Author: Havergal Upper School

Havergal College is an independent girls school (JK to Grade 12) in Toronto, Canada.

Upper School College Blog – Friday, April 1, 2022

On By Havergal Upper SchoolLeave a comment

Dear Parents,

Students arrived after the break to discover many exciting surprises. Chartwells opened the Servery to the Havergal Community, offering service as it was pre-Covid. Students were welcomed with a Carnival theme complete with festive decorations, games, free cotton candy and popcorn. Later in the week, students left the building with hot chocolate and cookies in hand. Finally, we had an amazing Winter Athletics Awards Assembly which highlighted the accomplishments of the 16 different teams. 

Although the weather is not yet cooperating, spring is in the air. We have had a record number of students trying out for our numerous spring teams and the excitement is palpable. Arts Week is coming up and there will be dance and music performances that parents can attend in person. 

We are delighted to see all these changes and are looking forward to a wonderful spring term with many exciting events to share with families. 

The US Blog contains information and updates on the following: 

Sincerely,

JJ Patterson, Head of Middle School

Deirdre Timusk, Head of Senior School

Latest News

Upper School Update Report Card – Monday, April 11 @ 4:00pm

Parents and students will be able to access the update report card on Monday, April 11 at 4 pm through Veracross. Middle School parents should be aware that for the full-year courses (Math, French, English, Health & Physical Education), there have been few classes and a limited number of assessments since the Parent-Teacher conferences in March. For details on the report card format and how to access the report, please click here.

Recording from NEDIC Parent Presentation

Thank you for joining us on Wednesday for our evening event with NEDIC – Finding the Balance: Navigating Conversations Around ‘Healthy’ Eating and Exercise. For those of you who were not able to attend the event, please find the video recording here. We hope the event was insightful and helpful to our parents and school community as we partner to promote disordered eating awareness, prevention and treatment. Together, through health promotion, early intervention, and prevention efforts we continue to support the wellbeing of our community. You will find a list of resources provided to us by NEDIC here. 
We value and appreciate your input as we continue to develop presentations for our parent community. Please take a few minutes to complete the embedded google feedback form.

University Information: Applying to UK & US Schools

Please find here the recording from the presentation earlier this year.  Here is the slidedeck for UK University information. Here is the slidedeck for the US University information.

In-person Parent Presentation by Dr. Alex Russell

You are invited to join us Wednesday, April 13, 2022 in the Brenda Robson Hall to hear psychologist Dr. Russell speak about this important and timely topic. This evening will offer parents an understanding of academic, social and emotional impacts of the pandemic, as well as clear and helpful guidelines to help support teenage children in the months and years ahead.

Doors open at 6:00 pm; the presentation will run from 6:30 – 8:00pm. The session will be livestreamed over Zoom if you prefer to attend virtually, and will be recorded for viewing and reviewing. Please RSVP here by April 8 if you plan to attend in person, and submit any questions you would like Dr. Russell to answer. All guests must be fully vaccinated and pass Toronto Public Health’s health screening.

Performing Arts

Check us out on our Performing Arts Instagram page!

Keep up to date on what’s happening in the performing arts on our new insta page. You can find us at: @hc.performingarts

April 4 – 8 is Arts Week!

The information regarding the daily activities, can be found here: Arts Weeks Poster

Senior School Dance Troupe Performance

The Senior School Dance Troupe is thrilled to be putting on the annual Dance Show: It Came to Me in a Dream with two live performances Thursday, April 21st at 4pm and Friday, April 22nd at 7pm. Why are we so sleep-deprived? What are our dreams really trying to tell us? The show features an amazing collection of original student choreographies in ballet, urban and contemporary dance all revolving around what happens between sunset and sunrise. 

If your family, friends or your child would like to see the show in person, tickets can be purchased by your child at lunchtime in the Temerty Commons during the week of the shows, through Mme Bryant in the Languages Office, or tickets can be bought at the door. Tickets are limited; $20 will be charged to your student account. 

Come celebrate live dance and a good night’s sleep in the Legacy Theatre! No pyjamas required.

Grade 7 Parents: Reach Ahead Math Application Reminder

Please be reminded that if your child would like to apply for Reach Ahead Grade 8 Mathematics, you must complete this registration form by April 30. All Grade 7 parents have already received an email from Alex Shum, Head of Mathematics & Computer Science, with all the pertinent and detailed information. Please refer to this email and, if you have any questions, contact Alex Shum at ashum@havergal.on.ca.

COVID-19 Testing & Reporting Positive COVID-19 Results

When a student is ill, or has symptoms associated with COVID-19 they may test using a PCR take home test, two Rapid Antigen Tests separated by a minimum of 24 hours, or isolate for a minimum of 5 days after symptom onset. See details on how to complete testing in the Symptomatic COVID-19 Testing For Students and Employees at Havergal. Even with negative test results, students must have symptoms improving for 24 hours, prior to returning to school. All students should maintain a stock of two Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) at home in the event that they become ill. Most students will have many tests at home from our previous Rapid Antigen Screening Program (RASP). If a student does not have any RATs at home, or has used up their test supply due to illness, please contact covid@havergal.on.ca or visit the Health Centre to obtain a pack of two additional RATs. As the RASP has concluded, we are no longer using the Thrive Health web-based application, so please inform covid@havergal.on.ca of any positive COVID-19 tests and we will continue to update the COVID-19 Case Reporting Spreadsheet. 

Reporting Student Absences

In order to maintain accurate attendance records, we need parents to use SchoolPass to communicate student absences to the DSO. We need a SchoolPass entry for each day your child is absent. For a multi-day absence, you can make a single entry where you select ALL dates they will be absent. Please do NOT indicate a multi-day absence in the “Notes” section. If the absence is due to COVID isolation, please include “Isolating” in the “Notes” section.
Click here to review instructions on reporting student absences in SchoolPass.

Student Immunization Update (meningococcal, human papillomavirus, hepititus B)

Beginning in March 2022, Toronto Public Health will be re-starting community vaccine clinics to administer meningococcal, human papillomavirus and hepatitis B vaccines for any students in grades 7 to 12 who are missing these vaccinations. These vaccines were previously administered in school-based clinics in grades 7 and 8, however, all TPH school-based vaccine administration was placed on hold at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the last 2 years, many students have received these vaccinations through their family doctors or primary care providers.

If your child has not yet had the above-mentioned vaccines, families may review the Parent Vaccine Information Package, book an appointment for a community clinic at www.tphBookings.ca/tph/studentvaccines, and complete the TPH Consent Form to bring to the appointment. The meningococcal vaccine is mandatory for school attendance, so please ensure that your child’s vaccination records are updated on the Toronto Public Health Vaccine Reporting Webpage. 

Mask Reminder

The Ontario government announced that mandatory masking for schools has been removed as of March 21. Masking at Havergal will now be optional for all students and employees. We recognize that students and employees may choose to continue to wear their masks and Havergal will remain a mask-friendly environment. We ask that everyone in our community be supportive of students and employees’ individual choices and model kindness and compassion.

Additionally, we ask that you have individual discussions with your children about being respectful of individual choice, including refraining from asking questions about why or why not someone is wearing a mask, and to ensure that children understand there are some circumstances at school which will still require mask-wearing, such as during some group assemblies. Students are still required to have a medical mask with them for times and circumstances in which they are required.

Instances in which masks will still be required:

  • For this period of transition, we ask that all students continue to wear masks when in large gatherings such as Prayers.
  • For 14 days upon return from travel outside of Canada, as required by current federal travel requirements.
  • For six to 10 days after a self-isolation period of five days, following a COVID-19 diagnosis as outlined by TPH.
  • If you are identified as a close contact of someone with COVID-19, masks are required for 10 days from your last exposure, as outlined by TPH.

COSSOT Relay for Life

This year, a group of leaders from Havergal and UCC are organising the annual COSSOT (Coalition of Single Sex Schools of Toronto) Relay for Life in support of the Canadian Cancer Society. The event will be from 4:30pm to 8:30pm on April 28th, 2022. This year’s entertainment will include themed laps, mechanical bulls, dunk tanks, food trucks, and so much more!  Crescent, RSGC, BSS, Branksome, Haveragal will all be attending this event at UCC.

