Message from Admissions

Maggie Houston-White, Executive Director of Strategic Enrolment Management, and Emily Simms-Brown, Director of Admission

As we gear up for 蜜桃视频鈥檚 beloved Spirit Week, the halls are buzzing with students coming together as a whole grade to plan their cheers, which will show their spirit as they represent their cohort at the activities planned by the student leaders. This week is deliberately set in February, when the bright sunny days of spring can feel a bit of a long way off. Spirit Week is a great way for our students to come together as a community, demonstrate their House and school spirit and support all of our wellbeing with some fun.

As you will read in this edition of 蜜桃视频 Highlights, our students are always challenging themselves 鈥� in the classroom, on the stage, on the ice or on the playing field 鈥� and developing real world skills that will prepare them for life beyond the ivy. They work hard and, as you will no doubt see on our social media in the coming weeks, they know how to play hard, too.   

We are also aware of the excitement that is building for families as Offer Day draws near. All families will be hearing from 蜜桃视频 on Friday, February 20 and acceptances are due back on Wednesday, February 25. We appreciate all of the time and effort our applicant families have put into this process. The caliber of candidates and their families have been outstanding. We know the future is a bright one.

Sincerely, 

Maggie & Emily

Message from the Dean of Academics

Lam Nguyen

At 蜜桃视频, being 鈥渇uture ready鈥� is more than a strategic pillar; it is a commitment to ensuring that our students will meet an ever-changing world with the confidence and skills needed to thrive. As we navigate the arrival of Generative AI, it has become increasingly important to lean into human values and a foundation that enables students to learn new skills for many possible futures. 

Being in my first year at 蜜桃视频, I have made it a point to visit classrooms from JK to Grade 12, and I am continually inspired by what I have seen. Students are active participants in their learning; they are curious, ask questions and strive to understand concepts deeply. Teachers work diligently to ensure that each student is seen and can be her best self within a collaborative learning community. 

In these classroom environments, students develop the future-ready skills that will empower them on their lifelong learning journey. Whether they are exploring the moon鈥檚 surface through a lunar mission in Grade 6 or having a deep Harkness-method discussion in the Upper School, students are consistently expected to think critically, test their ideas and receive feedback that deepens their understanding of themselves, others and the world around them. 

At 蜜桃视频, being adaptable to tomorrow’s emerging needs is more than just covering content. Teachers work to design classroom experiences that centre the essential learning of different disciplines. The essence of mathematics is not only about solving equations; it is about the logic that bridges our intuitions to universal truth. Languages are not only about syntax and grammar; they are about how we communicate complex ideas. 

Through the development of future-ready skills like collaboration, critical thinking and adaptability, and a focus on essential learning, students are well prepared for a life of contribution and purpose. A resilient graduate is A Difference Maker who views uncertainty as an invitation. She leaves 蜜桃视频 not just ready to enter the world, but ready to shape it.  

Mr. Nguyen

Nurturing Emotional Intelligence: The Journey with RULER

Kate White, Head of Junior School

As the 蜜桃视频 Junior School enters its third year of implementing RULER 鈥� a systemic approach to social and emotional learning (SEL) developed at the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence 鈥� it is essential to recognize that this work is about more than just 鈥渇eelings;鈥� it is a strategic foundation to lead a life of purpose and the drive to make a difference.

The implementation process began by prioritizing the faculty, dedicating the first year to adult development so teachers could model these skills. Over the past two years, our focus has shifted to the students. Each homeroom class has worked with their teachers to develop a Class Charter, which acts to build and sustain a positive emotional climate by creating agreed-upon norms for how people want to feel and how they can help each other to experience those feelings. Secondly, they have all been learning about the Mood Meter, which is a tool that aims to increase students鈥� self- and social awareness and supports the development of a nuanced emotion vocabulary and a range of strategies for regulating emotion.

Moving forward, we will be introducing the Meta-Moment, a process that helps students pause in moments of challenge and then imagine what their 鈥渂est self鈥� could do to solve the problem or to help improve the situation. In addition, we will be holding a series of parent workshops to help educate families on the RULER approach, and to strengthen the partnership between home and school. 

As 蜜桃视频 continues to weave social and emotional learning into the culture of the Junior School, this next phase marks an exciting evolution. By aligning our strategies across the classroom and the living room, we aspire to foster an environment where students feel understood, validated and capable. This collective commitment to emotional intelligence paves the way for our learners to develop the lifelong skills required to understand themselves, connect with others and thrive in a complex world.

Ready, Set, Hire!

Anne-Marie Miki, Guidance Counsellor

The Guidance Department and Human Resources have teamed up for a second year to present a series of workshops and one-on-one sessions to help Grade 12 students prepare to enter the workforce. These Ready, Set, Hire workshops include tips on how to write a strong resume, suggestions to help perform well on interviews and advice on the job search. Additionally, students have unique access to our Human Resources team, where they can book one-on-one meetings to have their resumes reviewed by professionals.

Our first successful session on interview skills took place in the fall and in January we offered a presentation by HR to all Grade 12 students on the application and job search. 蜜桃视频 will offer additional consultations this spring, open to both Grade 11 and 12 students.

鈥淲e enjoyed sharing our career skills knowledge with the Grade 12 students,鈥� said Ms. Stephanie Houghton, Human Resources Manager. 鈥淲e hope the tips and suggestions help them feel more confident in their job searches both now and in the future.鈥� Adding to this, Human Resources Business Partner Ms. Marie Limbo explains how the program is meant to build confidence, strengthen resumes and get students interview-ready for future employment. 

Ready, Set, Hire will be expanding into younger grades, offering additional sessions during morning programming time. This will include speaking to Grade 10 students about finding volunteer opportunities and getting Grade 11 students started with resume writing and interview success. 

This program has already been well-received by students. Our School Captain, Naomi McDonald, shared this feedback: 鈥淎fter meeting with Ms. Houghton, my resume writing skills have drastically improved. Hearing from a professional who has gone through hundreds of resumes throughout her career was a truly invaluable experience. Her guidance strengthened my resume and left me feeling more confident and future ready.鈥�

A Night of Music at Koerner Hall

Save the Date: Tuesday, March 3, 7 pm

Please join us at 7 pm on Tuesday, March 3, for a very special evening of music as we take the leap into the world of professional musicianship at Koerner Hall. We are moving our Spring Music Night to this remarkable venue, providing an opportunity for our US students to perform in the most acoustically refined hall in the country. We will be joined by a host of special guests. All are welcome.

Tickets are free and can be secured through the. They will be available for pick-up the day of the event and are only guaranteed until 10 minutes prior to the posted start time of the show, at which time tickets are re-distributed to other waiting patrons. 

Koerner Hall at the Royal Conservatory of Music is at .

For additional information please contact Matthew Varey, Director of Arts.

Join Us for Clue (High School Version)

Presented in the Legacy Theatre on February 25 to 27

If you love classic mystery, outrageous comedy and razor-sharp banter, then you won鈥檛 want to miss our Senior School Play: Clue (High School Version). Our campy and fast-paced show follows our iconically quirky characters as they unravel the mysteries of the evening where nothing is quite as it seems and everyone has something to hide. The cast and crew of more than 40 students have all been working hard to transform the Legacy Theatre into a real-life board game. Against the backdrop of our bright and hand-sketched set design, the combination of high energy and playful live music will deliver non-stop suspense and laughter. 

