Friday, January 10, 2025

On By Havergal Upper School

A Message from the Heads: Cissy Goodridge & Deirdre Timusk

Dear Parents & Students,

The start of a new year brings opportunities for personal reflection and recommitment. This week, we began with Prayers, where our Chaplain encouraged students to take a moment to reflect on their accomplishments and take pride in how far they have come. Our Prayers Prefect shared a thoughtful reminder that perseverance matters more than perfection and urged students not to give up on their New Year’s resolutions. Finally, our School Captain inspired everyone to look ahead with excitement and anticipation for what lies ahead.

As we continue our journey together, this term promises to be filled with meaningful moments and growth.

Thank you for your continued support, and as always, we welcome your feedback and involvement as we work together to create a vibrant, inclusive environment for all our students.

For members of our community who celebrated Orthodox Christmas, we hope you had a Merry Christmas.

Cissy Goodridge, Head of Middle School

Deirdre Timusk, Head of Senior School

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

UPPER SCHOOL (Gr. 7 – 12)

MIDDLE SCHOOL (Gr. 7 – 8)

SENIOR SCHOOL (Gr. 9 – 12)

HCPA

REMINDERS

NEXT WEEK IN THE UPPER SCHOOL

UPPER SCHOOL

Prayers Updates: Educational Speakers Coming

As part of our ongoing commitment to building community and inclusive spaces, we will be offering two learning opportunities for students in the coming weeks.

Next week in Prayers on Thursday, January 16, we welcome guests from the education team of Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Centre in a learning session about antisemitism: what it is, how it shows up today, and how we can be allies in combating it. Students interested in a deeper conversation with our speakers will also have the opportunity to sign up in advance for an optional session during the first period. With the rise in antisemitism in Toronto, this session is an important and timely part of our educational programming for our students.

On Thursday, January 23, to mark the National Day of Action Against Islamophobia, we’ll welcome educators from the Canadian Council of Muslim Women to talk about Islamophobia, including common myths, stereotypes, gendered impacts, and how we can be allies in combating it. Students interested in a deeper conversation with our speakers will also have the opportunity to sign up in advance for an optional session during the first period for Grades 9 -12.

We understand these topics can be challenging. Our student support team will be available to assist students during and after these sessions. We appreciate your partnership in our ongoing commitment to educating against hate and continuing to nurture an inclusive, affirming school community.

Re-registration: January 27 – February 2, 2025

Re-registration for the 2025/26 school year will open on Monday, January 27.  Families will receive an email from the Board of Governors on that day with a link to reregistration and can also access reregistration through the Parent Portal Landing Page. 

Re-registration is due on Monday, February 2 and we cannot guarantee a place for students who re-register after this date.  While we are certainly hoping to be welcoming all of our students back next year, we recognize that family situations change and relocations occur.  If you are aware that your daughter is not returning to Havergal, please let us know by emailing Maggie Houston-White as soon as possible so we can ensure we have a fulsome admission process at all necessary years.

Grade 8 – 11 Parents – Virtual Parent Information Evening for Course Selection: Thursday, January 16  

On Thursday, January 16 the Guidance Counsellors will be hosting a Course Selection information night for parents of students in Grades 8 – 11 via Zoom at 7 pm. 

Current Grade 8s Going into Grade 9 with Ms. Steele:

Current Grade 9s Going into Grade 10 with Ms. Winograd:

Current Grade 10s going into Grade 11 with Ms. Miki: 

Current Grade 11s Going into Grade 12 with Mr. Frost:

Student Course Selection: January 17 – February 7, 2025

Student course selection is beginning. Parents and students can use this link to access the 2025-2026 Course Calendar. Selections will be completed by students online beginning on Friday, January 17 and are due by Friday, February 7. Students are encouraged to meet with their guidance counsellors to discuss options.

Parent-Teacher Conferences: Thursday, February 6 & Friday, February 7

Parent-Teacher Conferences will be held virtually on Thursday, February 6 at 3 – 8 pm and Friday, February 7 at 8 am – 4 pm.

  • The Pick-A-Time booking system will open on Wednesday, January 22 at noon and will close on Wednesday, February 5 at noon.
  • After Pick-A-Time closes, the only way to book appointments is by emailing teachers directly; only they will be able to add to their schedules.
  • Please ensure your Zoom account is up-to-date. See Zoom Instructions.
  • Once booked, individual conference schedules and Zoom links are accessed via Pick-A-Time.