We will be looking for teams of students to sign up to fundraise for and participate in this event to support the Canadian Cancer Society, and strongly encourage all of your children to join a team and participate in this exciting event. Parents are also welcome to put together a team. To sign up or support please click here. 

Book Drive Update

We collected a grand total of 1,402 books from the Havergal community! Thank you for your support with this project, we couldn’t have done it without you. 

Dates on the Horizon

Senior School Music Night

  • Tuesday, April 12th – 7:00 pm 

Dr. Alex Russell Parent Presentation 

  • Wednesday, April 13th – 6:30 – 8:00 pm (in-person or virtual), details above

Easter Weekend

  • Friday, April 15 – No School
  • Monday, April 18 – No School

Founders’ Day

  • Thursday, April 21 – details to come 

Senior School Dance Troupe Performance

  • Thursday, April 21 – Legacy Theatre – 4 pm 
  • Friday, April 22 – Legacy Theatre – 7 pm 

PD Day

  • Friday, May 6 – No School for Students

Upper School College Blog – Friday, March 4, 2022

On By Havergal Upper SchoolLeave a comment

Dear Upper School Parents,

We, like you, have been watching the devastating humanitarian crisis in Ukraine with profound sadness and disbelief. As we are steadfast in our mission to prepare women to make a difference, we recognize the strength and courage of all of those involved. As a global community, with boarding students, faculty and staff from around the world, we are acutely aware of the many personal connections to what is happening. Many of our students have questions about what is happening, and are trying to make sense of what they are seeing and hearing. We are navigating these conversations at Havergal, in ways that are age and stage appropriate and wanted to re-share some resources that may be helpful, for discussions at home.

Crisis and Grief Response

We also wanted to share a couple of donation opportunities, initiated by members of our community: Ukraine Relief Donation Opportunities.

The Upper School College Blog contains information and updates on the following: 

Sincerely, 

JJ Patterson – Head, Middle School

Deirdre Timusk – Head, Senior School

Kate White – Head, Junior School

Latest News

Chartwells Transition to Retail Services in the Upper School begins March 28

We are excited to announce that Chartwells Food Services will now be offering a retail food service program in the Upper School Servery starting Monday, March 28, 2022. The final day to place orders will be Wednesday, March 2 with the final week of service being the week of March 7. Once the new retail service starts, pre-ordering lunches will no longer be available to Upper School students. The lunch program in the Junior School will remain the same with no changes.

The new hours at the Upper School Servery are as follows:

  • 7 to 8:30 am: Breakfast available
  • 8:30 to 11:30 am: Severy closed 
  • 11:30 am to 1:30 pm: Lunch available
  • 1:30 to 4 pm: Snacks available 
  • 4 pm: Servery closes 

There will be a variety of hot food items, grab-and-go salads and sandwiches, homemade soup, snacks, hot and cold beverages, and fresh baked goods available every day. We will also be featuring a weekly food pop-up station, along with fun food-related games and activities to engage and educate the students about healthy eating. A four-week menu cycle will be available closer to opening day and the weekly menu will be displayed on our digital screens.

Students are required to use their Havergal swipe cards to purchase items in the Servery and pricing for all items will be clearly marked. As with the pre-order system, all items will be charged to the student account.

The following food stations will be opening on Monday, March 28:

  • Chop’d and Wrap’d – custom make your own deli sandwiches and wraps
  • The Kitchen – homestyle cooked meals with entrée and side options
  • Grab-and-Go – pre-packed sandwiches, salads, snacks and beverages
  • Hydration – cold beverages
  • Bake Shoppe – fresh baked goods 

We look forward to serving and welcoming you to the Servery following March Break. Our friendly Food Services team will be on site to answer any questions students will have. Click here to read FAQs for more information.

Rapid Antigen Screening Program Update

Havergal will be discontinuing the school-wide Rapid Antigen Screening Program (RASP) for all fully vaccinated students at the beginning of March Break (March 11) and all student accounts  will be deactivated. Remaining testing kits do not need to be returned to Havergal, but rather we ask that students keep tests at home and use the Rapid Antigen Tests if/when students develop symptoms of COVID-19. 

Consult the Symptomatic COVID-19 Testing for Students document for further information about how to conduct rapid antigen testing if your child develops symptoms. All students should maintain a stock of at least two Rapid Antigen Tests at home, to use in the event they develop symptoms. Please note that SchoolPass screening questions, along with guidance documents and reporting processes will be updated over March Break to reflect the discontinuation of Thrive and rapid antigen screening. 

The RASP will continue for the Boarding School and any Upper School students who are not fully vaccinated. Information about how to report results and confirm testing will be shared with these groups directly.

Travel Information

Note that Havergal follows Toronto Public Health Screening Guidelines and thus federal travel quarantine travel rules. The federal government has loosened requirements for children under 12 travelling with vaccinated adults beginning on Feb 28, 2022. Please review the Federal Quarantine Requirements for Children and Families to determine how this impacts your family and travel. If travelling with vaccinated adults, students under 12 are now able to come to school without needing to quarantine, even if not fully vaccinated.

GO-VAXX Mobile Vacine Clinic at Havergal

On Saturday, March 5, GO-VAXX mobile vaccine bus will be on-site at Havergal College’s Upper School parking lot (1451 Avenue Road) from 10 am to 6 pm to administer first, second and booster doses for those aged 12 and up, and paediatric Pfizer vaccines for children ages five to 11. Vaccinations will be available to everyone—students, parents, faculty and staff, Alums/Old Girls—as well as friends, neighbours and beyond. All are welcome!

GO-VAXX is a partnership between the Ontario government and Metrolinx, whereby GO buses have been converted to serve as mobile vaccine clinics to provide a safe, reliable and convenient option for people to receive their COVID-19 vaccine. Walk-ins are available, while supplies last. To book an appointment, visit the COVID-19 vaccination portal or call the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900. Bookings are available beginning Friday, March 4 at 8 am. Visit Ontario.ca/vaccinebus for more information.

Spring Athletic Tryouts

Please see below for a reminder about spring athletics:

Registration opens: Thursday, March 3 at 8 am

Registration closes: Wednesday, March 9 at 12 pmThe tryout schedule can be found HERE (3rd tab – Spring 2022) and the Veracross link for registration is https://events.veracross.com/hc/332-springus. Students and parents have received more information in their email from Carla Di Filippo, Director of Athletics. Please reach out directly to Ms. Di Filippo if you have any questions.

Performing Arts Update

Congratulations to all who were involved in the Drama productions: The Orphan Train and 13 Past Midnight. The shows were excellent and highlighted the talents of our students both on and off stage. Bravo!

Spring Performance Dates to Note:

  • Senior School Music Night April 12, 7pm
  • Dance Show: Thursday April 21 4pm, April 22nd, 7pm
  • Middle School Musical Theatre Review: May 19th, 7pm
  • Middle School Concert: Thursday May 26, 7pm

Middle School Musical Theatre Auditions:

Live auditions for the Middle School Spring Music Theatre Club (Grade 7 & 8 only) will be held on Tuesday, March 29 in the Theatre. Details regarding the audition process will be posted on the Middle School bulletin board and can be found here: Audition Requirements for the Middle School Mini Musical Review If you have any questions please contact Cissy Goodridge, Director of Performing Arts.

Founders’ Day – Thursday, April 21, 2022

The Upper School will be returning to St. Paul’s Bloor Street for our annual Founders’ Day service on April 21st. Founders’ Day is an annual event at Havergal that celebrates the laying of the cornerstone of our present Upper School building, which was laid on April 23, 1926. To commemorate this event, the school Upper School community will gather in-person at St. Paul’s Bloor Street. More details to follow. 