Performances run February 25 to 27 at 7 pm in the Legacy Theatre. For tickets, contact the Admissions Department at admissions@havergal.on.ca. We can鈥檛 wait to see you there!

Faculty and Staff Gifting and Appreciation

Thanking Our Parents!

The 蜜桃视频 Parents Association (HCPA) sent out a heartfelt thank-you recently to all the families who generously contributed to the Faculty and Staff Gifting collection. The HCPA raised $54,245, which allowed them to distribute EverythingCards (gift cards that gave staff a choice of stores) to all 253 faculty and staff members. The remaining funds will be used for year-end gifts and an appreciation party for faculty and staff, scheduled for May 2026.

Here is a聽聽of appreciation we received from HC staff and faculty. They were thrilled to receive these gifts!

Pre-loved Uniforms Sale

Wednesday, February 4

The Pre-Loved Uniform team will host a mid-year sale on Wednesday, February 4, from 2:30 to 5 pm in the Junior School Learning Hub hallway and invite you to stop by to stock up on uniform items.

We are always looking for volunteers to help with our sales. Please sign up  to help, or contact us at hcpapreloveduniform@gmail.com.

Purchasing second-hand pieces helps reduce our carbon footprint while raising funds for HCPA initiatives. We sell and accept donations of second-hand skirts, tunics, pants, polo shirts, dress shirts, sweaters, 1/4 zip sweatshirts, jogging pants and blazers. Please note we do not accept socks, green leggings, customized sweatshirts, spirit wear or white Grad blazers.

HCPA Marketplace

Wednesday, February 4

The HCPA Marketplace team will be selling inventory on Wednesday, February 4, from 2:30 to 5 pm in the Junior School Learning Hub hallway. Drop by and grab your HCPA swag for 2026! A limited number of frames and white Patagonia-style fleeces are still available for purchase. 

We鈥檇 like to thank everyone who purchased festive items over the holidays and hope you had a joyful season. Top picks from 2025 included the cozy HC green & white fleece sweatshirt, comfy spirit sweatpants, stylish Yeti cups and charming wooden holiday ornaments.

You can also shop online anytime at the . Every purchase not only helps you show your HC pride but also supports programs and initiatives that enrich the 蜜桃视频 community. Don鈥檛 miss your chance to pick up your favourite items today!

Gator Gala

Saturday, March 28

The HCPA invites Senior and Middle School students and one adult guest (parent or guardian) to HAVERGAL & CO., the 2026 Gator Gala, on Saturday, March 28, from 6 to 11:30 pm at . This annual HCPA tradition brings our community together for an elegant evening of dining, dancing and connection. Inspired by timeless charm and iconic Tiffany Blue sparkle, the night sets the stage for meaningful memories and shared celebration. Guests will enjoy a delicious meal, signature drinks, dancing, a photo booth and a few delightful surprises.

We are now accepting donations for The Gator Gala Silent Auction. All proceeds will support HC鈥檚  campaign. Use this  to donate to the silent auction, or connect with Jenn Ocampo-King at JenniferOcampo.King@tdsecurities.com for more information.

Junior and Upper School Bake Sales

Wednesday, February 11

The HCPA Bake Sale Committee is hosting their second bake sale on Wednesday, February 11.

Donations can be homemade or store-bought; all contributions are welcome! Upper School students and parents can purchase goodies with cash, credit or debit, while Junior School students are encouraged to bring up to $10 cash. Thank you for supporting the HCPA Bake Sale and The Bake Shop. Your contributions help create fun, delicious and community-focused events for all while raising funds for HC鈥檚 !

Miranda Kus

Junior School Mathematics Coordinator

Ms. Kus joined 蜜桃视频 in 2022 as the Junior School Math Coordinator. In this role, she is responsible for ensuring that the foundation of student learning in mathematics is strong, flexible and engaging. She is committed to creating opportunities for students to explore mathematics in meaningful ways that build connections to the real world and everyday life. Working closely with educators, Ms. Kus supports the development of learning experiences that strengthen foundational skills while fostering critical thinking, communication and flexibility through authentic, purposeful tasks. These experiences encourage students to collaborate, ask questions and develop a deeper understanding of how mathematics is relevant beyond the classroom.

Ms. Kus brings 20 years of experience in education and has dedicated the past 15 years to the study of teaching and learning mathematics with students and teachers. Prior to joining 蜜桃视频, she worked with the Toronto Catholic District School Board as both an educator and a math consultant. She also spent time at Pearson Canada, where she researched, designed and created mathematics resources with educators across Canada. She holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of Windsor, a Bachelor and Master of Education degrees from Brock University and a Specialist in Mathematics from York University. This diverse professional background allows her to bring a rich perspective to mathematics teaching and learning at 蜜桃视频.

Outside of school, Ms. Kus enjoys walking her dog, Atlas, exploring new restaurants around the city and travelling to new destinations.

Message from the Admissions Prefects

Elle and Audrea

It鈥檚 hard to capture just how much being the Admissions Prefects means to us in a short statement when there鈥檚 simply so much to love about this role. When we reflect on what stands out most, one thing always comes to mind: the community. Whether it鈥檚 the Prefect team supporting us at Admissions events, the incredible Old Girl/Alum network or meeting excited applicants and their families, every connection reminds us that we all share one thing in common: a genuine love for this remarkable school.听

What makes the 蜜桃视频 community truly special goes far beyond Admissions events and school gatherings. It鈥檚 in the small, everyday moments; the smile you exchange with a fellow student in the grocery store, or when an Old Girl/Alum stops you on the street because they recognize the classic green and gold uniform. 蜜桃视频 is all around us and that constant sense of connection is what makes being Admissions Prefects so meaningful to us. Knowing that we help welcome new students into this incredible community that lasts forever fills us with pride and gratitude.听

As seniors, we know 蜜桃视频 has prepared us not just to take our next steps, but also to thrive in the world beyond these walls. As leaders in this school, we have grown to be fearless and to believe that anything is possible. The thought of leaving what has become our second home is bittersweet, but we鈥檒l carry the memories, friendships and spirit of 蜜桃视频 with us for the rest of our lives, far beyond the ivy walls.听

Message from the Deputy Principal

Ms. Lindsay Norberg

At 蜜桃视频, a central focus of education is preparing young women to make a difference in the world, guided by the school鈥檚 Portrait of a Grad: 蜜桃视频 Difference Maker. This goal is not just about academic success; it鈥檚 about developing students who understand themselves and others, are continually learning and growing, and are inspired to contribute positively.

Digital Citizenship at 蜜桃视频 is directly aligned with this mission. Fostering Digital Citizenship is about cultivating 鈥淒igital Wisdom鈥� to enable students to thrive ethically in a technology-dense world. The emergence of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) continues to significantly transform many aspects of work, daily life and education. 蜜桃视频鈥檚 goal is to empower faculty and staff to have the agency and skills to engage with GAI technologies thoughtfully and responsibly. 

Last week, I had the pleasure of visiting the Grade 5 classes as they began their Digital Wisdom course. Students were hard at work designing apps, reflecting on their values and deciding what they would want the key design feature to be. The class had considered different technologies and how they had impacted societies, discussing fire as an example. They explored how fire shifted the way societies worked, how people had to learn to use it safely, how they could benefit from it and how to control it wisely. Drawing on Marc Prensky鈥檚 concept of 鈥渇ire wisdom,鈥� the students recognized the importance of using powerful tools responsibly. They quickly made the connection between this idea and the work they were doing to develop their own digital wisdom.

