In our final edition of “The Weekly – Junior School,” I wanted to offer a sincere note of thanks to all of you for your partnership and support of Havergal this year. We have already accomplished so much together as a community, and we are excited to see all that 2025 has in store.
Our faculty and staff have been so blown away by the beautiful notes and gifts we have received throughout the week, including from the HCPA, sharing your appreciation with our amazing team. We are truly grateful for your generosity and kindness. Thank you.
I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday over the next few weeks, and a well deserved opportunity to rest, and spend time with family and friends. May the spirit of the season bring you all much joy, health and happiness. Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah to all those celebrating.
We will look forward to welcoming everyone back on Tuesday, January 7.
Warmly,
Kate
Today’s edition of “The Weekly” contains information on the following:
Please see the link to the Major Dates School Calendar for 2025-2026. We send the link to this calendar out at this time to allow employees and families to plan for the upcoming school year. Please be aware that it is subject to change and from time to time we need to make adjustments to it.
Family Independence Challenge!
As we enter a much-needed winter break, we wanted to share a fun challenge that we learned about, and adapted, through The Laurel School Center for Research on Girls.
Fostering independence in new areas takes time, making the more relaxed pace of winter break a great chance to undertake practical challenges to build your child’s resilience in daily life. You can download and use the BINGO cards linked below as a rough guide or mark off squares to celebrate your child’s growing independence. Feel free to pencil in your family’s own ideas for building independence and resilience in the free corner squares! You are also welcome to create your own, based on your daughter’s goals.
We look forward to welcoming students back to class on Tuesday, January 7
Pizza Lunch is on Tuesday, January 7
A reminder that students will have Pizza Lunch on the first day back at school!
Registering for Gator Care
Warmest thoughts and best wishes for a wonderful holiday season from the Gator Care team. Also, if you want to register your kids for Gator Care the link is shared below. Moreover, you can email and inform us if your child will no longer come to Gator Care regularly.
We wish you a joyful and restful holiday season filled with warmth, laughter, and cherished moments with loved ones. Thank you for being such an important part of our community—we look forward to an exciting year ahead!
KEY DATES ON THE HORIZON
Friday, December 20
No Classes – School Closed for December Break
Monday, January 6
No school for students
Faculty Professional Development
Tuesday, January 7
Classes resume
Tuesday, January 28
Holocaust Remembrance Prayers (8:25 am – 8:55 am in the JS Gym)
Friday, January 31
Lunar New Year Prayers (8:25 am – 8:55 am in the JS Gym)
It was a week that highlighted the hope, love, peace and joy of the holiday season! Thank you to everyone for joining us for our Grade 1 – 6 Christmas Concert at St. Paul’s Bloor Street yesterday. It was the perfect opportunity to come together as a community, and set the tone for the holiday season. I am particularly grateful for the combined efforts of our faculty and staff for ensuring that it went off without a hitch.
For those that were unable to attend, or for those who would love to see it again, we encourage you to watch the Grade 1 – 6 Christmas Concert on Havergal’s Youtube channel. I also encourage you to visit Havergal’s social media pages, where you can find photos from this very special event.
As we embrace this season of giving and gratitude, we want to express our heartfelt thanks for your continued generosity and support of our community. We are very grateful for the gifts provided by your donation to the HCPA fund. If you choose to share an additional token of appreciation, we kindly ask that it remains modest, under $100 in value, in line with our employee policies. Thank you for your understanding and generosity during this special time of year.
Sincerely,
Kate
Today’s edition of “The Weekly” contains information on the following:
Should you have any questions please reach out to your daughter’s homeroom or specialist teacher directly.
Students with Green Tags
Please note that students with Green Tags, indicating permission for independent dismissal, should leave the school at dismissal time or after their co-curricular activity has concluded. For safety reasons, students are not permitted to stay in the Junior School past 4:30 pm, as they are not supervised during this time. They are asked to sit quietly at reception until they are picked up.
Locker and Cubby Clean out Next Week
All students are asked to bring all personal belongings home for the holidays. This is so that our cleaners are able to do an extra deep cleaning during the break. Please send your child to school with extra bags to carry their things. Teachers will be on hand to support the students with this task.
Thursday, December 19 – Festive Dress Down Day
Please note that the WHOLE SCHOOL will be having a festive dress down day on Thursday, December 18. Students are invited to wear their favourite sweater, with pants, a skirt, or even PJ bottoms! Have fun with it!
REMINDERS
Last Chance to Look Through the Lost and Found!
All items in the Lost and Found have been put on display on tables by the main staircase.
Families and students are encouraged to check for lost belongings. We will make every effort to return labelled items to the students.
All unclaimed items will be donated to New Circles, or will go to the Used Uniform Sale, Thursday, December 19
Please be sure to label ALL of their child(ren)’s clothing, as this makes it much easier for items to be returned. As we head into the winter season, we encourage you to make sure that things like coats, snow pants, boots, hats, and mitts are clearly labelled as well.
Registration is open for JS Food Services for the REMAINDER of the YEAR
Please note that registration for JS Food Services is now open. Please register by logging into the Parent Portal, and accessing the form shown below.
Fall clubs have wrapped up for the term and winter clubs will start the week of January 13, 2025 so make sure to check your child’s calendar (instructions are below). The one exception is Ms. MacIntyre’s and Ms. Tulli’s Kids Lit club which has already started.
A tremendous THANK YOU to all the faculty and vendors who hosted clubs over the past term and I’m grateful for the variety and engagement you brought to our students.
The HCPA Marketplace Online Shop is open year-round with seasonal updates. It is not too late to order your HC Swag for the holidays. Deadline for pre-holiday orders is Sunday 15th of December. Collection at HC by December 19th!
YOUR CHILD’S PERSONALIZED CALENDAR
Usethis linkto see a personalised summary of your child’s activities next week, on the Parent Portal.
