1 Dress for the re-takes.

Athletics

Congratulations to all of the teams who participated in their championships last Saturday. A particularly shout out goes to the U12 Soccer team who defended their title and brought home the plaque. We are very proud of the dedication we see from each athlete, and we would like to thank the coaches for their time, dedication and care to the girls and their athletic development.  

The girls had their Athletic Celebration today at lunch. The U11 & U12 B-ball team also took on the teachers in a fun and friendly game.

WINTER SEASON ATHLETICS
 ***NEW***  Here is the new winter season schedule. ***NEW***

Sign ups will begin on Monday November 4th at noon.
The full schedule will be available after the Athletic Director meeting on Nov. 19th.

Next week in the Junior School

Monday, November 1 (Day 8)

#1 Dress – Remembrance Day Prayers

• 8:30 – 8:50 am: JS Prayers, Remembrance Day
• 11:50 – 12:50 pm: Pizza Lunch
• 11:50 – 12:20 pm: Gr.1-6 Chess Lunch Club (learning hub)
• 12:10 – 12:50 pm: Gr.2 Math Discussion Group (Learning Hub)
• 3:30 – 4:15 pm: Gr. 4 Homework Club (room 4M)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.1-2 Drama Club (Rm 121, SK) 
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.3-4 Drama Club (Rm.213, 3F)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr. 4-6 Kids Lit Quiz (Art Room)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.3-6 Strings Ensemble (Music Room)

Tuesday, November 5 (Day 1)

• 8:00 – 8:55 am: Gr. 6 planning House Meetings
• 8:00 – 8:55 am: Gr.1-5 Outdoor Play
• 9:00 – 10:00 am: Gr.4 Coffee and Conversation
• 10:30 – 11:50 am: JS Photo Retakes (Learning Hub)
• 12:10 – 12:50 pm: Gr.3 & 4 Math Discussion Group (Learning Hub)
• 1:00 – 2:00 pm: JK/SK Coffee and Conversation
• 2:00 – 3:00 pm: Gr.1 Coffee and Conversation
• 3:30 – 4:30 pm: Gr. 2 Multi-sport Squad (JS Gym)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.1-3 Tinker Lab (Rm.117, 2B)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.1-3 Farm Fresh (Rm. 122, JK)

Wednesday, November 6 – Monday November 11

• Professional Development Day for Teachers
• November Break – No classes

Important Dates on the Horizon

Nov 4: Winter Athletics and Clubs online registration opens

Nov. 5: Photo Re-take Day

Nov 6-11: Midterm Break

Nov 11:  Remembrance Day – School Closed

Nov 12:  New to Havergal Parent Event

Nov 18-22: Mental Health Awareness Week

Nov 18: Winter Athletics Online Registration closes

Dear Junior School Parent:

The crisp fall air has arrived! We ask that you remind your daughter to ensure she comes dressed appropriately to enjoy outdoor play. Recess is an important part of each students’ day and is a significant part both their physical and mental health. Being cold can affect her ability to make the most of this vital part of the day!

I would also like to take this opportunity to announce that after 15 years of committed service, Karen Nielsen will be leaving Havergal on Tuesday, October 22, as she has taken the position of Executive Assistant to the Head of the Junior School at the York School.  In her time at Havergal, Karen’s professionalism, calm demeanour, and deep commitment to being a team player have made her an invaluable member of our community.

Please join me in wishing Karen all the very best in her new role!  We will miss her.

Yours sincerely,

Kate White

In this message, read about:

• Tuesday, October 22 is Open House
• Sign-up for Gator Care on Thursday, October 24: Parent-Teacher Interview Day
• Ella Minnow Book Fair
• School Photos are Available
• Athletics
• Frequently Used Links
• Next Week in the Junior School
• Important Dates on the Horizon

Tuesday, October 22 is Open House

The Junior School will be welcoming over 150 prospective parents at our Open House on Tuesday.

Students are asked to wear the #1 Dress!