Our work on Digital Citizenship is aligned with our goals for HC students. This means helping students identify ways to anchor their decisions in their values, remaining curious and open in order to adapt to a changing world and being committed to pursuing real-world challenges and believing they can have a positive impact. 

Ms. Norberg

Building Digital Citizenship

Adam Caplan, HC-X Director

What does it mean to grow up in a world where our lives are increasingly shaped by algorithms, screens and digital identities? 

In our Digital Wisdom (DW) course, students in Grades 5 to 8 have the opportunity to investigate this question through the lenses of their own values and perspectives. 

For a girl in her early adolescent years, DW looks like investigating the motivations behind her favourite digital platforms and pastimes. DW sounds like explaining how her online behaviour meets Artificial-Intelligence-driven content algorithms to shape her thoughts, feelings and sense of reality. DW feels like developing skills to interpret how digital screentime shapes overall wellbeing.

This course equips girls to navigate that intersection of identity, relationships and technology at a crucial developmental age. That鈥檚 really key for them because their social worlds and sense of self are developing so much during these years.

Digital Wisdom 鈥� now in its sixth year 鈥� emerged from a big-picture vision of preparing students for a BANI world 鈥� one that is becoming increasingly Brittle, Anxious, Non-linear and Incomprehensible. Rather than focus solely on device rules or online safety, Digital Wisdom students develop the confidence, curiosity and integrity to identify important technology-mediated relationships in their lives and learn to align their actions with their values. 

To support this learning, HC-X Educators and Digital Wisdom teachers use responsive approaches to treat emojis, brainrot, AI slop and 鈥�6-7鈥� as stepping-off points to help students surface questions, interrogate their assumptions and explore the deeper connections between technology, identity, creativity and community.

The AP Capstone Program at 蜜桃视频

Lam Nguyen, Dean of Academics and Jennifer Goldberg, Director of Academics

Advanced Placement (AP) is an enriched program designed by the  and offered at schools around the world. 蜜桃视频 has long offered AP courses as a part of its robust academic program. AP courses enable students to learn university-level content in a supportive and relational high school environment.

The latest addition to the AP offerings at 蜜桃视频 is the AP Capstone program. This two-year diploma program complements the academic experience by building skills in research, analysis, evidence-based arguments and collaboration. These are essential skills for success in post-secondary education. The diploma requires two year-long courses, AP Seminar and AP Research, and at least four additional AP courses. 

Led by a team of passionate and experienced educators as well as dedicated students, the AP Capstone Diploma has seen significant growth and success over the past five years since its inception in 2019, growing in enrolment each year. AP Research students work closely with both faculty advisors and professionals in the field to conduct studies in their areas of interest. Past research projects range from a scientific examination of cancer in plasma cells to a study on the impact of narratives and climate change. In 2025, 蜜桃视频 reached its highest enrolment in these courses with nearly half of the entire Grade 11 class having elected to take AP Seminar this school year. 蜜桃视频 students have consistently earned results that exceed both the provincial and global averages.

蜜桃视频 AP Results Comparison

2025 Averages (AP scores 1-5)	AP Research	AP Seminar
Global	3.44	3.17
Ontario	4.04	3.81
蜜桃视频	4.55	4.12

Celebration Day and Friday Night Lights

Thank You

Friday, September 26 was a memorable day as Celebration Day and Friday Night Lights united students, families, Old Girls/Alums, staff and faculty in a lively celebration of community spirit and embodiment of our mission. From games and tasty treats to inflatables, a bustling bazaar, a silent auction and live performances, the day was full of excitement.

We want to extend our deepest gratitude to the more than 104 parent volunteers who went above and beyond to bring these events to life! Whether you were prepping tickets, pricing and purchasing concession items, running the Preloved Uniform and Marketplace sales, managing the BBQ and drink lines, supporting registration, selling popcorn and candyfloss or simply bringing your enthusiasm and warmth, you played a crucial role in making the day unforgettable.

Your commitment, energy and presence were truly felt and appreciated by everyone involved. We couldn鈥檛 have done it without you!

With heartfelt thanks,

HC and the HCPA

Paul Shuebrook

Manager, Digital Services Training

Mr. Shuebrook is 蜜桃视频鈥檚 Manager of Digital Services Training. He is responsible for designing and delivering in-person, blended and online learning experiences relating to essential digital tools for faculty, staff and students. He also provides critical analysis, recommendation, implementation and administration services for new school-wide teaching and learning technologies.

In his role, he collaborates closely with teachers, coordinators and department heads, as well as with members of the Senior Leadership Team. You are just as likely to find him assisting students and teachers with Canvas LMS in a classroom, meeting with Heads of School about how to make new student tech orientation sessions more effective, or working with his team designing new AI training experiences for staff.  

With a background in musical composition and over 20 years of experience as an education technologist, Mr. Shuebrook takes a creative approach to building trusting relationships with students and colleagues as the foundation for collaborative work and meaningful learning. Supervising student clubs and excursions, acting in school plays and performing in Prayers are just some of the ways Mr. Shuebrook engages with the vibrant 蜜桃视频 community that he values so deeply. He holds a Master of Educational Technology degree from the University of British Columbia and a Master of Music from McGill University. 

Message from Admissions

Maggie Houston-White, Executive Director of Strategic Enrolment Management, and Emily Simms-Brown, Director of Admission

The start of a new school year at 蜜桃视频 has been filled with joy, energy and community. From Celebration Day and our very first Friday Night Lights, to prospective family visits and campus tours, it has been wonderful to see our school alive with connection. Each event is a reminder of what makes 蜜桃视频 unique: a strong community rooted in tradition, while always looking ahead to prepare our students to make a difference in the world.

In this first edition of 蜜桃视频 Highlights, you鈥檒l find stories that highlight the connections that strengthen our community and the many ways we live our mission. We hope you enjoy reading them as much as we enjoyed bringing them to life.

Tomorrow, we鈥檒l gather for another cherished tradition, the Junior School Harvest Festival, where our youngest students perform songs for their families and collect donations for the North York Harvest Food Bank. Traditions like these ground us in what matters most, while inspiring us to innovate and add programming that ensures our students are ready for the future.

As you continue exploring 蜜桃视频, please know our Admission Team is here to answer your questions, connect with you and support your family in finding the right school for your daughter. We look forward to getting to know you in the months ahead.

Best wishes, 

Maggie Houston-White & Emily Simms-Brown

Message from the Principal

Dr. Katrina Samson

We鈥檝e had a fantastic start to the school year, and I want to thank our students, faculty, staff and parents for helping make the transition back a smooth and positive one. Your energy, care and commitment set the tone for a positive year ahead.

At 蜜桃视频, compassion is one of our core values 鈥� it鈥檚 something we actively live and teach. As a school dedicated to inspiring young women to make a difference, we believe that empathy, kindness and action are foundational to leadership and learning.

In our classrooms, compassion shows up in meaningful ways 鈥� through open conversations, collaboration and a deep commitment to understanding others. Our students are encouraged to lead with empathy and to recognize that how we treat one another is just as important as what we achieve.

This commitment is especially evident during Celebration Day, when our entire community comes together to support our Community Partners. It鈥檚 a powerful expression of what it means to care beyond ourselves. Our students learn how their voices, ideas and efforts have a direct impact on others 鈥� and they gain a deeper understanding of their role in the broader community. Thank you to all who joined us for Celebration Day. Your support enables our Community Partnerships to thrive and have an impact in our local community.