HOGA Annual Events

The HOGA Annual Events committee invites you to attend the upcoming webinar Wellbeing in a Pandemic: Is This Even A Thing? Featuring Dr. Shelly Dev 94’ MD FRCPC, Sunnybrook, Staff Intensivist. As we close out two years of the pandemic, many are finding themselves burnt out. Join Dr. Shelly Dev 94′ who will lead us in a discussion on what it means; how to recognize it and what we can do to cope.

Date: March 29, 2022

Time: 12:00 to 1:00 PM (EST)

Location: Virtual EventPlease register here: https://events.veracross.com/hc/330-Wellbeing-in-a-Pandemic

Upcoming Wellbeing Initiatives

We are looking forward to welcoming the following guests to engage in important conversations around wellbeing with our student and parent communities. If you have any questions about these presentations, please contact Meagan Yarmey PhD, Director of Wellbeing.

Hosted by NEDIC (National Eating Disorders Information Centre)

On March 29 and 30, Middle School and Senior School students will engage in separate interactive workshops over the course of two mornings that blend best practices in health and education policy in order to help increase students’ confidence around navigating the vast array of information around food, weight, exercise, and health. 

NEDIC Parenting Panel on March 30th (7:00-8:30pm)

Join us for an evening of discussion with NEDIC: Finding the Balance: Navigating Conversations Around ‘Healthy’ Eating and Exercise

How do messages about health impact your children and families? In this evening panel discussion, we will hear from parents, clinicians, and youth with lived experience of disordered eating as they share their experience and strategies for supporting your family’s relationship with eating, exercise, and body image.

https://havergal.zoom.us/j/82523187504?pwd=aHF5UXdXYWEyY0Fqa2VPQ3VFZ3Z6dz09

Webinar ID: 825 2318 7504

Passcode: 819563

Hosted by Canvas Programs 

For Grade 12 students

Throughout the month of April, Grade 12 students will be engaging in a two-part workshop on consent culture to prepare them for real-life social situations. Using interactive digital programming, students will explore the impacts of social expectations and sexual pressures while discovering tools to enact consent and develop consensual relationships.

For Grade 11 students

Throughout the month of May, Grade 11 students will be engaging in their own two-part interactive workshop on interpersonal consent, where they will be guided through a nuanced definition of consent, leaving students with skills to communicate in relationships and tools to identify social pressures.

US/UK University Information Session for Grades 10 & 11 – March 29, 2022 at 7pm

Current Grade 10 & 11 parents are welcome to attend a virtual Guidance information night for international applicants interested in attending universities in the US and/or the UK..

  • US information is at 7:00-7:45 pm
  • UK info is at 7:45- 8:30 pm

Here are the Zoom details:

https://havergal.zoom.us/j/88923948443?pwd=SUJJWlpTMGhCcm5pSmFEeFlCaEl4QT09

Meeting ID: 889 2394 8443

Passcode: 095018

Upper School Book Drive

To date, our Havergal community has donated 500 books for the Children’s Book Bank! Thank you so much for your generosity. Donations will be accepted until the end of day, Thursday March 10th. There are donation boxes in several locations throughout the school, but books can also be dropped off at the front security desk (attention to Genevieve Shepherd). Thanks so much to those who have volunteered to help deliver books to the Book Bank. Please reach out to Ms Shepherd (gshepherd@havergal.on.ca) if you are interested in helping with delivery. The delivery will be after March Break on the afternoon of Thursday March 7th. Books need to be dropped off at the Book Bank prior to 3pm and the boxes of books to deliver will be available for pick up at the front entrance of the school.

Dates on the Horizon

Event DatesTime
Spring Athletics Registration OPENS: Thursday, March 3 CLOSES: Wednesday, March 98:00 am12:00 pm 
Grade 12 Havercrest SocialMarch 9, 2022 4:30 – 6:30 pm 
March BreakFriday, March 11 – Sunday, March 27 (inclusive)
UK/US University SessionTuesday, March 29, 2022 7:00 – 7:45 pm (US)7:45- 8:30 pm  (UK)
HOGA Speaker: Dr. S. Dev ‘94March 29, 2022 12:00 – 1:00 pm
NEDIC Parenting Panel March 30, 2022 7:00 – 8:30 pm 
Easter BreakFriday, April 15 – Monday, April 18 (inclusive)

Student Life!

Gallery 44

A few of our students from first semester (Media 10 class) submitted photography in response to an themed exhibition at one of Torontos’ Photo Galleries – Gallery 44. The theme this year is Silver Linings. The show is virtual and the work of our students and other submissions from schools around Toronto can be seen at this link: https://www.gallery44.org/cameralinks.  Go to “Independent Submissions” and sideswipe to see the photos submitted by Alison Y, Ella W, Abbie S. and Charlotte P. The online show closes on March 31st 2022.

Action in Prayers and the HC/UCC Virtual Talent Show

Middle School: St Donat Comes to HC!

Senior School: Rosetta Lee Speaks to students

Upper School College Blog – Thursday, February 17, 2022

On By Havergal Upper SchoolLeave a comment

Dear Parents,

What a week! The halls of Havergal are still reverberating with the cheers and laughter of the students this week. Spirit Week helped to bring some fun and excitement to help get everyone through the winter.

The week opened with every student being greeted by a valentine on their locker, and the fun and games kept coming. You can see below the images from this week which show our students having fun and smiling, even through their masks, while playing bench ball with great enthusiasm and vigour. 

Hockey Day was a wonderful experience and it was so great for the Class of 2022 to be able to experience it in person for their last time as students. 

Each grade met several times to practice their cheer in order to win the cheer-off on Thursday. Seeing the students of each class all together in one space planning, practising and cheering was such a delight to witness. These moments in time help our students create the memories and bonds that will last a lifetime. 

This week’s US Blog contains information and updates on the following: 

We hope you enjoy a lovely Family Day long weekend. 

Sincerely,

JJ Patterson, Head of Middle School

Deirdre Timusk, Head of Senior School

Latest News

Updates on COVID-19 Protocols & School Visitors

As the province eases some of the COVID-19 public health measures, Havergal will be implementing a gradual and safe approach to having visitors on campus. All visitors will still be required to complete a wellness screening and provide proof of vaccination along with valid photo identification upon entry to the school. 

Guests will now be permitted to visit the school for appointments and Prayers. For athletics, performing arts, and other Havergal group events there are slightly different protocols based on the capacity limits of spaces. 

  • Athletics – If you are attending an athletics event, you will need to check in at the Athletic Centre doors by completing an online Wellness screening and showing proof of vaccination (with ID). Please note that spectators are permitted into the building a maximum of 30 min before the athletic event.
  • Performing arts and other events – If you are attending performing arts or another Havergal group event you will receive instructions from your event organizer regarding entry, screening, and proof of vaccination requirements, as they may vary depending on the size of the event and the space where the event is being held.

Next week following the February Break, we will begin a rotational schedule that allows three grades to experience Prayers in-person, together in the Brenda Robson Hall. Two grades will be seated on the floor and one grade will be seated in the gallery, to help maintain appropriate physical distancing. We are looking forward to having students attend Prayers in person in the coming weeks!

Thank you for your cooperation in helping us protect the wellness of our school community and ensuring we are taking every precaution to keep students learning in person on campus. 

Additional Resources

Restricted Access to Classes via Zoom – starting February 22, 2022

Starting Tuesday, February 22, 2022, accessing classes via Zoom will only be available for students isolating due to COVID-19 or those with a medical/visa accommodation.

  • If a student is away due to COVID-19 isolation, families should communicate this to the school by putting a note/reason in SchoolPass that says “isolating.” It might take up to 24hrs for teachers to make their Zoom links available to a student depending on when we get the information. Assessments will be written in person unless the teacher requests otherwise. 
  • If students are going to be away for longer than 5 days, please contact your child’s Head of School to discuss the situation. Extended absences will include access to class materials on Veracross and asynchronous work only. Access to zoom links will not be permitted.

Senior School Plays

The Senior School is putting on two plays this year, both of which are running this week at 4pm and 7pm. 