If you have questions or concerns about Parent-Teacher Conferences, please contact Jennifer Goldberg, Director of Academic Operations.

Going Away for More than 3 School Days in the Upcoming Months?

Will your daughter miss more than three days of school in a row? If so please follow our extended absence procedure. Parents are required to contact their child’s Head of School to request an extended absence. Once the absence has been approved, the Head of School will inform the child of the next steps. This process is an important first step in supporting your child while she is away from school. Please do this well in advance to allow at least two weeks for the process.

Feminist Alliance and Youth Without Shelter Clothing Drive: January 13 – 31

Our Feminist Alliance is excited to support Youth Without Shelter, one of our community partnerships that provides emergency housing, support, and resources to homeless and at-risk youth.

From Monday, January 13 to Friday, January 31, the Feminist Alliance will be collecting essential items such as Black hair care, body lotion, new sweatpants (all sizes), new twin-sized bed sheet sets, new twin-sized comforters, new bras (all sizes), new underwear (all sizes and types), and boxers (boxer briefs preferred).

These contributions will directly benefit young individuals who face the challenges of homelessness, providing them with the care and necessities they deserve. By participating, your family can play a meaningful role in supporting vulnerable youth and fostering a stronger, more inclusive community.

Donations can be dropped off in the Resource Centre (C29). 

Thank you for your generosity and for supporting our students in their efforts to make a positive impact.

Update to Major Dates Calendar: JS Christmas Concert & US Carol Service moved to Wednesday, December 10

Please note that there has been an update in the Major Dates calendar. The Junior School Christmas Concert, and the Upper School Carol Service will now take place on Wednesday, December 10 (NOT on Thursday, December 11 as previously communicated). As a reminder these are mandatory events for our students.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

Sterling Hall Social: Friday, January 17

Grade 7 and 8 students are invited to register their interest in attending the Sterling Hall Social, next Friday, January 17 from 7 – 9 pm. Students were sent a registration form earlier this week. Registration closes at 6 pm on Friday, January 11. Successful candidates will be notified on Monday, January 13.

Grade 7 Student Leadership: Tuesday, January 21

On Tuesday, January 21, our Grade 7 students will have the opportunity to run for the position of Form or Spirit Rep. Students are able to nominate themselves and must prepare a one minute speech for their classmates. The speeches and elections will be held on Tuesday, January 21 in their Form rooms. Interested students are encouraged to speak to their Form teachers to get their self nomination form, or they may download a copy of it HERE. Please speak to your child and encourage them to put their name forward.

SENIOR SCHOOL

Parent Education Evening – Save the Date: Tuesday, February 18 at 7 pm in EK Library

Lexi Koster, a Toronto-based Sexual Violence Prevention Educator, Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist & Child Life Specialist will be here to present to our Grade 11 & 12 parents. Sexual violence is a growing issue on post-secondary campuses, largely due to a lack of early education on topics like consent, bodily autonomy and bystander intervention. Through uplifting workshops and keynotes, Lexi gives audiences the confidence to talk openly about sexual violence and take action toward its prevention. Having formerly worked as Queen’s University’s Sexual Violence Prevention Educator, Lexi knows the difference it makes to have these important conversations before stepping foot on campus. Parents are encouraged to join us on February 18 where Lexi will cover the landscape of campus sexual violence and impart strategies to continue the conversation at home. To register please click HERE.

Grade 11 and 12 students will also meet with Lexi on Tuesday, February 18 during Grade Programming.  Students will take part in interactive case studies and walk away with practical tools to keep themselves and others safe as they transition to post-secondary life. 

Over the past seven years, Lexi has worked with thousands of high school students across Canada, mobilising them to be part of the solution. She hopes that through early education, we can reduce the incidence of sexual violence on post-secondary campuses in years to come. If you have any questions please reach out to Deirdre Timusk.

Grade 11 Students – Special Workshop: Thursday, February 6 at 8:30 am – 1:40 pm

All Grade 11 students will be engaging in a special workshop aimed at helping them learn more about themselves and others as they begin to think about their transition to their graduating year. They will consider their role as the Class of 2025 leading the student body and the legacy they want to leave as a graduating class. The day of programming begins at 8:30 am and ends at 1:40 pm, corresponding with the shortened school day for Parent Teacher Interviews. Attendance is mandatory and required for any students interested in any form of leadership in Grade 12. We look forward to having them share with you some of their personal learnings from the day.