It鈥檚 hard to believe we are approaching Thanksgiving here in Canada. This season calls us to reflect with gratitude and act with generosity. Whether it鈥檚 through service initiatives, community engagement efforts or simply reaching out to someone in need, our students and staff continue to find ways to live our values in thoughtful and meaningful ways.

Compassion is not just something we value at 蜜桃视频 鈥� it鈥檚 something we practise. Every day, in big and small ways, our community is showing what it means to truly care.

With gratitude,

Katrina Samson

Compassion and Connection at Celebration Day

Fatima Kaba, Interim Director of the Forum for Change

From Cookiegrams to bouncy castles, haunted houses and even cornhole, Celebration Day is always full of energy, excitement and activities for everyone to enjoy. But beyond the fun, this annual event plays an important role in supporting our Community Partnerships.

Through these partnerships, students engage with local organizations in ways that allow them to learn, serve and grow. For example, at Art City and Grenoble Public School, our students spend time each week supporting younger youth by helping with homework, leading art activities and learning from each other. These experiences not only benefit the children in these communities, but also help 蜜桃视频 students develop empathy, patience and leadership skills. Students also learn about how communities can support one another through initiatives we engage with at North York Harvest Food Bank and New Circles, where the focus is on honouring dignity and ensuring that everyone has access to what they need in respectful and empowering ways.

Celebration Day makes all of this work possible. By focusing our fundraising efforts into this single, joyful event, we can sustain our partnerships throughout the year without relying on multiple fundraisers. Families, students and Old Girls/Alums come together to celebrate the start of the year, knowing that the fun they鈥檙e having 鈥� whether playing games, enjoying delicious food or tackling a Spike Ball challenge 鈥� is directly supporting meaningful programs in the community.

In the end, Celebration Day is more than just a day of fun. It鈥檚 a chance to see how our school values of courage, compassion, integrity and inquiry come to life. It shows students that making a difference can be joyful, collaborative and impactful 鈥� not just for the Community Partners we support, but also for the students themselves as they grow into young women ready to lead and make a difference.

Thank you to everyone who made this year鈥檚 Celebration Day such a tremendous success!

Thrive Days: Building a Culture of Care and Compassion

-Liz Watt, Assistant Head of Junior School
-Caitlin Parsons, Registered Social Worker
-Kirsten Uhre, Director of Guidance (Grades 7鈥�9) and Upper School Learning Support (Grades 7鈥�12)

At 蜜桃视频, care and compassion are at the heart of who we are. Thrive Days, held once a month, provide intentional opportunities to pause, reflect and prioritize wellbeing. By weaving programming throughout the school year, Thrive Days embed wellbeing into the daily rhythm of school life, ensuring it becomes a consistent practice rather than a one-time event.

Across all grade levels, Thrive Days invite students to consider what it means to care for themselves, support others and contribute to a healthy community. In the Junior School, this is expressed through hands-on, student-led activities that help equip students with the tools to manage emotions and cope with the challenges that come their way. In the Upper School, Thrive Days are led by the Wellbeing Prefect and Council, engaging students in activities, discussions and initiatives to reduce mental health stigma and promote wellbeing across all domains 鈥� emotional, social, physical, spiritual and academic.

Rooted in 蜜桃视频鈥檚 Wellbeing Framework 鈥� Care for Self, Care for Others and Care for Community 鈥� Thrive Days underscore that wellbeing is both a shared responsibility and a defining part of the 蜜桃视频 experience. They reaffirm our commitment to fostering a compassionate environment where every student feels supported, valued and empowered to thrive.

Celebrating Generosity Across Generations

Kate Crokam, Executive Director of Advancement

蜜桃视频 Old Girls/Alums have long upheld a tradition of giving back through their care, expertise and generosity. Their support is an investment in the next generation of women, creating opportunities for young women to explore, learn and grow through a 蜜桃视频 education.

This year鈥檚 Reunion Giving Challenge set a new record for participation, with Old Girls/Alums coming together in an extraordinary show of generosity. Each contribution, whether from a familiar supporter or a first-time giver, reflects women lifting each other up and ensures the next generation has the same opportunities and experiences that shaped these remarkable Old Girls/Alums.

We are excited to celebrate our winning classes. The Class of 1970 were leaders in participation, while the Class of 1975 set a new standard for total giving. The Class of 2005 joined our group of winners with a standout, transformational gift that underscores the incredible impact a single act of generosity can have on the wider community.

What made this challenge so meaningful was not only the friendly competition, but also the way it highlighted the Old Girl/Alum community鈥檚 steadfast generosity. These gifts reflect a shared purpose: ensuring that young women today and for generations to come benefit from the educational experiences, programs and opportunities that 蜜桃视频 provides.

The Reunion Giving Challenge is a powerful reminder that the legacy of women supporting women is at the heart of 蜜桃视频. Generations of Old Girls/Alums have carried forward the care, values and commitment they experienced at 蜜桃视频, creating a ripple effect that empowers, inspires and transforms. This enduring tradition ensures that 蜜桃视频 continues to flourish and that opportunities for young women grow stronger, year after year.

Parent Volunteers at the Heart of 蜜桃视频

In partnership with the HCPA, 蜜桃视频 hosted a successful Celebration Day on Friday, September 26! Highlights of this event 鈥� a favourite tradition for many 鈥� included grade-specific games, a bazaar, a silent auction and friendly competition, with proceeds going to our Community Partnerships. 

Later that evening, the HCPA continued to support the school by running the concession stand at 蜜桃视频鈥檚 first Friday Night Lights event, which was an exciting soccer match against Branksome Hall with the Gators taking home the win! 

Our parent volunteers have been busy this fall hosting a number of events to support the community, including the Pre-Loved Uniform Sale and HCPA Marketplace, with all proceeds supporting 蜜桃视频鈥檚 campaign.

Thank you to all of our parent volunteers for helping to make these events a success for our community!

Krista Koekkoek

Head of Upper School

As 蜜桃视频鈥檚 new Head of Upper School, Ms. Koekkoek is responsible for ensuring a Grade 7 to 12 experience that is engaging, challenging and centres your exceptional daughters in an environment where she feels she belongs, is valued and can contribute. To do so, she collaborates with the Senior Leadership Team and partners with the Heads of the Middle, Senior and Boarding Schools 鈥� as well as the Student Support Team, co-curricular directors and Upper School faculty.

Ms. Koekkoek believes that healthy schools nurture purpose in both students and educators. When individuals can be themselves and make decisions that align with their values, it brings out the best in them and our community. Since arriving at 蜜桃视频, she has prioritized this type of learning for all. She believes that young women who know themselves and others, who continually learn and grow and who are inspired to act are well prepared to be the difference makers in the world 鈥� the school鈥檚 mission. Ms. Koekkoek values the dynamic teams in the Upper School that she partners with and their commitment to vision alignment, research and depth and breadth of programming. Our focus is on the healthy academic and social development of students. 

With over 20 years of experience in independent schools, including more than 15 years in leadership, Ms. Koekkoek brings a wealth of knowledge to 蜜桃视频. She holds a Master of Education from OISE/UT and both her Bachelor of Education and Bachelor of Arts in French and History from Queen鈥檚 University. She has also been a registered psychotherapist and a recent graduate of the Canadian Association of Independent Schools鈥� (CAIS) LeAD program. With a passion for girls鈥� education, she is dedicated to cultivating a community where belonging is paramount and engagement stems from authentic shared experiences.