Parent-Teacher Interviews/Early Dismissal

Thursday, October 24 is a half-day of school, to accommodate parent-teacher interviews.  Children will be dismissed as follows:

• JK – Grade 2: 11:50 – 12:00
• Grade  3 – 6: 12:00 – 12:15

There is NO SCHOOL on Friday, October 25.

ELLA MINNOW BOOKS IS COMING TO HAVERGAL!

The Learning Hub is excited to once again be hosting an Ella Minnow Book Fair! Ella Minnow specializes in books to delight children from birth to teen, and they will be bringing an excellent array of high-quality children’s literature to choose from, and just in time for the holidays!

The fair will be open for purchases during Parent/Teacher Conferences on: Thursday Oct. 24th from 1:30-7:30 pm, and Friday Oct. 25th from 8:00 am – 3:00 pm.  Students will have the opportunity to browse and create wish lists on Wednesday and Thursday. Please do not send your child to school with money to spend at the fair on those days as they will not be able to make purchases during school hours.

Ella Minnow will accept Visa, Master Card, debit, cash or cheque made payable to Ella Minnow Children’s Bookstore. Ella Minnow is also able to charge purchases to student accounts. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at erodd@havergal.on.ca or by phone at 416-483-3843, extension 7544.

School Photos are Available -Deadline for Orders is Monday, November 4

Athletics

Next week in the Junior School

Monday, October 21 (Day 7)

• 7:00 – 8:00 am U11 Basketball Practice
• 8:30 – 8:50 am: JS Prayers, Election Prayers
• 11:50 – 12:20 am: Gr.1-6 Chess Lunch Club (learning hub)
• 3:30 – 4:45pm: U12 Soccer Team practice (Lower Pitch)
• 3:30 – 4:15 pm: Gr. 4 Homework Club (room 4M)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.1-2 Drama Club (Rm 121, SK) 
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.3-4 Drama Club (Rm.213, 3F)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr. 4-6 Kids Lit Quiz (Art Room)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.3-6 Strings Ensemble (Music Room)

Tuesday, October 22 (Day 8)

** Open House – #1 Dress **

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

Wednesday, October 23 (Day 4)

• 7:00-8:00am: U12 Basketball practice (Js Gym)
• 7:00-8:00am: U11 Basketball Practice (Gym A/B)
• 8:15-9:30 am: Gr.5 & 6 Parent Coffee Morning, Learning Hub
• 8:30-8:50 am: Presentation of House Cheers Assembly, Gym (Gr.1-6)
• 11:00 pm: Class Dismissal of U12 Swim team 
  • 11:15pm Campus Departure of U12 Swim team from Upper School
  • 4:15pm Return of U12 swim team
• 11:00 pm: Class Dismissal of U12 Cross Country Team 
  • 11:15pm Campus Departure of U12 Cross Country Team from Junior School.
  • 4:15pm Return of U12 Cross Country  team
• 12:10-12:50: Gr.3 & 4 Math Discussion Group (Learning Hub)
• 3:30 – 4:15 pm: Gr.1-3 Primary Choir (Music Room)
• 3:30 – 4:15 pm: Gr. 6 Homework Club (Rm. 6L)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.4-6 Video Game Design  (Rm.214, 5G)
• 3:45 – 4:45 pm: Gr.4-6 Aspiring Architects (Rm.212, 6M)

Thursday, October 24 (Day 5) – HALF-DAY OF SCHOOL

• 7:00-8:00am: U12 Basketball practice (Js Gym)
• Dismissal Schdeule:
  • JK – Grade 2: 11:50 – 12:00
  • Grade  3 – 6: 12:00 – 12:15
• Parent-Teacher Interviews begin

Friday, October 25

• No School
• Parent-Teacher Interviews

Important Dates on the Horizon

Oct 21: Online sign-up for Parent-Teacher Interviews Closes (12:00 pm)

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

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

Oct 31: Halloween Special Schedule

Nov 4: Winter Athletics and Clubs online registration opens

Nov 6-11: Midterm Break