KEY DATES ON THE HORIZON
Tuesday, December 17
Hanukkah Prayers (8:25 am – 8:55 am in the JS Gym)
Wednesday, December 18
First Full Report Card Available for Viewing on the Parent Portal at 4:00 pm
Thursday, December 19
Festive Dress Down Day
Last day of Classes
Friday, December 20
No Classes – School Closed for December Break
Monday, January 6
No school for students
Faculty Professional Development
Tuesday, January 7
Classes resume
Tuesday, January 28
Holocaust Remembrance Prayers (8:25 am – 8:55 am in the JS Gym)
Friday, January 31
Lunar New Year Prayers (8:25 am – 8:55 am in the JS Gym)
This morning in Prayers students learned all about Advent, and the four weeks leading up to Christmas. We lit the Advent wreath, with the candles symbolizing Hope, Peace & Preparation, Joy and Love. This was followed by the spectacular Kindergarten Christmas Concert, which set the perfect tone for the holiday season. We are also looking forward to next week, when we gather at St. Paul’s Bloor Street for our Grade 1 – 6 Christmas Concert.
I hope that people can enjoy some time outside this weekend, enjoying the first snowfall! The kids have been having an absolutely wonderful time at recess playing and enjoying the fun that comes with the winter season.
Kate
Today’s edition of “The Weekly” contains information on the following:
Canadian Singer-Songwriter Craig Cardiff Visits the Junior School
When: Tuesday, December 17th
Time: 2:30pm-3:00pm
Where: JS Gym
The Junior School is delighted to welcome back Juno nominated Canadian singer-songwriter Craig Cardiff for a full school concert on Tuesday, December 17th at 2:30pm in the JS Gym. Craig will perform a concert for all Junior School students. Parents are welcome to join us.
Craig has released sixteen albums, both live and studio-based since 1997. He has toured North America and Europe. In 2012, Cardiff was nominated for a Juno Award for Roots and Traditional Album of the Year: Solo and for a Canadian Folk Music Award as Contemporary Singer of the Year. He has 100+ million streams and is 100% fan powered. “Cardiff makes it a point to keep the relationship with his fans personal, inviting and accepting any opportunity to make his audience as much a part of the performance as he is. Armed with an extensive catalogue of songs, his Book of Truths, sharp wit and soft voice. Over the years, he has played with and opened for artists such as Glen Phillips, Lucy Kaplansky, Dan Bern, Natalia Zukerman, Andy Stochansky, Sarah Harmer, Kathleen Edwards, Blue Rodeo, Gordon Downie (Tragically Hip), Hawksley Workman, Sarah Slean, Skydiggers, 54-40 and more.”
Returning Finished Library Books; Taking Out New Books for the Holidays!
With the fall term coming to an end, Ms. Rodd asks that families take stock of their library books. While books are not due until the end of the year, now is a great time to take stock and return any books that students have finished using.
A reminder that students may have up to 15 books checked out at a time (10 for kindergarten students). Thank you!
Lost and Found Clean Out: Monday, December 9 – Thursday, December 19
All items in the Lost and Found have been put on display on tables by the main staircase.
Families and students are encouraged to check for lost belongings. We will make every effort to return labelled items to the students.
All unclaimed items will be donated to New Circles, or will go to the Used Uniform Sale, Thursday, December 19
Please be sure to label ALL of their child(ren)’s clothing, as this makes it much easier for items to be returned. As we head into the winter season, we encourage you to make sure that things like coats, snow pants, boots, hats, and mitts are clearly labelled as well.
REMINDERS
Confirming or Declining Attendance at the Christmas Concert – ACTION REQUIRED
The deadline for confirming or declining your child’s attendance at the Grade 1 – 6 Christmas Concert has now passed. Students not attending the concert be picked up from school at 11am
Need To Know Information: Grade 1 – 6 Christmas Concert
Please note the following:
Date:
Thursday, December 12
Time:
3:00 pm – 4:00 pm (doors open at 2:30 pm)
Location:
227 St. Paul’s Bloor Street
Parking:
Families are invited to visit Spot Angels for suggestions on nearby free and paid parking & garages near the church.
Tickets:
Tickets are not required, all are welcome to attend. This includes grandparents and caregivers.
Transportation to the Church
Students in Grades 1 – 6 will travel to St. Paul’s, via chartered bus, (after lunch) for a rehearsal and then perform for their families at 3:00pm.
There is no transportation back to the school, nor Gator Care available for students in Grades 1 – 6 after the concert.
Lunch and Snacks:
We have arranged to have an early lunch on this day, so that we can start to depart Havergal at 11:45 am.
Students who bring their own lunch from home are asked to leave their lunch bag at school overnight. Families can also consider using disposable lunch containers made from recycled materials if they do not wish to leave a lunch bag overnight.
All students from grades 1-6 will be provided an afternoon snack and drink prior to the performance at St. Paul’s. All allergies have been taken into consideration.
What to wear:
Number 1 Concert Dress is expected for the full school day on December 12. This consists of:
White long-sleeve dress shirt
Tie
Tunic (JK-Grade 4) and Kilt (grades 5 and 6)
Tights, not socks (if you do not have tights, please arrange with your family to order some from the Green and Gold shop)
Black shoes
Hair back from face with minimal hair accessories that are the same colour as your hair or the HC official hair accessories
Dismissal from the Church
Students will be dismissed to their families after the concert is concluded. Primary students will be dismissed from a class pew inside the church. Pews will be designated to each Primary class (Ex. 2A, 3B etc).
Junior students (Grades 4, 5 and 6) will be dismissed from Cody Hall. Families can exit the church from the interior doors on the eastern side of the church and proceed across the atrium to Cody Hall. Parents must pick their daughter up from their class pew/Cody Hall and sign them out with the homeroom teacher.