Message from Admissions

Maggie Houston-White, Executive Director of Strategic Enrolment Management, and Emily Simms-Brown, Director of Admission

As we gear up for 蜜桃视频鈥檚 beloved Spirit Week, the halls are buzzing with students coming together as a whole grade to plan their cheers, which will show their spirit as they represent their cohort at the activities planned by the student leaders. This week is deliberately set in February, when the bright sunny days of spring can feel a bit of a long way off. Spirit Week is a great way for our students to come together as a community, demonstrate their House and school spirit and support all of our wellbeing with some fun. Our commitment to Wellbeing is a critical pillar of our strategic plan “,” which you can read about in this issue of 蜜桃视频 Highlights.听

We are also aware of the excitement that is building for families as Offer Day draws near. All families will be hearing from 蜜桃视频 on Friday, February 21 and acceptances are due back on Wednesday, February 26. We appreciate all of the time and effort our applicant families have put into this process. The caliber of candidates and their families have been outstanding. We know the future is a bright one. 

Sincerely, 

Maggie & Emily

Enacting Our Commitment to Wellbeing

Krista Koekkoek, Vice Principal of Student Life & Wellbeing

The message of prioritizing wellbeing is everywhere. You can鈥檛 listen to a podcast, scroll your social media or roam a bookstore without words about prioritizing self-care or putting yourself first. And to what end? It鈥檚 a challenging time to consider what it means to be well. 

I read a piece this year by Dr. Tracy Dennis Tiwary, a researcher and professor in psychology and neuroscience at City University in New York. In it, she confirms that we now know more about mental health and wellbeing than at any other point in history. We have more strategies, tactics, support people and self-help books than ever before. 

Yet, rather than have less 鈥渦nwell鈥� in the world, we seem to be experiencing increasingly more. And despite what some will say, there actually is no single cause for it. Not our phones. Not our social media. Not our lack of getting out for a run this morning or having protein in our shakes.

There is not one thing that has single-handedly hurt our wellbeing. 

Dr. Tiwary wonders鈥攁nd so do I鈥攊f we have all tried to pursue 鈥榯oo much鈥� when it comes to our mental health. Are we overdoing it when it comes to figuring out how to feel okay in the world? Is there just too much pressure to live our best life?

What if we reminded ourselves and taught our girls that we are enough?

I am going to say that again. We are enough. Right now, in this current moment, we are all we need to be.

And we need you. We need your daughters. The world needs your daughters just as they are. Not fixed. Not perfect. Not changed. Not self-helped out.

They are enough.

What if wellbeing is not a task or an item on a checklist but a way of being? Enter 蜜桃视频鈥檚 . A commitment that puts strengths and growth, compassion, self-awareness and living a values-aligned life at the centre of its priorities. It鈥檚 not a task, but a way of being.

So we commit at 蜜桃视频 to not touting the latest trends in 鈥渉appiness,鈥� but rather preparing young women for the inevitable ups and downs of life, and having the confidence to authentically be their whole selves, setting the boundaries they need to feel fulfilled, contributing to something greater than themselves, with a curiosity for learning and growing.

Krista

Thriving Together鈥擭urturing Wellbeing in the Junior School

Junior School Head Kate White and Assistant Head Liz Watt

The wellbeing of our students is at the heart of everything we do at 蜜桃视频. Why? Because we know that a healthy and fulfilled child is better equipped to learn, grow and thrive. When students feel safe, supported and valued, they are more engaged in their academic work and develop the confidence to take on new challenges. Prioritizing wellbeing also strengthens their social-emotional skills, such as empathy, resilience and teamwork, which are essential for building strong relationships and navigating life鈥檚 ups and downs. In order for this to happen, students need to develop a toolkit of strategies that they can use not only now, but also in the future. 

This year, we shifted from having a 鈥淭hrive Week鈥� early in the year, to having a series of 鈥淭hrive Days鈥� throughout the year, where we have introduced our students to a variety of tools they can use and practise. The purpose of these days is to:

On Thrive Days, all members of the Junior School community, including teachers, take part in a variety of activities aimed at exploring new tools for their wellbeing toolkit. While we recognize that not every strategy works for everyone, our goal is to offer an opportunity for individuals to try new approaches, refresh their resources and swap out what no longer serves them. Many of these tools are inspired by student suggestions on what has been most effective for them, and several students actively contribute by leading Thrive activity sessions. Some examples of activities include cosmic yoga, mindful colouring, guided meditation, gratitude sessions, beading, chalk colouring with music, origami, exercise classes and more!

We believe that fostering wellbeing is not a one-time effort but an ongoing journey. By embedding practices that prioritize mental, emotional and social health into our everyday lives鈥攅specially through initiatives like Thrive Days鈥攚e are creating a culture where students feel safe to explore, experiment and build the skills they need to flourish. 

A Holistic Approach to Wellbeing in Grades 7 to 9

Kirsten Uhre, Director of Guidance, Student Support & Wellbeing

Our Grade 7 to 9 Guidance Team is dedicated to fostering student wellbeing as a foundation for academic success. Grounded in research and driven by a holistic approach, the team鈥攎ade up of Ms. Winograd, Ms. Steele and Ms. Randall鈥攑rovide specialized, comprehensive support through one-to-one meetings, Form activities and grade-wide sessions. Topics discussed by this passionate team of experts include time management, study skills, friendships, co-curricular activities, mental health and academic planning.

Developmentally appropriate, specialized support is tailored to the unique needs of each grade cohort. Students in Grade 7 are welcomed at the beginning of the year by their Guidance Counsellors via individual meetings, where they are given time and strategies to adjust to the transition into middle school. 

This personalized care continues as students move through Grade 8 alongside their designated counsellor. Time is spent with Grade 8 students exploring their interests and passions through the course selection process. 

The Grade 7 to 9 Guidance Team also runs the First Six Weeks program for new-to-Grade 9 students, which is a unique program at our school. Students who are new to the school meet with their Guidance Counsellor once per week for the first six weeks of school to ensure that they are adjusting well to the demands of high school and connecting with new friends. More specialized academic counselling takes place with Grade 9 students as they continue to explore a variety of interests and course pathways. This work is purposefully designed to enhance and take into account the importance of each student鈥檚 emotional, spiritual and physical wellbeing.

Through their unwavering commitment and thoughtful approach, our Guidance Team plays an integral role in helping ensure students are ready for the opportunities and challenges of the middle years so they can thrive. 

University Counselling at HC

Heather Johnstone Director of Guidance, Academic and University Counselling

We are so fortunate at 蜜桃视频 to have a team of expert Guidance Counsellors dedicated to assisting our Grads in applying to university and supporting their pathways. These Guidance Counsellors have travelled and networked extensively with universities around the globe and bring together 140 years of experience supporting student academic goal setting.

Some highlights include:

We are delighted to share that many of our students have already received early offers to outstanding post-secondary programs.

HCPA Pre-Loved Uniform and Marketplace Sale

Pre-Loved Uniform Sale

The 蜜桃视频 Parents Association (HCPA) hosts Pre-Loved Uniform Sales at different times throughout the year. The next sale is on Wednesday, February 5, from 2 to 5 pm, outside the Junior School Learning Hub. Parents are encouraged to stop by to stock up on extra uniform essentials or to replace lost items.

During the sale, the HCPA will also be accepting donations of pre-loved uniform items that their children have outgrown. Donating and purchasing second-hand items is a great way to reduce our carbon footprint and raise money for the HCPA at the same time.