Guidance Department News  

Grade 12 students – Important University Deadlines 

  • The deadline for Ontario high school students to submit their completed application to the OUAC is Wednesday, January 15 at 7 pm
  • Western Ivey Applications: Due Wednesday, January 15 at 11:59 pm 
  • UBC (All Programs): Due Wednesday, January 15
  • U of Toronto Engineering Personal Profile: Due Wednesday, January 15
  • Reminder that Western Engineering requires the CASPer test to assess applications (Register and take the test online HERE).

Global Up Teen: Global Competence Microcredential

Havergal College in partnership with AFS Intercultural Programs is offering a microcredential on global competence called Global Up Teen. This program is a one-of-a-kind, blended program, open to teens (aged 14-17) to develop key global skills for the emerging future and build bridges across cultures, all while becoming part of a truly global community. Students will earn an HC Microcredential as well as an international certificate from AFS Canada. 

Students interested in Exchange, Global Learning Experiences, current Boarders and Global Learning Leading Diploma students would greatly benefit from the program’s curriculum. Watch a DEMO here. All necessary info can be found below:

  • 5 in-person sessions, starting Thursday, January 23 from 3:45 – 5 pm (Option to indicate alternate after school timing)
  • 1.5 hours of online course work per week, through an interactive LMS 
  • Cost $185
  • REGISTER HERE
  • Contact Fatima Kaba for more information

In Grade Programming This Week

Planning for next year is already in the works! This week is all about Course Selection Information for Grades 9-11.  Students will also have opportunities in the upcoming weeks to meet with teachers and students in their TA and House to learn more about courses during morning programming time. Encourage your daughter to ask as many questions as she needs to help ensure a course combination that will help her reach her goals.  Grade 12 students will review OUAC deadlines and other important university information as they plan for their next big step!

HCPA

Gator Gala! Save the Date: Saturday, April 5

All Upper School students and an adult guest are invited to join us for an evening of dining and dancing “A Celebration of Asia”—more details coming soon!

Upcoming Parent Socials

Please save the date for the following evening parent socials:

  • Grade 11: Monday, January 27 at 7 – 9 pm
  • Grades 9 & 10: Wednesday, February 19 at 7 – 9 pm
  • Grades 7 & 8: Tuesday, February 25 at 7 – 9 pm

REMINDERS

Grad Parents – Grad Wear Awaits You!

If you ordered grad wear and haven’t picked it up yet, it’s waiting for you at the school! Please remind your daughter to come to B10 to pick up her gear.

Current Exchange Parent Virtual Information Evening – Travelling Abroad: Monday, January 13

This is for CURRENT 2024-2025 Exchange Parents:

  • Monday, January 13, 5:30 – 6:30 pm, virtual on Zoom
  • Students do not need to attend as they will receive a more comprehensive training in their workshops.

Please contact Jenn Russell for all questions relating to our Exchange Program.

2025-2026 In-Person Exchange Program Introduction Session: Wednesday, January 15, BRH

This program introduction is mandatory for all interested student applicants and at least one parent/guardian as it’s important you understand the program you are applying to:

  • Wednesday, January 15, 6 – 7:30 pm, Brenda Robson Hall
  • Current Grade 7 and Grade 9 students and families interested in this opportunity are invited. For more information about the program, visit the Global Exchange Program page. 
  • Application information is listed below with all Global Experience Applications.

Please contact Jenn Russell for all questions relating to our Exchange Program.

Global Experiences Applications: Due Monday, January 20

For more information about the program, visit the Global Experience Offerings or review the Zoom Recording and Global Experience Slide Deck.

NEXT WEEK IN THE UPPER SCHOOL

Wednesday, January 15

  • MS Club Registration Opens, 8:15 am (students self-register)
  • Introductory Exchange Information Evening for Parents, 6 pm in BRH 

Thursday, January 16

  • Grade 8-11 Parent Information –  Course Selection Evening, 6:30 pm (virtual)

Friday, January 17 

  • MS COSSOT Sterling Hall Social, 7 – 9 pm

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