  • The Orphan Train, our 9/10 play,is the story of a few of the 250,000 orphans that were transported from New York City and other large urban centres to homes in the midwest to get adopted. The Orphan Train is at 7pm on Thursday (Feb 24) and at 4pm on Friday (Feb 25).
  • 13 Past Midnight, our 11/12 play,is a murder mystery farce that will keep you guessing and laughing until the end. 13 Past Midnight, is at 4pm on Thursday (Feb 24th) and Friday (Feb 25) at 7pm.

If your child would like to see the shows in person they can buy tickets to the 4 pm shows in the Temerty Commons at lunchtime, find Ms. Morris in the English/Drama office, or they can buy them at the door. Tickets will be charged to the students’ accounts. Tickets are limited. We hope you will choose to celebrate the reopening of live theatre with us in the Legacy theatre this week.

The Earth Prize: Finalists

Congratulations to the Gators, Emily in Gr. 11 and Errita in Gr. 10, who have been named as finalists in The Earth Prize. The winner of this global environmental sustainability competition will be announced on March 25th and could potentially win $100,000 to be split in half between the winners and the school.  Other schools in the finals are Eton College in the UK and the International School of Zug and Luzern in Switzerland.  Good luck, Errita and Emily!

Leadership Information

With leadership season upon us please find here a few resources to help clarify the process. 

  • A letter for grade 11, grade 10 and grade 9 with basic information and dates. 
  • Here is the LINK to the video presentation from Wednesday night’s parent presentation.

Thank you to all the parents who attended. We hope it was helpful. If, after viewing the presentation, you have any feedback please share it with us here.

OSSLT (Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test) – Wednesday, April 27

On April 27, all Grade 10 &11 students will write the OSSLT in the morning and have in-person classes through the afternoon. This will not impact the Middle School classes and Grade 7 & 8 students will have in-person classes as per usual. However, due to restrictions and limitations on space throughout the testing period, Grade 9 & 12 students will have remote learning for the day. 

Book Drive for Children’s Book Bank

Get started on your spring cleaning early by donating to Havergal’s Book Drive which will be running from February 21st to March 10th! All donations will go to the Children’s Book Bank, an organisation that provides children and teens in need with access to literature. The Book Bank has asked for new or gently used books for ages up to 17 and is in need of graphic novels, comics and manga. There will be boxes around the school where students can place their book donations.

The Book Bank does not accept: Adult books, textbooks/school workbooks, books printed more than 10 years ago, self-published books, magazines, or damaged books.

We would really appreciate parent volunteers to help us drive the books down to the Children’s Book Bank, so please let us know if you are interested and we will send you further details. Feel free to email gshepherd@havergal.on.ca if you have any questions or would like to drive. 

Dates on the Horizon

March 3 & 4: Parent/Teacher Conferences

Photos from the Week

Anything But a Backpack!

Hockey Day!

Benchball Games!

Family Feud!

Upper School College Blog – Friday, February 11, 2022

On By Havergal Upper SchoolLeave a comment

Dear Parents,

Although the Upper School Blog was not scheduled to go out today, there are a few important items that we wanted to share with you. 

The US Blog contains information and updates on the following: 

Sincerely,

JJ Patterson, Head of Middle School

Deirdre Timusk, Head of Senior School

Latest News

DEI Update from the Principal

The Principal has committed to providing ongoing updates as to Havergal’s progress on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion programming and initiatives.  Please see her February letter for a community update.

Rapid Antigen Test Update

Families may consult the COVID-19 Testing Options for Individuals With Symptoms document for more information about testing options available when students have symptoms. Remember that a student must have 2 negative tests separated by at least 24-48 hours and that a single positive Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) is considered a positive result, requiring isolation for COVID-19. Please make sure to upload positive results into Thrive, so the Health Centre is aware and can provide guidance on isolation and returning to school. 

Hockey Day Livestream

Join us and cheer on our Senior Hockey team as we compete for the Hewitt Cup! Tune in on Tuesday, February 15 at 1:00 pm using this LINK.  Go Gators!

People & Program Evening – Recording

Thank you for joining us on Thursday evening for the Semester 2 People & Program Evening. If you missed it and would like to see the recordings, Faculty will post their course presentations to their Veracross pages and the main welcome session can be viewed HERE. 

Upper School College Blog – Friday, February 4, 2022

On By Havergal Upper SchoolLeave a comment

Dear Parents,

The last few weeks have been an exciting time for students and faculty as much of the regular co-curricular programming has resumed. Teams are practicing and are eager to begin inter-school competitions, clubs are meeting in person and providing engaging activities for their members, and councils. Affinity and Alliance groups are back to meeting in person to discuss ideas and plan activities within their respective portfolios. It is an encouraging and positive direction to be moving in and we are grateful for all of the work going on behind the scenes by faculty and staff to ensure we are providing the best programming possible while maintaining strong health and safety protocols.

On Thursday, we welcomed Toks Ayinla in Prayers who encouraged our Grade 7-12 students to follow their own greatness journey. Her message was one to inspire our students to take their own unique path to become the very best version of themselves. Through this journey she encourages us to exist in a brave space as opposed to a safe space as personal growth and greatness exists in the brave zone, not the safe zone. We encourage you to speak with your child about this message and how they are taking steps to work outside of their safe zone and move into the bravery zone.  

The US Blog contains information and updates on the following: 

Sincerely,

JJ Patterson, Head of Middle School

Deirdre Timusk, Head of Senior School

Latest News

Semester 1 Report Card – Monday, February 7

Please see this letter to learn more about the Semester 1 final report card which will be available to parents and students on Monday, February 7 at 4 pm.

People & Program Evening for Semester 2 Courses – February 10, 2022

We look forward to seeing you at the Semester 2 People and Program Evening on Thursday, February 10 at 6:30 pm. It is your opportunity to meet your child’s Grade Lead/Guidance Counselor, and Subject Teachers who are teaching courses starting in Semester 2. 

In order to have the best possible experience at the upcoming event, it is required that you have a Zoom account and it is strongly recommended that your application be updated to the latest version. The following information and links have been provided by our IT department for your use:

An information page containing your child’s Semester 2 teachers and their zoom links will be sent to you on Tuesday, February 8.

Accessing Classes Via Zoom – Update starting February 22, 2022

Starting Tuesday, February 22, 2022, accessing classes via Zoom will only be available for students isolating due to COVID-19 or those with a medical/visa accommodation.

  • If a student is away due to COVID-19 isolation, families should communicate this to the school by putting a note/reason in SchoolPass that says “isolating.” It might take up to 24hrs for teachers to make their Zoom links available to a student depending on when we get the information. Assessments will be written in-person unless the teacher requests otherwise. 
    • As a reminder, the chart below illustrates which symptoms require a student to stay home and isolate. Isolation is also required for 5 days should a student or anyone they live with, test positive for COVID-19.

  • If students are going to be away for longer than 5 days, please contact your child’s Head of School to discuss the situation. Extended absences will include access to class materials on Veracross and asynchronous work only. Access to zoom links will not be permitted.
  • If a student is unable to attend school in person because they have a medical exemption or a visa issue, students are placed in the remote cohort with access to class via zoom and other remote learning supports. Families in this situation should email the appropriate Head of School to ensure those remote learning supports are in place for their child. 

Invitation: Grade 7-11 Leadership Webinar for Parents – February 16 – 6:30 pm

Parents with children in Grades 7-11 are invited to a webinar on Wednesday, February 16 to learn more about the leadership opportunities available in the Upper School. To help us prepare, we invite you to put your questions into this anonymous google form.

Faculty Update: JJ Patterson, Head of Middle School

It is with equal parts joy and sadness that we share that JJ Patterson has been appointed the Assistant Head of School, Director of the Upper School at St. Anne’s School for the 2022-2023 school year.

JJ joined Havergal in 2011 and in her time here she has been a passionate teacher, coach, Department Head of Health and Physical Education, and Head of the Middle School. As Department Head, JJ led the Health & Physical Education team for two years with a unique combination of strengths and innovative ideas, drawing on her experiences as a high performance athlete and coach. A leader who encourages and values collaboration, she focused on growing the department and cultivating an enthusiastic and mutually supportive team.