Items for sale include skirts, tunics, pants, polo shirts, dress shirts, sweaters, 1/4 zip sweatshirts, jogging pants and blazers.

Please note that the HCPA Pre-Loved Uniform initiative is not affiliated with 蜜桃视频鈥檚 Green & Gold Shop.

HCPA Marketplace

The HCPA Marketplace Team sells unique 蜜桃视频 swag, including photo frames, sweaters, bags, cups and more. Shopping is now available online at the , which is open year-round with seasonal updates.

HCPA Bake Sale

蜜桃视频 is fortunate to have a dedicated team of parent volunteers on the HPCA who run community engaging and fundraising events in support of the school. One upcoming event hosted by the HCPA’s Bake Sale Committee is the ever popular Bake Sale on Thursday, February 13, at both the Upper and Junior Schools. Students can choose from a variety of cookies, cupcakes, cake pops, candy kabobs, popcorn, muffins, donuts and more. It’s a great way to end Spirit Week and to celebrate Valentine’s Day while supporting the school’s key initiatives.

Gator Gala

On Saturday, April 5, Middle and Senior School students and their adult guests will enjoy our annual Gator Gala. The evening will feature a delicious meal, dancing and a few fun surprises!

In addition to enjoying dinner and dancing, our guests can also participate in the Gator Gala Silent Auction. The auction offers something for everyone, with all proceeds going to HCPA community engagement initiatives and identified school priorities.

Junior School A-mazing Race

The A-mazing Race is a highlight of the year for our Junior School families鈥攁nd this year will be no different! On Sunday, May 4, students and their partners (an adult over the age of 21) will join us on 蜜桃视频鈥檚 campus (outside, if weather permits) to engage in friendly competition with their House teams. In addition to participating in a series of games and challenges, participants will also enjoy snacks and refreshments, and鈥攎ost importantly鈥攈ave fun while connecting with other members of our JS community. 

Annual Report 2023-24

January brings excitement for a new year, but it is also a time to reflect on our accomplishments from the previous year. One of the things we are proud of from 2023-24 is the generosity shown by our dedicated community, which is the focus of our . The report showcases the incredible philanthropy of our community, spotlights our donors and provides an overview of the past fiscal year. We are very grateful for these significant contributions in support of girls鈥� education and look forward to furthering our work this year and beyond.

Kayla Kanner

Health Centre Manager and Lead Nurse

As the Manager and Lead Nurse of the Health Centre at 蜜桃视频, Ms. Kanner鈥檚 focus is on building a healthy, well community at 蜜桃视频. With 16 years of pediatric nursing experience, including 12 years in neonatal and pediatric critical care and experience teaching nursing students at the university level, she brings specialized care, expertise and compassion to the school environment.

In addition to physical health, mental wellbeing is a priority in her work. Ms. Kanner understands the pressures students face and is available to provide a listening ear, guidance on stress management and support for mental health challenges. She works closely with guidance counsellors, social workers and other staff to ensure a holistic approach to each student鈥檚 wellbeing. Boarding students often face additional challenges being away from home. Whether it鈥檚 helping them navigate homesickness, managing long-term health conditions or simply providing a comforting presence during a difficult time, she ensures they have the care and attention they need to feel safe and supported.

In addition to direct care, Ms. Kanner teaches CPR and First Aid to all faculty members, equipping them with the skills needed to handle emergencies with confidence. 

As a mother of three, promoting a culture of wellbeing is a core value of hers. She encourages both students and staff to prioritize their own health and wellness. She is proud to contribute to creating a healthy, supportive environment at 蜜桃视频.

Message from Admissions

Maggie Houston-White, Executive Director of Strategic Enrolment Management, and Emily Simms-Brown, Director of Admission

November is upon us, wrapping up fall term sports, seeing our first Exchange students of the year head home and celebrating all our students have achieved this term. While the days are a little shorter and a little cooler, there is a sense of anticipation and joy at 蜜桃视频 as students gear up for concerts, our Middle School Play, winter sports and of course, our Junior School and Upper School Carol Services, which are always a highlight.听

Thank you to all of our applicant parents who joined us for our Parents as Partner Series, 鈥淔ostering Purpose in Our Kids,鈥� with Dr. Belle Liang and Tim Klein, authors of . The interactive evening resulted in a lot of great questions and conversations. We hope you enjoyed it as much as we did. We are looking forward to continuing our work with Dr. Liang and Mr. Klein through our year-long partnership in support of our commitment to fostering purpose in students at 蜜桃视频.

Our most recent issue of our parent newsletter, Inside 蜜桃视频, speaks to the work of HC-X, our innovation hub. HC-X plays a key role in supporting our students to be future ready through unique programming and creating professional development opportunities for our faculty that ensure 蜜桃视频 remains a leader in education not just nationally, but globally; not just now, but for years to come.听

We hope you enjoy the latest version of Inside 蜜桃视频 and don鈥檛 forget, our application deadline is December 1, 2024. 

Maggie & Emily

Financial Support Applications for 2025-26

Deadline to Apply: January 3, 2025

Our Finance Department would like to remind applicants that students entering Grades 7 to 12 in September 2025 may apply for Financial Support in the form of a Tuition Bursary.

Separate from any application for admission or re-enrolment, applications are submitted via a third-party company, .

New and returning student families must complete their application by Friday, January 3 each year to be considered for the following school year. Late applications may not be accepted as funds are limited.

Message from the Vice Principal of Experiential Education and Innovation

Garth Nichols

Grounded in research from the educational sector and beyond, HC-X is 蜜桃视频鈥檚 innovation hub. Featuring unique courses and learning experiences, HC-X allows students to practise future-ready skills and faculty to grow from innovative professional development opportunities. 

It is essential that HC-X factors in our mission of preparing young women to make a difference because our world is changing in many ways. You may have read about the V.U.C.A. world (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity) and the forces that are accelerating the speed of innovation. Through courses and programming, HC-X is able to respond in ways that allow us to examine what good preparation for the future looks, sounds and feels like. Our HC-X team is able to research and network within and beyond the educational sector and bring that research into practice with our students; in many ways, we bring the future to our students鈥� doorsteps, providing them with the opportunity to consider the difference they can make in their community and the world around them.

For example, the proprietary course Digital Wisdom allows students to explore their digital world through the lens of anthropology, psychology and sociology. The focus is on identity development in a world shouting at young people about what to be, say and do. 蜜桃视频 students in Grades 5, 6, 7 conduct case studies, self-reflection and experimentation as they consider digital forces. In Grade 7 and 8, they take part in scenario-based learning with a Generative AI platform, Ametros, to interact directly with, and reflect on, GenAI and its role in their own lives.

Another example is the proprietary course TC-9, students are asked to challenge the UN Sustainable Development Goal (UNSDG) #13: Climate Action. Throughout the course, they explore their relationships with the land through a transdisciplinary approach combining science; data science; Indigenous ways of knowing, being and doing; and more. Students meet and network with community leaders and organizations doing great work to challenge #13 and other UNSDGs. Throughout the process, students activate their own agency and practise what it means to make a difference in the world through their own action project.

Our students in Grades 9 to 12 can pursue cutting edge curriculum and learning they are interested in through our Digital Micro-Credentials program.We offer digital microcredentials in pre-med, architecture, law and contemporary finance鈥攚here students explore ESG investments, capital markets and cryptocurrencies.

HC-X is putting our students in the driver鈥檚 seat of their learning, supporting them with resources and networking skills and by introducing them to incredible people, partners and places to broaden their perspectives and experiences to understand, engage with and experience the future. 