If you have more than one student, we ask that you pick-up your youngest child in the church before collecting older students from Cody Hall. Instructions will also be given at the conclusion of the concert.
Please note that students will need to come to school in their black shoes on Thursday, December 12, as their winter boots will have been left at school.
Gator Care for JK/SK Students from 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm on Thursday, December 12
Please note that Gator Care is available for JK/SK students from 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm on Thursday, December 12, while students in Grades 1 – 6 are at the Christmas Concert at St. Paul’s Church
Gator Care remains available from 7:30 am – 8:00 am on this day, for ALL Students.
Registration is open for JS Food Services for the REMAINDER of the YEAR
Please note that registration for JS Food Services is now open. Please register by logging into the Parent Portal, and accessing the form shown below.
CO-CURRICULARS
Athletics
Please check the JS Athletics Schedule for specific details and future game times that may not be on your regular practice schedule.
Good Luck to the U12 & U11 Volleyball Teams on their first games of the season.
Clubs
Fall clubs have wrapped up for the term and winter clubs will start the week of January 13, 2025 so make sure to check your child’s calendar (instructions are below). The one exception is Ms. MacIntyre’s and Ms. Tulli’s Kids Lit club which has already started.
A tremendous THANK YOU to all the faculty and vendors who hosted clubs over the past term and I’m grateful for the variety and engagement you brought to our students.
Donations for HCPA Staff Appreciation are due today! Send via e-transfer to hcpatreasurer@gmail.com with your daughter’s name and grade/cohort in the message.
Parent Socials
Please save the date for the following evening parent socials:
Today marked our third “Thrive Day” in the Junior School. Students were welcomed to Prayers with three of our Grade 4 students singing “All Too Well” by Taylor Swift, accompanied by Mr. McLean and Ms. Barrett. It set a lovely tone as we learned more about some of the things that students in our community do to thrive. We learned about the “Wellbeing Kids’ Club,” which was started by several of our Grade 3 students. The goal of the club is to create an inclusive, safe, happy space where we welcome all SK students to learn about wellbeing. They meet with the SKs once a month to teach them different techniques and tools to use to manage their emotions. This group also shared just some of the things they do to help them thrive, including spending time in nature, taking deep breaths, drawing, and getting hugs from their family. We also heard from a new to Havergal student in Grade 5, who shared that joining the basketball team was one of the ways that she started to feel more connected to our community.
Both the “Positivity Club” (Grades 1 – 3) and the “Beading Club” (Grades 4 – 6) invited students to spend lunch recess making Affirmation or other Bracelets, or some mindful colouring. It was truly incredible to see so many students turn up and participate. The Positivity Club even surprised teachers with kind and thoughtful notes that were delivered to classrooms throughout the day.
I encourage you to ask your children this weekend just some of the ways that they are learning to thrive!
Sincerely,
Kate
Today’s edition of “The Weekly” contains information on the following:
Families are invited to visit Spot Angels for suggestions on nearby free and paid parking & garages near the church.
Tickets:
Tickets are not required, all are welcome to attend. This includes grandparents and caregivers.
Transportation to the Church
Students in Grades 1 – 6 will travel to St. Paul’s, via chartered bus, (after lunch) for a rehearsal and then perform for their families at 3:00pm.
There is no transportation back to the school, nor Gator Care available for students in Grades 1 – 6 after the concert.
Lunch and Snacks:
We have arranged to have an early lunch on this day, so that we can start to depart Havergal at 11:45 am.
Students who bring their own lunch from home are asked to leave their lunch bag at school overnight. Families can also consider using disposable lunch containers made from recycled materials if they do not wish to leave a lunch bag overnight.
All students from grades 1-6 will be provided an afternoon snack and drink prior to the performance at St. Paul’s. All allergies have been taken into consideration.
What to wear:
Number 1 Concert Dress is expected for the full school day on December 12. This consists of:
White long-sleeve dress shirt
Tie
Tunic (JK-Grade 4) and Kilt (grades 5 and 6)
Tights, not socks (if you do not have tights, please arrange with your family to order some from the Green and Gold shop)
Black shoes
Hair back from face with minimal hair accessories that are the same colour as your hair or the HC official hair accessories
Dismissal from the Church
Students will be dismissed to their families after the concert is concluded. Primary students will be dismissed from a class pew inside the church. Pews will be designated to each Primary class (Ex. 2A, 3B etc).
Junior students (Grades 4, 5 and 6) will be dismissed from Cody Hall. Families can exit the church from the interior doors on the eastern side of the church and proceed across the atrium to Cody Hall. Parents must pick their daughter up from their class pew/Cody Hall and sign them out with the homeroom teacher.
If you have more than one student, we ask that you pick-up your youngest child in the church before collecting older students from Cody Hall. Instructions will also be given at the conclusion of the concert.
Please note that students will need to come to school in their black shoes on Thursday, December 12, as their winter boots will have been left at school.
Gator Care for JK/SK Students from 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm on Thursday, December 12
Please note that Gator Care is available for JK/SK students from 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm on Thursday, December 12, while students in Grades 1 – 6 are at the Christmas Concert at St. Paul’s Church
Gator Care remains available from 7:30 am – 8:00 am on this day, for ALL Students.
Advent and Christmas Prayers
An amazing response to the call out for participants for both of these prayers has meant that 18 students will be participating in the Advent prayers and 31 students participating in the Christmas prayers! Rev. Ruch will be emailing all the families involved, along with their teachers with all th information necessary. Due to the large numbers for the Christmas Prayers, we will be trying something a little different this year, in the form of a “scratch nativity”, which is an unpolished play where we go through the Christmas story together. More information to follow as it draws near.
What is New in Gator Care?
Should your daughter attend Gator Care on a regular basis, we encourage you to read the Gator Care Monthly Blast. This will provide you with a high-level overview of what is happening, and some quick reminders.