JJ has guided the Middle School since the fall of 2013. She is passionate about all things Middle School – whether it is supporting new students, planning excursions, working with the Middle School council and Form teachers, or braving the Middle School hallway during class changeover – her goal has always been to ensure that students have the best possible experience at Havergal.

Please join us in congratulating JJ and wishing her all the best at St. Anne’s next year.

Spirit Week – February 14 – 17

Spirit Week is a great way for students to get involved with school spirit and participate with their grade. Each grade competes as a team in various competitions such as trivia, benchball and a cheer-off. There is a daily dress-down theme for each day of the week and the Clubs and Spirit Prefects and Grade Spirit Reps have many exciting events planned! 
Part of Spirit Week includes our beloved Hockey Day, which is confirmed for Tuesday, February 15, 2022 at Mattamy Athletic Centre. We are excited to watch our senior hockey team battle it out for the Hewitt Cup. The puck will drop at 1:00 pm and there will be a livestream link available for families and friends to join in on the fun. Let’s go Gators!!

COSSOT Updates

  • We are in talks with Crescent to have our students connect in-person before we leave for March Break. Stay tuned for more details!
  • There will be a virtual Talent Show coming Friday, February 25 with Crescent. 

In addition, Relay for Life will be held on April 28 at Upper Canada College. BSS, Branksome, RSGC, Crescent and Havergal will be participating. We hope that you will support the teams that sign up to help raise funds for the Canadian Cancer Society.

Drop-off and pick-up

  • Ensure that you pull up as far forward as possible when you are dropping at the Upper School.
  • Continue to stop only on the east side of the laneway 
  • Follow the directions of our amazing security team 

During pick-up you may wait on the west side of the laneway as well (but not during drop off).

Allergen Aware Reminder

Several Havergal students, faculty and staff have life threatening allergies. Havergal College exercises reasonable care to ensure that all persons are safe; however, the school cannot assume responsibility for providing a completely allergen-free environment. In order to provide a safe learning environment at the College, all members of the Havergal community will make best efforts not to bring products containing peanuts or any kind of nut, including traces of peanuts or nuts, to the College (whether on the premises or during excursions). If families are baking or buying items for College events they must make best efforts not to bring products containing nuts. Please read the Anaphylaxis Policy to learn more.

Veracross Unavailable this Saturday Evening

Veracross will be performing urgent maintenance on Saturday, Feb 5 from 8pm to 10pm EST. During this maintenance window, all portals and functions will be offline.

Covenant House

Alongside the Period Project currently being run by the Senior School Student Council, there is a personal care product drive for Covenant House being led by Sloane P. in Grade 7. As part of their extensive programming for homeless youth, Covenant House provides hygiene and feminine products to support young women who need immediate shelter and who are transitioning to stable housing. In order to support this initiative, all students are encouraged to bring new personal care products such as shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, combs, brushes, toothbrushes, soap, pads and tampons. Drop off locations can be found in various locations around the Upper School. Your support is greatly appreciated!

News from the Green & Gold

Middle School and Senior School students are welcome to pick up completed orders at the shop Monday through Friday, from 3:30 pm – 4:00 pm.

Dates on the Horizon

Feb 7: Red & White Dress Down Day for Team Canada 

(or students can choose to celebrate their country of choice)

Feb 7 at 4pm:   Report Cards available to parents/students via Veracross

Feb 14 – 17: Spirit Week (no uniform – dressing up encouraged! See the chart for more info!)

Feb 15: Hockey Day! 

Feb 16 @ 6:30: pm Grade 7-11 Parent Webinar on Student Leadership

Feb 18 – 21: Mid-Term Break

Feb 23: Pink Shirt Day – students are invited to “dress down” in pink!

Mar 11 – 27: (inclusive) March Break

Photos from the Week

Period Products in the Washrooms

More Amazing Art from Our Students

Lunar New Year Prayers

Upper School College Blog – Friday, January 21, 2022

On By Havergal Upper SchoolLeave a comment

Dear Parents,

It has been an eventful few weeks, capped off with an unprecedented two day “snow day” in Toronto. Even though we were all at home, our Havergal students pivoted effortlessly and continued to work on both school work and their co-curricular projects. Please read on to see what these amazing students have been up to! 

In this edition 

Sincerely,

JJ Patterson, Head of Middle School

Deirdre Timusk, Head of Senior School

Latest News

Sharing COVID-19 Data

We will be posting a daily update about COVID-19 positive cases (rapid antigen and PCR), that are reported to the College through Thrive Health. The data will be identified by cohort and will include the student’s last known date on campus. Updates will be posted to the Parent portal under the Parent Resources area on the link named “Thrive Test Reporting.”

The information for Thursday, January 20, 2022 can be found here. Note that only cases after January 10, 2022 are reported here, and that last dates on campus in December are approximations, as the Upper School was in remote learning.

Major Dates Calendar

The Major Dates Calendar for the 2022-2023 school year is linked here. We have looked strategically at the planning for Professional Development days and have aligned them with holidays when there is a natural synergy with family time as well as what works well for faculty professional development. 

Semester Change Over: January 27-31, no classes

Semester 1 ends on Wednesday, January 26th at 3:30 pm. Students are off school on January 27 through Janaury 31 inclusive as teachers are writing report cards and preparing for the beginning of the new semester. Classes resume for Semester 2 on Tuesday, February 1st. It will be a Day 2 on the rotation schedule.

Student Life Updates

Virtual Speakers in Class

While being online has drawbacks,  it has allowed us to access speakers for our students who might be located in another part of the world. Just in the past week our grade 12 politics classes had the pleasure of  hearing from former MP Celina Caesar-Chavannes. She spoke to our students about transformative leadership and the importance of knowing our values and beliefs clearly in order to lead with empathy and courage. “Don’t just do what is easy – do what is right.” Our media arts classes heard from Louie Palu, an award winning Canadian documentary filmmaker known for covering social-political issues, including war and human rights. His work has been published in the National Geographic Magazine, The New York Times, The Washington Post Magazine, The Guardian, Der Spiegel, and El Pais. Another photographer, filmmaker and storyteller,  Jenny Jay, CEO of The Double Jay Collective came and spoke to our Communications class as well. 

Period Project Launched

The Student Council revealed the plans for the Period Project. They have designed a pilot project to bring free, emergency menstrual products into the washrooms for our students in both the Junior School and the Upper School. There will be an educational component as well as a drive for donations for feminine products for Covenant House, spearheaded by Sloane in Grade 7. Stay tuned for more details. Thank you to our Student Council: Hannah H, Irene C, Kirsten GS, Natasha S, Lulu D, Lara C, Kaitlyn D, Leah A, Claire R, Hannah I, Hana N, Katie S for all their hard work. 

Covenant House: Personal Care Products Drive – Starts Monday, January 24

Alongside the Period Project, there is a personal care product drive for Covenant House being led by Sloane P. in Grade 7. As part of their extensive programming for homeless youth, Covenant House provides hygiene and feminine products to support young women who need immediate shelter and who are transitioning to stable housing. In order to support this initiative, all students are encouraged to bring new personal care products such as shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, combs, brushes, pads and tampons. Drop off locations can be found in various locations around the Upper School. Your support is greatly appreciated!

Course Selection Help for Grade 8s

With course selection coming for our Grade 8 students, the older students worked hard to support them. Over 25 Upper School students worked with the MS Guidance counsellors to create videos for each of the many electives that students will be choosing. Take a look at one of the videos advertising the art elective by Emily N. These videos are all on the Grade 8 Guidance section  of your child’s Veracross page.  Thank you to Lillian W, Kovi Z, Noor H, Joella L, Eve U, Ella C, Madison C, Naomi M, Asiya M, Khushi S, Shirley R, Olivia Z, Katie C, Catharine C, Kelly W, Karishma K, Frances B, Olivia M, Zoe S, Chelsea T, Mackenzie L, Grace L, Erin H, Hillary S.