Garth

Digital Microcredentials as Experiential Learning Opportunities

Adam Caplan, Director, HC-X

Digital microcredentials are like a good bracelet stack鈥攊t鈥檚 not about the individual bracelets, but how the collection of them shows up. This is how Modern Mentor Rachel Cooke describes the trend of these bite-sized learning experiences. 

Digital microcredentials are bite-sized certifications that offer students new learning pathways to explore their interests and passions. Following a trend emerging in the corporate world of work and learning, microcredentials are increasingly being adopted by educational institutions to prepare students for the future workforce. 

Microcredentials offered through the HC-X, 蜜桃视频鈥檚 Innovation Hub, sit alongside the regular academic curriculum as opt-in experiences. These micro-learning experiences offer a focused approach to skill development in specific areas and provide students with 鈥渟maller denominations of learning鈥� than traditional courses or full academic programs. 

For HC-X, our digital microcredentials also target fields of study not typically covered in existing academic courses. Students have the opportunity to develop their interests in areas such as PreMedical Studies, Artificial Intelligence, Design Thinking & Entrepreneurship and Contemporary Finance鈥攅ach taught in partnership with organizations that bring graduate students from acclaimed institutes as instructors to our participants in Grades 9 to 12. This year, we鈥檙e excited to expand these offerings with two new microcredentials: Intro to Architecture and Future Lawyers, further broadening the array of opportunities for students curious about these dynamic and growing fields.

Microcredentials empower students to explore their interests in a personalized way. Over time, credentials can be 鈥渟tacked鈥� to form a unique narrative of a student鈥檚 interests and accomplishments. They allow students to craft a story of curiosity, dedication and growth across diverse subject areas. Students receive their digital credentials through a blockchain-based digital wallet and can easily share the evidence of their accomplishments with others throughout their education and career journey. 

For more information about HC-X Digital Microcredentials, please contact Adam Caplan or visit .

The Importance of Technology Integration for Young Learners

Paula Carson, JS Technology Coordinator

In the Junior School, we are committed to providing students with opportunities to engage with technology in meaningful ways. Intentional integration of technology supports the development of digital literacy skills, strengthens opportunities for personalized learning experiences, student agency and engagement. It also enhances opportunities for critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity and real-world connections. 

Teachers in the Junior School have been developing new programming to support the development of technology skills, digital literacy and digital creation. One example is in Grade 5 Health and Physical Education, where students recorded videos of themselves practising their dribbling and passing skills during their basketball unit. This activity supports students to self-assess their performance and set goals for improvement. 

Additionally, students are developing their digital creativity skills through projects that enhance content-specific learning in the classroom. In Grade 1, students are documenting signs of the changing seasons through digital photography and poster creation. Meanwhile, Grade 4 students are exploring habitats around the world by designing digital posters to inform others. Looking ahead in the school year, students from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6 will have opportunities to participate in digital escape rooms, movie making, podcasting, robotics, coding and more. 

Classroom discussions and activities about digital citizenship are a vital part of our curriculum. Students learn to differentiate between how devices are used at school and at home, promoting responsible and purposeful use of technology. Throughout the school year, students will learn about online safety, media balance, digital communication and how artificial intelligence works. Students in Grades 4, 5 and 6 are also learning how to utilize digital resources, such as by using Canvas, our learning management system, to access learning resources and submit assignments. 

By integrating technology into our curriculum in intentional and meaningful ways, we aim to create a dynamic and engaging learning environment that prepares our students for the challenges and opportunities in the digital world. 

The HCPA鈥檚 Ivy Market

Get ready to kick off your holiday shopping in style at the HCPA鈥檚 Ivy Market! Join us on Thursday, November 21, from 10 am to 5 pm, where you鈥檒l find a curated selection of local vendors offering unique HC gift items. While you shop, indulge in a complimentary hot beverage at our Holiday Cafe Corner and enjoy festive music performed by our talented student performers. It鈥檚 the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit!

In addition to the Ivy Market, the HCPA will be raising funds by selling Robyn鈥檚 Frozen Cookie Dough and showcasing exciting new items from the HCPA Marketplace team.

We look forward to seeing you on November 21! 

Allison Campbell-Rogers

HC-X Innovation Educator

The HC-X Team at 蜜桃视频 is thrilled to welcome Ms. Campbell-Rogers to our community! She brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in education in Grades 7 to 12, with 25 years of experience at Branksome Hall. Ms. Campbell-Rogers has held key roles such as Instructional Lead & Teacher of Design, IB Diploma Geography Teacher and Service Learning Lead. 

As a lifelong learner and a people person who believes in the power of relationships to drive positive change, her most recent learning has focused on integrating systems, futures and design thinking into curriculum, which inspired her to pursue a Master of Design in Strategic Foresight and Innovation at OCAD University. 

Last spring, she completed a major research project investigating how space design influences pedagogical approaches鈥攁n emerging research area involving VR and innovative learning environments. 

In addition to her impressive work in teaching and learning, Ms. Campbell-Rogers has a track record of helping faculty navigate change and promoting a culture of growth and collaboration. She is passionate about building strong relationships to launch school-wide initiatives that make a lasting impact.

Outside of the classroom, Ms. Campbell-Rogers loves spending time with her husband and sons, often at the hockey rink, but she also enjoys the great outdoors with activities like biking, cross-country running and skiing. She treasures opportunities for travel, good food, friends and quiet Sunday afternoons with her Siberian forest cat and a newspaper.

Ms. Campbell-Rogers is already jumping into adventures by coaching one of our cross-country teams, sharing her passion with our students.

Message from Admissions

Maggie Houston-White, Executive Director of Strategic Enrolment Management, and Emily Simms-Brown, Director of Admission

The school year at 蜜桃视频 has started with many opportunities for connection, celebration and community, three key elements of what makes our school so special. As you explore 蜜桃视频 and all it has to offer, we thought you might enjoy a chance to read some of the articles from our first edition of Inside 蜜桃视频 that highlight what our opening weeks were like and where some of our focus will be this year. Our Principal鈥檚 Message, in particular, highlights so much of the excellence that defines 蜜桃视频 and our bold plans for the future in our strategic plan, .听

It has been such a pleasure to have so many families visiting our campus over the last couple of weeks and experiencing our students, faculty and staff in action, seeing how a typical day at HC is anything but typical. We are looking forward to welcoming families to our Open Houses later in October鈥攔egister to attend here.听

Save the date: we are looking forward to our continued work with Dr. Belle Liang and Tim Klein, authors of . On Tuesday, October 29, Belle and Tim will be working with our faculty and students during the day and hosting our Parents as Partners speaker series that evening. Their research and presentation will surround the connection between purpose and wellbeing and how we, as parents, can support this personally and practically.听All applicant families will receive an invitation in the coming weeks.听

We hope as you continue to learn and discover the 蜜桃视频 difference, you will continue to ask questions, connect with the Admission team and feel confident in the knowledge that we are here to help you find the right school for your daughter and your family.听聽聽聽聽 聽聽

Best wishes, 

Maggie & Emily

Principal’s Message

Dr. Katrina Samson

Welcome to our first edition of 蜜桃视频 Highlights for the 2024-25 school year. I hope the summer brought time with family, relaxation and a healthy dose of sunshine. If you are anything like me, you tuned into the Paris Summer Olympics in August. I love the Olympics! My family often jokes, 鈥淚t鈥檚 Olympics season; Katrina鈥檚 going to be over there crying for two weeks.鈥� And they鈥檙e not wrong. When Summer Macintosh won her first gold medal, I was driving, listening to the radio commentary on her race with tears in my eyes hearing of her first gold medal. Watching the parents, the partners, the coaches鈥攁nd knowing the hours of support, the sacrifices and the pride鈥攇ets me every time. As well, I鈥檓 amazed by the diversity of athletes, from an 11 year old to a 65 year old, from all around the globe, all in pursuit of a common goal: excellence.