REMINDERS
Late Arrivals and Early Dismissals
A reminder that students are to arrive at school between 8:00 am and 8:20 am. On days when we have Prayers please note that it begins at 8:25 am. Attendance is taken between 8:20 am and 8:25 am on Prayers days, and between 8:20 am and 8:30 am on non-Prayers days.
It is essential that a student’s attendance and arrival/dismissal schedule is kept up-to-date by parents in the Veracross Student Logistics Request tool at all times. Calling the Junior School Office to update a child’s attendance (late arrivals/early departures/absences) should only be done in the case of an emergency.
To learn more about how to report attendance, please refer to ourReporting Attendance Documentand use the linkhereto report your child’s absence.
New Circles Holiday Angel Program – Please Send in Gift Cards by Monday, December 2
A huge thank you to everyone for their generous donations in support of the families we are partnered with at New Circles. Please note that all gift cards should be brought to school by Monday, December 2, which is just after this weekend.
Grades
Gift Card Requests
JK, SK, Grade 1
Walmart or No Frills
Grade 2 & 4A
Walmart
Grade 3 & 4B
Walmart
Grade 5
Walmart, No Frills, Food Basics or Costco
Grade 6
Walmart, No Frills or Costco
Tax Receipts
Should you require a tax receipt:
Print out and complete the Donor Tax Receipt Form 2024 and make sure to add your HAP # (This is the family you are donating to. It is located on the family information page.)
Attach the gift card, activation receipt and tax form together and send them into school
Please note that tax receipts can only be issued by New Circles for donations above $25 that have all the necessary components attached.
Monday, December 2 – Pizza Lunch
Students will enjoy the last pizza lunch of the term on Monday. Thank you to all of our parent volunteers and the Chartwells’ Team, who have helped this monthly treat to be so seamless.
Should your daughter not participate in Pizza Lunch, please remember to pack her a lunch on this day.
CO-CURRICULARS
Athletics
Please check the JS Athletics Schedule for specific details and future game times that may not be on your regular practice schedule.
Good Luck to the U12 & U11 Volleyball Teams on their first games of the season.
Clubs
Fall clubs have wrapped up for the term and winter clubs will start the week of January 13, 2025 so make sure to check your child’s calendar (instructions are below). The one exception is Ms. MacIntyre’s and Ms. Tulli’s Kids Lit club which has already started.
A tremendous THANK YOU to all the faculty and vendors who hosted clubs over the past term and I’m grateful for the variety and engagement you brought to our students.
Thank you to everyone who supported Ivy Market! We hope you enjoyed the shopping, treats and chance to mingle and reconnect with others. Click here to view photos from the event.
Staff Appreciation
Donations for HCPA Staff Appreciation are due by Friday, December 6. Send via e-transfer to hcpatreasurer@gmail.com with your daughter’s name and grade/cohort in the message.
HCPA Marketplace
The HCPA Marketplace Online Shop is open year-round with seasonal updates. Perfect for last-minute gifts or HC unique items!
Parent Socials
Please save the date for the following evening parent socials:
“We all have hearts. We all want to feel loved and valued. And we all are human.”
This morning, Ms. Watt, along with three Grade 6 students challenged us to think about not just what it means to be kind, but to actually act with kindness. They asked us to reflect on times when they may have shown unkind behaviours, asking questions like: “Have you excluded a friend at lunch?” “Have you spoken meanly about someone behind their back?” “Have you judged someone, without knowing them?” They also asked if any of these things had ever been done to them, and the effect it had on them. Conversely, the students asked us to provide examples of when they had acted kindly towards someone, or when someone had been kind to them. We talked about how sometimes we can easily forgive and forget, while at other times the hurt we feel can be harder to move on from, and these unkind behaviours can leave a mark on our hearts, which can last for a long time. This is a message that we touch upon regularly in Prayers, in class, and on the playground, and is important to touch upon regularly as a community that is centered in courage, compassion, inquiry, and integrity.
In addition to saying thank you to Ms. Watt and our Grade 6 presenters, thank you as well to Irene (Gr. 4) who set the tone for today’s message by playing piano for walk-in, and to Mme. Rizzo and Eileen (Gr. 4) who sang “You Lift Me Up” for walk-out.
Sincerely,
Kate
Today’s edition of “The Weekly” contains information on the following:
Full School House Dress Down Day – Wednesday, November 27
Please note that on Wednesday, November 27th, we will be having a full school House Dress-Down Day. We invite both teachers and students to show their house spirit by dressing in their house colours.
Thank you to our Grade 6 students who will be leading the house meetings on this day! They have carefully planned a number of fun and engaging activities, that involve a little friendly competition between houses!
Gator Care Important Update – Grade 1 & 2 Belongings
Starting Monday, November 25th, all Grade 1 and Grade 2 students attending Gator Care will be asked to store their backpacks and personal belongings in their cubbies. When picking up your child, please sign them out and then proceed to their cubby to collect their belongings.
Students in JK/SK and Grades 3-6 will continue to keep their bags and coats in the Gator Care room.
This adjustment is being made to enhance safety and efficiency in our afterschool programming. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we implement this change.
Christmas Prayers – Call for Participation (Tuesday, December 10)
If your daughter would like to be involved in delivering the message at Christmas Prayers on Tuesday, December 10, please remind her to meet with Rev. Ruch on Tuesday, November 26 at morning recess to express her interest. Dates for script writing and rehearsals will be shared next week.
Hanukkah Prayers – Call for Participation (Tuesday, December 17)
If your daughter would like to be involved in delivering the message at Hanukkah Prayers on Tuesday, December 17, please remind her to meet with Rev. Ruch on Tuesday, November 26 at morning recess to express her interest. Dates for script writing and rehearsals will be shared next week.
REMINDERS
New Circles Holiday Angel Program (Nov 19 – Dec 2)
This November, Havergal College is participating in the New Circles Holiday Angels Program, a gift-giving program that serves individuals and families, many of whom are newcomers to Canada.