Tea Party

The Prefects hosted a Tea Party for their fellow students. Over 60 students attended this event. School Captain, Marley M said, “The Zoom Tea Party provided a virtual opportunity for students from Grades 7-12 to discuss course selection, leadership, and student life. There were great fascinators and great tea selections, but most importantly, there were great conversations!” It was a great opportunity for students in different grades to connect with each other. 

Ordering Lunch: Chartwell’s Form

For the week of January 31, you are invited to submit your lunch orders by Wednesday, January 26 at 12 noon: Chartwell’s Order Form

Dates on the Horizon

Jan 24 – Feb 18: Personal Care Products Drive for Covenant House

Jan 27, 28, 31: No classes – semester change over

Jan 27 – February 8: Online re-enrolment 

February 1: Semester 2 begins

February 7: Full Report Card available at 4 pm via Veracross

Feb 10: Semester 2: People & Program Evening (6:30 pm)

Feb 18 – Feb 21 (inclusive): Mid-Term Break

March 11 – 27 (inclusive): March Break

Upper School College Blog – Friday, January 7, 2022

On By Havergal Upper SchoolLeave a comment

Dear Parents,

We had hoped that our first blog of the new year would be reflecting on a wonderful first week back, complete with pictures of students happily engaged in life on campus. We would all much rather be with your children in person, teaching and learning together. But circumstances dictate we must temporarily adjust our expectations. Please remember that your child is not going through this alone, and has the ability and the resources to get through this together with their classmates and teachers. This podcast, from Dr. Lisa Damour, also has some great strategies to help boost the mental health of everyone in your family.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to either of us or your child’s guidance counsellor if you have any questions about the Continuous Learning Plan or concerns about how your child is faring. We are happy to be a sounding board and are eager to connect and support both you and your child. As mentioned in the parent presentation this week, there are two additional social workers available to meet with virtually. In addition to Ms. Kitson we have contracted Mrs. Watkis and Ms. Rezaei who are able to meet with students.

This week’s Blog contains information and updates on the following: 

Sincerely,

JJ Patterson, Head of Middle School

Deirdre Timusk, Head of Senior School

Latest News

Planning for the 2022-2023 Academic Year – School Schedule

For next year, we will be returning to a non-semestered schedule of eight classes over two days.

  • A team of teachers met during the fall to review feedback on past schedules, research on scheduling, and looked at different schedules from many schools to propose a schedule for Grades 7-12 for the fall of 2022.  
  • The goals were to provide predictability and consistency to the schedule; to try to slow down the pace of the day; to build community through regular activities
  • After weighing the costs and benefits to a semestered versus a non-semestered schedule for all students, it was determined that a non-semestered schedule was the appropriate choice to slow down the pace of classes, and to provide more time to build relationships with teachers and peers. The only exception will be to continue to semester MHF4U and MCV4U (Grade 12 Advanced functions and Calculus) which have run every day for the past 10 years in a semestered model. 
  • An eight-day rotation schedule allows all the blocks to occupy each period to ensure no block is disadvantaged by early dismissals or special schedules. This schedule will be similar to the schedule that we have had prior to Covid
  • If you have any questions please feel free to reach out to Seonaid Davis, VP of Teaching and Learning.

Grade 8 – 11 Academic Program & Course Selection Information Session

Grade 8 – 11 parents are invited to learn more about the planning for the upcoming academic year at the Academic Program and Course Selection Information Session on Wednesday, January 12 @ 6:30 pm.

The session will begin at 6:30pm in a Zoom Webinar with an introduction and overview of the academic program. Parents will then be invited to Grade based Zoom meetings to learn more about course selection for each particular grade. Each session will be recorded and emailed to families the next day.

Zoom links for the evening can be found here.
For next year, we will be returning to a non-semestered schedule of eight classes over two days.  On balance it was decided that this was the best schedule for our students to slow down the pace of classes and to build in more time for connection with peers and teachers.

Grade 7 Parents: Reach Ahead Math Information Night – Thursday, January 13

In December, Grade 7 Parents received an invitation via email from JJ Patterson, Head of Middle School, inviting them to an information session via Zoom to explain the various math options that begin for our students in Grade 8. If you or your child are interested in Reach Ahead Math in Grade 8, this is an important session for you to attend. We hope you will be able to join us but if not, the recording and slide deck will be shared with all Grade 7 Parents following the event.

Grade 7 Parent: Reach Ahead Math Information Night ZOOM link

Webinar ID: 894 7409 1449

Passcode: 202254

Reporting Attendance While Remote

If your child will be absent and unable to attend class during this period of remote learning, please report that absence through the SchoolPass app. If you need assistance with using the SchoolPass app, please refer to this document. Thank you for your ongoing assistance and cooperation.

Rapid Antigen Screening Program

As you know, all students will be participating in the Rapid Antigen Screening Program (RASP), once we are back on campus. The rapid antigen tests will be distributed when we return to in-person schooling on January 17th and additional information will be available at that time.

Virtual Student Life

All students, from JK -12, will be participating in a House Step Challenge from Monday, January 10th to Friday, January 14th. Please encourage your child to take every opportunity to get out of the house and get their steps in! 

The Prefects will also be hosting a tea party for students in grade 7-12 next Thursday at 4 pm. Please know that all student life virtual events are entirely optional for students.

Dates on the Horizon

Wednesday, Jan 12 6:30 pm: Grade 8-11 Parents: Course Selection Information – Virtual 

Thursday, Jan 13 7:00 pm: Grade 7 Parents: Reach Ahead Math Information Night – Virtual

Friday, Feb 4 5:00 pm: Course Selections are due – Grade 8-11

Thursday, Feb 10 6:30 pm: Semester 2 People & Program Evening

Reminders

Pre-Ordering Lunch for the Week of January 17

In order to pre-order your child’s lunch for the week of January 17th, please access the same Google Form as per usual. It is active now and will remain open until Thursday, January 13th. If we are in the unfortunate situation where the government extends this period of remote learning, all orders placed for the week of January 17th will be cancelled automatically.

Upper School College Blog – Friday, December 10, 2021

On By Havergal Upper SchoolLeave a comment

Dear Parents,

It’s a busy time of the year. This past week we were treated to an amazing concert from our Symphonic Band, our Grade 9 Band, and our Orchestra. Our winter sports teams are well underway with over 27 teams starting regular practices, and the Senior School play has started rehearsals. In addition to the Grade 12 PJ day and breakfast, students have decorated cookies, sent candy grams, participated in secret gift exchanges, and added notes to our Kindness Tree. To top it all off, all students have been learning the carols in anticipation of the Carol Service next week.

Finally, the past few weeks have brought us a true feeling of winter. While the first snowfall is always exciting it is even more amazing to see it through the eyes of someone seeing it for the first time on campus. Please enjoy this short video created by Jessica G, a new Grade 10 boarder who experienced her first Toronto snowfall last week and recorded it while walking on our beautiful 33-acre campus. 

The Upper School College Blog contains information and updates on the following: 

Latest News:

Sincerely,

JJ Patterson, Head of Middle School

Deirdre Timusk, Head of Senior School

Latest News

Carol Service

Carol Service is coming on Wednesday, December 15!  

  • Further information including the streaming link will be sent on Monday, December 13. Please note that both services will be streamed and recorded and the recordings will be shared with families after the event. 
  • Grade 7 -10 students will be having their Carol Service on Wednesday, December 15 at 2pm in the Brenda Robson Hall. Parents of the performers and readers are welcome to join us in-person. Those invited to attend in person have already received an invitation from Cissy Goodridge.
  • Grade 11 & 12 students and two family member guests are invited to join us in-person at 7 pm on Wednesday, December 15, 2021, in the Brenda Robson Hall. 
  • If you are attending the service in person:
    • Please aim to arrive at least 45 minutes before the service to allow time for entering the building. The main doors will be locked ten minutes before the service begins. If you arrive later than that, please use one of the other doors to enter the building. 
    • If you did not receive your COVID-19 vaccines in Ontario please double check this link to ensure you are considered fully vaccinated in Ontario. 
    • Please do your screening before you arrive and enter through your designated door. 
    • Details along with your screening link will be sent to you via email from Cissy Goodridge the morning of Wednesday, December 15. 