New Circles is a not-for-profit organization that works to promote equity and dignity for families by providing basic necessities, employment training and settlement support. As part of their leadership learning, Grade 5 students are taking a leading role in the coordination and implementation of this worthy project.
This year we are sponsoring five families through the Holiday Angels Program. This week, students were introduced to the family they will be supporting. They learned about the different members in the family, a little bit about what brought them to Canada, and how we can help them meet some of their basic needs. The donation window is now open and will continue until Monday, December 2nd.
Please see the family profiles below. Requests for specific gift cards are included to ensure your donations have the greatest impact by enabling the families to purchase what they most need from stores they can easily access. To ensure that a gift card is valid, we ask that the activation receipt be attached to every gift card. New Circles and the Holiday Angel families are thankful for any donations that they receive.
Please see below for gift card requests and specific family information. To learn more about the family you are supporting, please visit your child’s homeroom page.
Grades
Gift Card Requests
JK, SK, Grade 1
Walmart or No Frills
Grade 2 & 4A
Walmart
Grade 3 & 4B
Walmart
Grade 5
Walmart, No Frills, Food Basics or Costco
Grade 6
Walmart, No Frills or Costco
Tax Receipts
Should you require a tax receipt:
Print out and complete the Donor Tax Receipt Form 2024 and make sure to add your HAP # (This is the family you are donating to. It is located on the family information page.)
Attach the gift card, activation receipt and tax form together and send them into school
Please note that tax receipts can only be issued by New Circles for donations above $25 that have all the necessary components attached.
Ella Minnow Books is Coming to Havergal – Monday, November 25 to Thursday, November 28!
The Junior School Library 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!
When is the book fair?
The Book Fair will run from Monday, November 25th to Thursday, November 28th.
Why do we host a book fair when we can just buy books online and at Indigo?
Having a book fair is an opportunity for students to practice taking responsibility for their choices; managing money, and managing expectations.
Our library also directly benefits from a Book Fair, as 20% of all sales goes toward new books for the library.
How can I support my child?
Students will have the opportunity to browse and create wish lists on Monday November 25th and Tuesday November 26th. The wish list is a tool for your daughter’s decision-making process, so please have a conversation with her about her choices. Please send the wishlist back to school with her. Students will have time to shop with her class on Thursday or Friday.
We ask that parents do not purchase books from their daughter’s wish lists until after she has had a chance to do so herself, with her class.
If your daughter’s wish list is very long, or if you would like to make purchases for the holidays or as a surprise, the book fair will be open from 8-5 on Wednesday and 8-4 on Thursday for shopping.
Ella Minnow are quick to order and supply books that are sold out at the fair and will bring copies of any books that sell out to the school.
Payment Information
Ella Minnow accepts Visa, Master Card, debit, cash, and is able to charge purchases to student accounts with permission granted (via the Wish List).
Questions?
Please do not hesitate to contact Ms. Rodd at erodd@havergal.on.ca or by phone at 416-483-3843, extension 7544.
CO-CURRICULARS
Athletics
Please check the JS Athletics Schedule for specific details and future game times that may not be on your regular practice schedule.
Clubs
Fall clubs are wrapping up for the term so please make sure to check your child’s personalized calendar (details on how can be found below).
Kids Lit Quiz Club, led by Ms. McIntyre starts on Thursday, November 21, 2024; All other clubs start the week of January 13, 2025.
Thank you so much for participating in our first set of JS Parent-Teacher Conferences for the year!
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.
We sincerely value your engagement with your daughter’s progress, and want to reiterate that should you ever have questions or concerns, we invite you to connect us. Be assured that we will do the same.
Sincerely,
Kate
Today’s edition of “The Weekly” contains information on the following:
New Circles Holiday Angel Program (Nov 19 – Dec 2)
Next week we will launch our Holiday Angel Drive, in collaboration with New Circles, one of Havergal’s Community Partners. New Circles Community Services is a not-for-profit, grass-roots agency that builds strong and caring communities by providing clothing and skills training programs to equity-deserving individuals.
The Holiday Angel Program matches generous donors with client families, many of whom face significant challenges and are newcomers to Canada, to help meet urgent needs and make holiday wishes come true.
Next Tuesday, November 19th, our Grade 5 students will be introducing the Holiday Angel Program to KG – Grade 6 students in Prayers. On Wednesday, November 20th, during community time, all Junior School students will have the opportunity to learn more about this program, as well as better understand the needs of the family they will be supporting. Next week, we will be sending more information about the families and all you need to know about how to contribute.
Thank you in advance for your support!
Ella Minnow Books is Coming to Havergal – Monday, November 25 to Thursday, November 28!
The Junior School Library 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!
When is the book fair?
The Book Fair will run from Monday, November 25th to Thursday, November 28th.
Why do we host a book fair when we can just buy books online and at Indigo?
Having a book fair is an opportunity for students to practice taking responsibility for their choices; managing money, and managing expectations.
Our library also directly benefits from a Book Fair, as 20% of all sales goes toward new books for the library.
How can I support my child?
Students will have the opportunity to browse and create wish lists on Monday November 25th and Tuesday November 26th. The wish list is a tool for your daughter’s decision-making process, so please have a conversation with her about her choices. Please send the wishlist back to school with her. Students will have time to shop with her class on Thursday or Friday.
We ask that parents do not purchase books from their daughter’s wish lists until after she has had a chance to do so herself, with her class.
If your daughter’s wish list is very long, or if you would like to make purchases for the holidays or as a surprise, the book fair will be open from 8-5 on Wednesday and 8-4 on Thursday for shopping.
Ella Minnow are quick to order and supply and books that sold out at the fair and will bring copies of any books that sell out to the school.