Travelling Over the Break

We’d like to remind families that if you are travelling over the holidays and your child is required to quarantine following your travel, they should contact their teachers via email and they will be able to access their classwork through Veracross. Teachers and Guidance Counsellors will be accessible and supportive but students will not be able to Zoom into class.

Grade 7 Parents: Reach Ahead Math Information Night, Thursday, January 13

Earlier this week, Grade 7 Parents received an invitation via email from JJ Patterson, Head of Middle School, inviting them to an information session via Zoom on Thursday, January 13 at 7 pm to explain the various math options that begin for our students in Grade 8. If you or your child are interested in Reach Ahead Math in Grade 8, this is an important session for you to attend. Please refer to the email for additional details and the Zoom link. We hope you will be able to join us but if not, the recording and slide deck will be shared with all Grade 7 Parents following the event.

Grade 8 – 11 Parents: Course Information Night, Wednesday, January 12

All parents with children in Grades 8-11 are invited to attend Zoom Webinar on Wednesday, January 12 from 6:30 – 8:00 pm to learn about the Academic Program for the 2021-2022 school year followed by grade-specific course selection information. Please save the date and stay tuned to additional details coming in the new year. 

Green & Gold Shop

Today was the last day to pick up any unclaimed orders. Any held items will be returned to the store stock and student accounts will be credited. If you are unsure if you have an outstanding order please email Margie Fleming at mfleming@havergal.on.ca.

Retirement of Cathy Atkinson

In January of 2022, after almost 32 years of outstanding service, Cathy Atkinson will be joining her husband Glenn in blissful retirement as she begins her next exciting chapter of life. Cathy started at Havergal College in 1989 as the Evening Receptionist and in 1991 moved to the position of Guidance Administrative Assistant where she has been a formidable presence, always knowing what to do, the ever calm voice at the helm of the guidance office both figuratively and literally. Cathy’s warm personality, institutional and guidance administrative knowledge is unmatched and her retirement, though wonderful for her, leaves us the poorer. Alongside her knowledge of her own role, Cathy has been the leading organizer behind Awards Day and our beautiful graduation ceremonies for many years. We want to thank Cathy for her incredible contributions to the thousands of families and students of Havergal College whose lives she has touched. We wish her every happiness in the future. 

Back in Business with Crescent

This past weekend 16 Grade 11 and 12 Havergal students competed in a business case competition at Crescent School. It was the first time in almost two years the two schools had officially met in person for an academic event. Students deliberated over a case for three hours and then presented via zoom to a panel of expert judges. The winners were:

  • Pool A: Team 3A (Luke Hilborn, Sophie Hodgson, Matthew Overvelde and Avery Southam)
  • Pool B: Team 2B (Taylor Johnson, Shay Kothari, Eamonn Lay and Katie Stock)
  • Pool C: Team 3C (Matthew Chen, Sarah Cooke, Carys Doyle and Cameron Oland)

It was great to see everyone out at this event and we hope to participate in more events like this in the future. Thank you to all the volunteer judges who helped make this day a success.  

Flamingo Feet

We’re proud to let you know that Grade 7 student, Shreya G., has written a children’s book called Flamingo Feet. 100% of the proceeds of this book go towards charity and during the month of December, all proceeds raised by the sales of her book will be donated to SickKids Foundation. Outside the month of December, the proceeds go towards an education charity that helps young girls to attend school in developing countries. If you are interested to learn more and/or purchase a copy for yourself, Flamingo Feet is available for purchase at Indigo.ca, Amazon.ca, Amazon.com, & Barnes and Noble.

Dates on the Horizon

Wednesday, Dec 15: Carol Service

Grades 7-10: 2 pm (grade 7-10 students and invitees only)

Grades 11-12:  7 pm (grade 11 & 12 students, parents, and invitees only)

Dec 16 – Jan 3 (inclusive): School Closed for Christmas Holidays

Thursday, Dec 16: Boarding School closes at noon

Monday, Jan 3: Boarding School opens at 4 pm

Tuesday, Jan 4: Classes Resume for Students (Day 3)

Wednesday, Jan 12: Grade 8-11: Course Selection Information Night – Virtual 

Thursday, Jan 13: Grade 7: Reach Ahead Math Information Night – Virtual

Photos from the Week

Music Night and the December 6 Lunchtime Tribute

Grade 12 PJ Breakfast and Kindness Tree

Middle School and Senior School Holiday Parties

Upper School College Blog – Friday, November 26, 2021

On By Havergal Upper SchoolLeave a comment

Dear Parents,

Thrive Week is all about trying to reduce the stigma around mental health issues that students may have, while also teaching them how to cope — and even thrive — when things get tough. The week began with a riveting talk by alumnus, Kendra Fisher. She spoke to students about how she grappled with Severe Anxiety Disorder and other mental health issues but, with the help of a therapist and other health professionals, discovered strategies, including exercise and nutrition, to learn to live a healthful life of purpose. At lunchtime, therapy dogs had many eager student visitors lined up to say hello. The Prefects also put on the first ever Prefest, an all-day carnival to help students connect and give them a chance to relax and laugh with each other. We capped off the week with a talk at lunch with Gail Whitlow, a First Nations Holistic Healer. 

We hope that talking openly about mental health issues will destigmatize them, and educate our students to be more aware, enabling them to recognize potential issues in themselves, and in their friends, and be open to getting help early on. By showing courage and compassion, and working together we can support each other to be stronger, better versions of ourselves.

The US Blog contains information and updates on the following: 

Latest News:

Reminders:

Photos from the Week

Sincerely,

JJ Patterson, Head of Middle School

Deirdre Timusk, Head of Senior School

Latest News

The Middle School Play, Ten/Two – Tonight!

We are delighted to welcome back our parents to attend the Middle School Play this evening at 7 pm in the Legacy Theatre. This is an invitation-only event; parents of the participants in the show are welcome to attend the play. Please refer to the information that was sent to all invited guests by Cissy Goodridge on Saturday, Nov 20 and Friday, Nov 26. Parents with surnames A-M enter through the glass doors nearest the north parking lot and with surnames N-Z enter through the main school doors.  For your convenience, visitor information is in a reminder message below.

Unsanctioned Semi

It has been brought to our attention that there is a privately run semi-formal, “Blue Semi”, being run Saturday, November 27, 7:30 –  10:30 pm. Please know this is not affiliated with any school in Toronto and is not a school-sanctioned or supervised event.

Opening the Servery/Cafeteria for Same-day Purchases

We are excited to let you know that we are working with Chartwells Food to move to a more traditional model for purchasing breakfast, lunch, and after-school snacks in mid-to-late January. Currently, we are in the consultation stage with students on the food that will be available for purchase, and we are beginning to plan for the operational changes necessary within the servery space. Please stay tuned to our upcoming Blog entries for additional updates.

Junior School Vaccine Information Webinar Recording

On November 17, our Junior School families were invited to attend an information webinar related to COVID-19 vaccinations for children aged 5-11 years old, featuring Dr. Sheana Desson, Family Physician, Havergal Class of ‘95, and Havergal JS parent. If you would like to view the recording, please visit this LINK.

Reminders

Visitors to Campus

All visitors will be required to complete a wellness screening and provide proof of vaccination and valid photo identification (including name and date of birth).  

Visitors may enter the College for the reasons below:

  1. A scheduled appointment – If you have been invited on campus for a meeting, upon arrival you will need to check in with security, complete a wellness screening, and show proof of vaccination (with valid ID).
  2. Athletics event – If you are attending athletics you will need to check in at the Athletic Centre doors by completing an online Wellness screening and show proof of vaccination (with ID).  Please note that spectators are permitted into the building a maximum of 30 min before the athletic event.
  3. Havergal Group Event – If you are attending a Havergal Group event you will receive instructions from your event organizer regarding entry, screening, and proof of vaccination requirements, as they may vary depending on the size of the event.