Payment Information
Ella Minnow accepts Visa, Master Card, debit, cash, and is able to charge purchases to student accounts with permission granted (via the Wish List).
Questions?
Please do not hesitate to contact Ms. Rodd at erodd@havergal.on.ca or by phone at 416-483-3843, extension 7544.
CO-CURRICULARS
Registration for Winter Co-curriculars is now closed.
The catalogue of Athletics and Clubs can be found here: JS Winter Co-curriculars and registration closes at 4pm on Monday, November 18, 2024.
Athletics
It is an action-packed week with the start-up to Athletics.
Fall clubs are wrapping up for the term so make sure to check your child’s calendar.
Kids Lit Quiz Club, led by Ms. McIntyre starts on Thursday, November 21, 2024; All other clubs start the week of January 13, 2025.
NOTES FROM THE HCPA
Ivy Market Details
Ivy Market is coming on Thursday, November 21! Please click HERE to learn more and pre-order custom Havergal gifts from a curated list of vendors. And please click HERE to volunteer for Ivy Market.
The HCPA Holiday Marketplace is now online on our new shopify website! Click HERE to get your holiday shopping done early. (password hcpa2024)
Thank you to our teachers for preparing the first set of report cards for the 2024-2025 school year. We hope they offered you a high level summary of how your daughter is progressing with her learning skills. We are excited by the conversations that will take place next week during Parent-Teacher Conferences, where you will have the chance to connect more deeply to discuss your daughters strengths and key next steps. We are grateful for your partnership.
We hope that the November Mid-term Break allows for some time to rest and recharge.
Sincerely,
Kate
Today’s edition of “The Weekly” contains information on the following:
Students, faculty and staff are all invited to come to school not in uniform.
Save The Date: Student Led Conferences – Friday, April 11
Mark your calendars! As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting students to be “future ready” we are bringing Student-Led Conferences to the Junior School. The purpose of these student-driven meetings is to provide an opportunity for students to engage in conversation about their learning with their families. They also act to promote reflection, and focus on the process of learning, rather than on a final product.
We will be sharing more about what to expect at these meetings in the new year, but we wanted to make sure people noted the time in your calendars, for your planning purposes.
Halloween Candy
Now that Halloween is behind us, we ask that you the students leave their sweet treats at home! Thank you for your support.
Cleaning Out the Lost and Found: November 12 -15
We are Lost & Found items will be on display on the tables by the STEM lab. Parents and students are encouraged to check for lost belongings. We will make every effort to return labelled items to the students.
All unclaimed items will be donated to New Circles, or will go to the Used Uniform Sale, on Monday November 18.
Please be sure to label ALL of their child(ren)’s clothing, as this makes it much easier for items to be returned. As we head into the winter season, we encourage you to make sure that things like coats, snow pants, boots, hats, and mitts are clearly labelled as well.
What is New in Gator Care?
Should your daughter attend Gator Care on a regular basis, we encourage you to read the Gator Care Monthly Blast. This will provide you with a high-level overview of what is happening, and quick reminders.
Registration for Gator Care on Thursday, November 14 (Parent-Teacher Conferences)
Please note that registration for Gator Care is required for November 14, for Parent Teacher Conferences, so that we can ensure proper staffing ratios. This must be completed by Monday, November 11. Regular charges apply, starting at the end of your child’s dismissal time.
Once you have logged in successfully, click on Junior School;
You will see that there is a link to “After School Gator Care” under the REGISTRATIONS’ section;
Clink on it, and you will be able to register. A screen shot of what to look for is below for your reference.
Winter Pathway Closures – Starting on November 12
Please note that the pathway behind the Art Room, the STEM lab and JS Dining Hall is closed during the months, due to safety reasons.
Kindergarten families are asked to either drop their daughter off at the front door in the morning, or to use the pathway that is located at the front of the Junior School for both drop-off and pick-up.
CO-CURRICULARS
Registration for Winter Co-curriculars is now open and closes at 8pm on Tuesday, November 12, 2024
On Tuesday, we welcomed Dr. Belle Liang and Mr. Tim Klein from Boston College, who shared insights from their book, How To Navigate Life. They explored the distinction between performance and passion mindsets and encouraged our students to pursue, instead, a purpose mindset. Their advice of “meet interesting people, do interesting things, and be interested” resonated with many, as did their research about its importance in overall wellbeing and academic success. For those who want to delve deeper, we invite you to review the slides from their Parent Presentation.
It was so much fun to have all of our students, faculty and staff dress up for Halloween yesterday! We know how much they look forward to this special day, and were thrilled to be able to participate in a variety of activities to celebrate together. A special note of thanks to the students in Grade 12 who came to support our students with our annual door decorating contest! The competition was close once again. Congratulations to our JK and 5B who were the lucky winners, along with 3A and 6B, who were the runner ups. Finally, a shout out to our Boarding Students and the Boarding Team for hosting our Junior and Senior Kindergarten students for trick or treating in their home! We love any opportunity that allows us to build relationships between students across the bridge.
Wishing everyone a restful weekend, after a fulsome week!
Sincerely,
Kate
Today’s edition of “The Weekly” contains information on the following:
Registration for Gator Care on Thursday, November 14 (Parent-Teacher Conferences)
Please note that registration for Gator Care is required for November 14, for Parent Teacher Conferences, so that we can ensure proper staffing ratios. This must be completed by Monday, November 11. Regular charges apply, starting at the end of your child’s dismissal time.
Once you have logged in successfully, click on Junior School;
You will see that there is a link to “After School Gator Care” under the REGISTRATIONS’ section;
Clink on it, and you will be able to register. A screen shot of what to look for is below for your reference.
REMINDERS
Pizza Lunch is on Monday
Students are excited for Pizza lunch, that will take place on Monday. Please note that there is no hot lunch on this day. Students who do not participate in in Pizza lunch are asked to bring their own lunches from home.