Resources

New Circles Holiday Angels Program – Last Day!

This coming Monday, November 29th is the last day to contribute to the New Circles Holiday Angels Program, a gift-giving program that serves individuals and families, many of whom are newcomers to Canada. If you would like to contribute, students can bring their gift cards and completed donor tax forms to their Form or Advisory Teacher. 

Gift cards from the following stores would be most appreciated: Walmart, Metro, No Frills, Toys r Us, President’s Choice, Winners, Ikea

You can access a donor tax form here.

Please reach out to Ms. Wowk (awowk@havergal.on.ca) if you have any questions. Thank you so much for your help and support with this initiative.

Please Collect Your Orders at the Green & Gold

There are a number of unclaimed orders in the Green & Gold Shop. Please be aware that December 10 is the last day to collect these items. After that date, any held items will be returned to store stock and student accounts will be credited. If you are unsure as to whether or not you have an outstanding order, please contact Margie Fleming at mfleming@havergal.on.ca.

Dates on the Horizon

Friday, Dec 3: PD Day (no school for students)

Wednesday, Dec 8: Grade 9-12 Band & Strings Performance: 7 pm

Wednesday, Dec 15: Carol Service

Grades 7-10: 2 pm (students only)

Grades 11-12:  7 pm (students & grade 11/12 parents invited)

Dec 16 – Jan 3: (inclusive): School Closed for Christmas Holidays

Thursday, Dec 16: Boarding School closes at noon

Monday, Jan 3: Boarding School opens at 4 pm

Tuesday, Jan 4: Classes Resume for Students

Photos from the Week

Upper School College Blog – Thursday, November 11, 2021

On By Havergal Upper SchoolLeave a comment

Dear Parents,

On Monday, November 8th we held a Remembrance Day service in the Upper School. There were a number of touching performances from the Choir, the Chamber Choir, and the Dance Troupe. 

Dr. Samson asked students to reflect on the sacrifices made in the past and to also take time to connect with their families to talk about how war and conflict may have affected them. She said, “we need to understand on a personal level how war impacts people so that we can ensure that we are actively taking steps in our own lives to promote peace, to promote collaboration, to promote understanding and to promote love.” It was a moving ceremony and we thank all of the participants and contributors. 

The US Blog contains information and updates on the following: 

We wish you a relaxing and rejuvenating midterm November Break. 

Sincerely,

JJ Patterson, Head of Middle School

Deirdre Timusk, Head of Senior School

Latest News

Thrive Week – Nov 22 – 26, 2021

Thrive at HC is both a mindset and a week-long series of events aimed at building a culture of wellbeing within our community and promoting positive mental health for all. Thrive Week (previously known as Mental Health Awareness Week) is taking place from November 22 -26 and is inspired by the “Be There” five golden rules. The “Be There Basics”: Say What you See, Show you Care, Hear Them Out, Know your Role, and Connect to Help, inform our peer support programming. We will explore the power of peer support and how to help when friends might be struggling with their mental health. The daily activities complement and reinforce the five steps and encourage our students to engage in important conversations and reflections about personal and collective mental health, wellbeing, and resilience.

On our opening day, our keynote speaker, Kendra Fisher ’98, will be presenting to the Upper School students. Kendra will share her personal story, her insights, how she overcame her mental health challenges, and chose to build a life of vitality and meaning. She is the founder of MentallyFit, a movement aimed at presenting hope, education, prevention, and a safe place for people struggling with thier own mental health or supporting someone dealing with that issue. Monday through Wednesday, we will have conversations on how to talk about mental health, what impacts our wellbeing, and what we need to do to build resilience. On the final day of Thrive, Gail Whitlow will be joining us remotely from Ohsweken on the Six Nations Reserve. Gail is Mohawk, born into the Bear Clan of the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois). Since she was 25 years old, her life has been dedicated to fostering traditional ceremonies that allow connection to Spirit. In her work, Gail offers many tools to provide holistic healing including drug-free, natural alternatives while considering the many emotional, spiritual, physical and mental aspects of whole health. Other activities throughout the week will stimulate conversations around reducing stigma and sharing stories of hope, strength, and resilience.  

We know that mental health and wellbeing are very individual and that the activities planned for Thrive week may have varying impacts on students. In light of this, we remind students and families of the multiple supports available to them, including but not limited to their Guidance Counsellors, our school Social Worker, the Health Centre, and members of the Wellbeing team. If you have any questions about Thrive Week, please reach out to Dr. Meagan Yarmey, our Director of Wellbeing at myarmey@havergal.on.ca.

Holiday Angels: Gift Card

From November 16 to 29, Havergal College is participating in the New Circles Holiday Angels Program, an anonymous gift-giving program that serves individuals and families, many of whom are newcomers to Canada and face multiple challenges.  Due to COVID-19 restrictions, we will be collecting gift cards that the New Circles team will distribute to recipients in the Program. All gift cards will be collected during Form and Advisory time. 

Gift Cards from the following retailers are preferred:

Walmart, Food Basics, No Frills, Toys r Us, President’s Choice, Winners, Metro, Ikea.


Please contact Anastasia Wowk awowk@havergal.on.ca if you have any questions. Thank you so much for your help and support with this initiative.

Welcoming Visitors to Campus

Beginning November 16, our campus will formally reopen to guests and visitors for certain indoor activities.  In our continued commitment to maintaining a safe learning and working environment for all, the Havergal College Visitor COVID-19 Health and Safety Policy outlines the expectations for all visitors to the campus.  Additionally, the Athletics COVID-19 Spectator Guidelines provide additional guidance to members of the community that wish to support our Havergal Athletes during the winter season. We look forward to welcoming more members of our community on campus in the coming months.

Prayers and Lunch Update

As we continue to navigate a safe return to school we have reviewed how we are able to use shared spaces that align with the Ministry of Education Return to School Plan and enable us to allow more students to attend events in person and gather in common space.

We will have three grades in Prayers each day. This enables us to continue to maintain physical distance between cohorts (grades) while giving more students an in-person Prayers experience.

We will also be opening up the dining room so that all grades have a designated space. Each grade will have tables assigned in the dining room as well as classrooms or other common spaces designated for their grade. We ask the students to please eat only in one of the designated spaces for their grade.

Take Your Kid to Work Day – Virtual Edition

On Wednesday, December 1, during Advisory time, students in grade 9 and 10 will have the opportunity to watch a recording of the “You Belong Here” virtual event sponsored by The Learning Partnership. In this video, students will hear from a range of workplaces and professionals who will share their story of belonging and purpose and elaborate on the real-world skills that have contributed to their success. Afterwards, students will work within their TA groups to focus on one career profile to investigate further, and to identify a particular useful skill set that they would like to work on cultivating this year. 

If your child is taking the careers course here at Havergal, there will be an opportunity for a micro internship later in the year. In addition, Grade 11 and 12 students will have the opportunity to take part in a career fair in the spring.

COP26

Havergal College has an exchange partnership with the George Watson’s School in Edinburgh, Scotland. Our Sustainability Prefect and her council contributed a video segment to a piece that the school put together in order to showcase what schools over the world were doing to help create a more sustainable community. Here is a link to the video that was created.

Reminders

School Photographs

  • This is a reminder for parents to purchase student photos online at the following LINK. 
  • The password required is your child’s student identification number.

Should you require further assistance please email the photographer, Cameron Hubbs, at: cameron@echophotography.ca.

Cold and Flu Season

In an ongoing effort to keep all members of our community in good health, we thank you for keeping your child at home if they are unwell.

Dates on the Horizon

Nov 11: PD Day (no classes for students)

Nov 12 – 15 (inclusive): Mid-Term November Break school closed

Nov 16: Winter Athletics Tryouts Begin

Dec 3: PD Day (no classes for students)

Dec 16 – Jan 3 (inclusive): Christmas Break school closed