Learning Skills Report Cards – Available for viewing on Tuesday, November 5 (Grades 1 – 6)
Your daughter’s Learning Skills Report Card is available through a link on your Parent Portal on Wednesday, November 5 at 4 pm.
If you have any questions please reach out to your daughter’s homeroom teacher.
Junior School Parent-Teacher Conferences – Registration Opens at 8:00 pm on Monday, November 4
The first Junior School Parent/Teacher Conferences of the school year will take place virtually via Zoom. These important conversations provide an opportunity to discuss your child’s progress, to see the areas in which she is thriving, and to discuss targeted plans for continued growth. Moreover, they allow us to further strengthen the relationship between home and school. Everyone is highly encouraged to book a time to meet with their child’s homeroom teacher. Meetings with specialist teachers should be booked on an “as needed” basis, due to scheduling. Please note that our teachers will always reach out to you should they have any questions or concerns.
Havergal’s online booking system – PickAtime
The online conference booking system used by Havergal College is called PickAtime.
Registration
Opens: Monday, November 4th at 8:00 pm
Closes: Tuesday, November 12th at 8:00 pm
Once you have finished booking your appointments; the Zoom link will appear. If you have any last minute changes, please contact Sarah Robertson (srobertson@havergal.on.ca)
Please note:
CLICK HEREto sign into your pickAtime account with your password.
If you do not have a pickAtime account, please create a pickAtime link in advance of the online opening.
Please be sure to select the “Junior School” option JS PTC November 2024 in the drop down menu (not the “Upper School” or “Green and Gold”).
Need any Further Help?
For assistance with pickAtime, please contact the IT Service Desk.
There was a buzz in the air at the Junior School this week, as we welcomed over 150 prospective families at our Open House. Our Grade 6s played a pivotal role, acting as tour guides. It was impressive to see their confidence, ability to thoughtfully engage with our visitors, and the joy and pride they feel for Havergal. The next day, with support from Upper School students, they led our very first house meetings of the year, teaching their houses this year’s cheers.
This morning, we also had the opportunity to celebrate the Festival of Diwali in Prayers. Diwali comes from the Sanskrit word deepavali, meaning “row of lights,” and marks the triumph of light over darkness, and of good over evil. It is one of the major festivals celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddists, and other religions based in India. Even though the meaning of the celebration may be different, the enthusiasm, and joy it brings to people’s lives is what binds everyone together.
Thank you to our students who so proudly shared their many traditions associated with Diwali, and for performing an incredible dance routine, which they have been practicing for several weeks. It was a joyous way to end our week together.
Sincerely,
Kate
Today’s edition of “The Weekly” contains information on the following:
Halloween is next week and the JS community is very excited!! As the day approaches, we would like to share some details with you.
Costumes and Accessories:
Students are welcome to come to school in their costumes!
They are to leave any accessories (masks, broom sticks, etc…) for their costume in their lockers or cubbies, until it is time for the JS Halloween Parade in the afternoon.
What NOT to bring:
Students are not permitted to bring in any gifts or candy to share with their classmates. Our JS Prefects and their Council will be bringing in treats to hand out at the Junior School
Activities:
We will be having an afternoon full of Halloween themed activities! Please note that the activities are intended for students only. Families are welcome to come to the Halloween Assembly, and are invited to meet us all in the Gym at 2:35 pm, at the conclusion of the Parade.
11:50 am – 12:20 pm: Kindergarten
KG students trick or treat in the boarding school (student only event)
12:35 pm – 2:30 pm: Grades 1-6
Halloween Activities Run by the Halloween Committee (Crafts, Halloween Read Alouds, Spooky movies, Pumpkin hunt, Halloween Just Dance, Kahoot games and more!)
2:30 pm – 3:00 pm: JK – Grade 6
JK- Grade 6 Halloween Parade Through the School. The parade ends with all students entering the gym at 2:40 pm.
“Halloween Assembly” in the Junior School Gym, all parents are welcome to join us!
3:05 pm – 3:35 pm:
Regular dismissal Procedures
It is IMPERATIVE that families only park in designated parking spaces, or on Rosewell Ave., and NOT ALONG THE DRIVEWAY, as this will impact our dismissal process.
Co-Curriculars
All Co-curriculars will still run as per usual on Tuesday, October 31st.
Learning Skills Report Cards – Available for viewing on Tuesday, November 5 (Grades 1 – 6)
Your daughter’s Learning Skills Report Card is available through a link on your Parent Portal on Wednesday, November 5 at 4 pm.
If you have any questions please reach out to your daughter’s homeroom or specialist teacher.
Junior School Parent-Teacher Conferences: REGISTRATION
The first Junior School Parent/Teacher Conferences of the school year will take place virtually via Zoom on:
Thursday, November 14 from 3:00 pm – 8:00 pm
There will be an early dismissal on this day
JK-Grade 3: 1:30-1:45 pm
Gr.4-6: 1:45-2:00 pm
Gator Care will run from 1:30 pm – 6:00 pm; Billing begins at 2:00 pm; Parents are asked to register for Gator Care by Monday, November 11th, so that we can ensure we have the appropriate staffing
Please note that all clubs have been cancelled on this day. This includes Private Music Lessons.
Friday, November 15 from 8:00am – 3:00pm
Parent/Teacher Conferences continue over Zoom from 8:00 am – 3:00 pm.
Please note there are NO CLASSES, no Co-Curriculars, or Gator Care.
Registration on PickATime:
Havergal uses an online booking system called PickATime.
Opens: Monday, November 4th at 10 am
Closes: Tuesday, November 12th at 8 pm.
Once you have finished booking your appointments; the Zoom link will appear. If you have any last minute changes, please contact Sarah Robertson (srobertson@havergal.on.ca)
Please note:
CLICK HEREto sign into your pickAtime account with your password.
If you do not have a pickAtime account, pleasecreate a pickAtime linkin advance of the online opening.
Please be sure to select the “Junior School” option JS PTC November 2024 in the drop down menu (not the “Upper School” or “Green and Gold”).
Need any Further Help?
For assistance with pickAtime, please contact the IT Service Desk.
Telephone: (416) 483-3843 ext. 6663 and they will assist you.
Hours of operation are from Monday – Friday 8 am to 4 pm.
REMINDERS
Half-Day on Tuesday, October 29 – Early Dismissal Times
We are thrilled that our teachers will have the opportunity to engage in professional development with Dr. Belle Liang & Tim Klein on Tuesday, October 29, prior to their presentation with our families.
Please note the following:
Students will remain at school for lunch and lunch recess.
12:30 pm – 1:00 pm Staggered dismissal
Kindergarten to Grade 3
12:30 pm – 12:45 pm
Grade 4 – Grade 6
12:45 pm – 1:00 pm
Gator Care
Is available, at the regular fee, from 12:30 pm – 6:00 pm; Billing begins at 1:00pm
Registration is mandatory, so that we are able to plan accordingly;
To register, please complete THIS FORM, by Friday, October 25, 5pm.
CO-CURRICULARS
Registration for Winter Co-curriculars opens on Monday, November 4th at 10 am and the catalogue of Athletics and Clubs can be found here: JS Winter Co-curriculars.
Athletics
Congratulations to the teams on their final tournament week.
The Swim Team won the Bishops cup and both our U12 Basketball and U12 Soccer Teams won the final championship day.
Good Luck to the Cross Country team in their finals on Monday.
Clubs continue as scheduled, except on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, due to early dismissal.
NOTES FROM THE HCPA
Ivy Market Reminder
The Ivy Market is just around the corner on November 21st from 10am-5pm, where a number of carefully curated vendors will showcase HC specific designs. Parents can also pre-order cookie dough and enjoy a coffee corner to connect with other parents and alumni. The HCPA is excited for this event and hope to see you all there! Please click here for more details.
Today was a wonderful way to end our week! We started with Prayers this morning by celebrating the Jewish High Holidays, where students from Grade 1 – 6 taught us the meaning behind Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. It was so lovely to see the pride they felt in sharing their families’ religious and cultural traditions. Thanks to all those families who were able to come out in support, and attend the reception following Prayers.
Then, this afternoon, we welcomed X-Country students in Grades 1 – 3 from several other schools in the GTA to participate in a “Fun-Run” across the HC Campus. It was a wonderful way to celebrate the culmination of the season, and to have so many families join in the fun! The smiles on their faces showed just how much they have loved being part of the U9 Cross-Country Squad. A huge thank you to all of our coaches for working with, and running alongside the girls both at recess and early every Thursday morning. The fact that the sun was shining brightly, and the weather was warm, was the icing on the cake of a great season!
Enjoy the sun and warmth this weekend!
Sincerely,
Kate
Today’s edition of “The Weekly” contains information on the following:
With the fluctuations in temperatures over the last several weeks, please ensure that your child comes to school with the appropriate clothing so that they can enjoy their time outdoors.
A reminder that students are permitted to wear Havergal “Spirit Wear,” such as HC plaid lounge pants or sweatpants under their tunic or skirt. These can be a great option, as an extra layer of warmth on colder days! They are NOT, however, permitted to wear these items in class, or during the regular school day.
REMINDERS
Registration for Gator Care
A reminder that families who use Gator Care on a drop-in basis must register students by 9:00 am on the day they require care.
Making Changes to Your Child’s Attendance and Arrival/Dismissal Schedule
We ask that families update your child’s attendance and/or arrival/dismissal schedule, using the “Report Attendance Tool,” which can be found on the Parent Portal, rather than calling the Junior School Office.
Thank you kindly for your support.
Green Tags and Dismissal
If your child has been registered for independent dismissal, and they have a green tag, please note that you do not need to provide the teachers on duty outside with their carline code. Simply give them a “thumbs up” 👍, and we will know they are registered for an independent dismissal. Students know they are to be on the lookout for who is picking them up, so that they can move swiftly to their cars.
Should your child lose their green tag, they can simply go down to the front office, and once we verify they are on the list, we are happy to issue them with another one.
Fostering Purpose in Our Kids – Tuesday, October 29 (7:00 pm – 8:30 pm)
As part of our Parents as Partners Speaker Series, Havergal is delighted to welcome Dr. Belle Liang & Tim Klein on Tuesday, October 29, authors of ‘How to Navigate Life’. Their research and talk will focus on helping our kids find purpose and its vital connection to their wellbeing (and ours). The talk will be from 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm in the Legacy Theatre and will have relevant takeaways for parents of students of all ages (JK-12). Registration for the event can be found here.
Our guest speakers will also be working with our students from Grades 7 – 12 during their day and running professional development with our faculty. This commitment to fostering purpose in students at Havergal and embedding its principles in our programming is a part of a year-long partnership with Liang and Klein and we welcome your partnership on this key next step in our commitment to wellbeing.
Half-Day on Tuesday, October 29 – Early Dismissal Times
We are thrilled that our teachers will have the opportunity to engage in professional development with Dr. Belle Liang & Tim Klein on Tuesday, October 29, prior to their presentation with our families.
Please note the following:
Students will remain at school for lunch and lunch recess.
12:30 pm – 1:00 pm Staggered dismissal
Kindergarten to Grade 3
12:30 pm – 12:45 pm
Grade 4 – Grade 6
12:45 pm – 1:00 pm
Gator Care
Is available, at the regular fee, from 12:30 pm – 6:00 pm;
Registration is mandatory, so that we are able to plan accordingly;
To register, please complete THIS FORM, by Friday, October 25.
CO-CURRICULARS
Athletics
Good luck to the students in their final tournament of the season.
The Weekly: Junior School 