I鈥檝e been thinking about what the Olympics teach us about the pursuit of excellence. It鈥檚 a topic that resonates beyond sports. What can we, as parents and a community, learn about the pursuit of excellence from Olympians?

At 蜜桃视频, we鈥檝e been discussing excellence a lot. It鈥檚 the foundation of our and at the core of our mission. We come in everyday committed to teaching, modelling and inspiring excellence in your children. But excellence is too often misconstrued as perfection. Pursuing excellence is not about being perfect. It鈥檚 about giving one鈥檚 best effort, learning from our experiences and aiming to be better today than we were yesterday.

Excellence is setting bold, ambitious goals and persevering through challenges. It鈥檚 understanding that both successes and failures are temporary and that hits and misses are part of the journey. Perhaps most importantly, excellence is not a solo pursuit鈥攊t鈥檚 a team effort. Much like Olympians who lean on coaches, family and teammates, our children need a strong support system to pursue their own excellence.

Excellence also calls for collaboration. The word 鈥渃ompete鈥� comes from Latin origins meaning 鈥渢o strive together.鈥� At 蜜桃视频, we strive together for the success of every student. We鈥檙e not just pushing individual accomplishments; we鈥檙e genuinely invested in one another鈥檚 success.

So, what does excellence look like for your daughters here at 蜜桃视频? It鈥檚 about ensuring they know we are on their team, supporting their growth and helping them become the best versions of themselves. Excellence also means working with intention, both as educators and as a community, to bring out the best in one another. Each of us, whether student, teacher or parent, has something to share and learn.

As we bask in the excitement and energy a new school year brings, my hope is that we鈥攑arents, educators and students鈥攃ome together to inspire excellence by supporting one another, being open and constructive in our feedback and reminding our girls that pursuing bold dreams is done step-by-step with the support of a strong committed community. 

As parents, you are an essential part of Team 蜜桃视频. Together, I know we鈥檒l foster an environment where excellence is encouraged and all children feel supported in their journeys to reach their full potential.

Katrina

Helping Manage Distractions and Support Relationship Building

Lindsay Norberg, Deputy Principal

Fostering strong relationships and connections within our community is essential to the 蜜桃视频 community. To support this goal and align with our philosophy on the role of technology in learning, we have updated our .

After consultation with faculty, parents, students and staff, the school updated and clarified its policy regarding the use of digital devices on campus during the school day. 

The focus of the policy is to:

We are excited to announce that will speak with our Middle School students about responsible device use. His presentation, scheduled for October 1, will provide valuable insights and guidance on this important topic.

In addition, parents are invited to a special session with Jake Ernst on Monday, September 30, where he will address how to support healthy device habits at home. More details about both presentations will be shared in .

How can families support this policy? 

We encourage parents to partner with us in fostering a balanced approach to technology use both at school and at home. By working together, we can help our students cultivate healthy digital habits, build strong connections within the 蜜桃视频 community and enhance focus and wellbeing.

蜜桃视频鈥檚 Approach to Generative AI

Garth Nichols, Vice Principal of Experiential Education & Innovation

This year, 蜜桃视频 has launched a . This framework was developed to support our entire community in understanding how Generative AI will be explored, integrated and managed within our Teaching and Learning philosophy.听

The framework has a version code of 1.0 because we will be reviewing this document throughout the year, taking in feedback on how our approach is supporting the learning experiences. If changes need to be made mid-stream, they can. 

The foundation of the framework is that this latest digital transformation remains very human. We are putting the relationship between the educators and the students at the core of the approach. Our faculty will examine when, where, what and how Generative AI can support teaching and learning processes. Additionally, HC-X faculty have been experimenting and learning about Generative AI alongside our students in our Digital Wisdom classes, which all students in Grades 5 to 8 participate in at 蜜桃视频. 

In June and August, our faculty took part in professional development by and . This provided us with a shared language and combined experiences to grow and learn from. We are excited about the possibilities that Generative AI can provide as our students continue to learn the skills of critical and creative thinking, constructive doubt and strong research and writing skills.听

For more on our approach to Generative AI and how we are integrating it into the teaching and learning experiences, please reach out to me at gnichols@havergal.on.ca or to Adam Caplan, HC-X Director, at acaplan@havergal.on.ca.

Celebration Saturday

Maggie Houston-White, Executive Director, Strategic Enrolment Management

Saturday, September 28 was a day of community at 蜜桃视频 as our students, employees, parents and Old Girls/Alums put our mission鈥�preparing young women to make a difference鈥攊nto action to show our support for and dedication to our .听聽

This annual event is not your typical fun fair: yes, there is cotton candy and inflatables and many ways to have fun, but it is more than that. It is students, parents and our broader community thoughtfully planning activities and programs that not only highlight the work of each of our Community Partners, but also emphasize how our support of their programs enrich us all. 

Parents play such a key role in this event, from the leadership of the members of the HCPA to all of the parents who volunteer their time and talent to the event. Our students see in each volunteer a role model and we as a school see a partnership that we value and are so grateful for. 

Did you know?

While Ellen Knox may not have envisioned gigantic cookies or a creative haunted house when she asked her students What will you do?, I have no doubt she is filled with pride in seeing our community making a difference every year in so many ways at Celebration Saturday. 

Alexandra Zourntos

Associate Director of Admissions, Senior School

Ms. Zourntos joined 蜜桃视频 in 2022 as Associate Director of Admission, Senior School. Focusing on Grade 9 day applications, Boarding applications and international recruitment, her role encompasses the things she enjoys most about education: connecting with families to provide an excellent admission experience and building relationships in different countries as she represents 蜜桃视频 on the road.

With a career in education that has spanned roles in teaching, guidance and admissions, the best part about teaching for Ms. Zourntos was connecting with students and guiding them toward their goals. However, a passion for curriculum within her courses was the missing piece. She was seeking a way of working with students directly, but outside of the classroom, in an administrative role. An opportunity arose to organize and execute experiential education programs around the world and, with an existing affinity for international education and travel, she spent years leading students throughout South America, Europe and Oceania. She later spent a year in Brazil teaching and spearheading an exchange program for students in Porto Alegre while assisting in recruitment efforts in neighbouring states.

Upon returning to Canada after working abroad, Ms. Zourntos eagerly accepted the position of guidance counsellor at a private school. She loved being able to make an impact on students in the areas of academics and wellbeing. This role included admission responsibilities, which led her to transition into leading the admission efforts for the campus. Fast-forward to today, she has found the perfect mix at 蜜桃视频 supporting students, maintaining international exposure through recruitment travel and building relationships with key stakeholders. She leverages her knowledge of the Ontario curriculum to gain a deeper understanding of students鈥� needs and provides maximum effort and enthusiasm to ensure families feel welcomed, informed and inspired throughout their admission experience.

Coming up on the 2024-25 travel docket for the Admission Team, Ms. Zourntos will be representing 蜜桃视频 in Vietnam, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Nigeria, Jamaica, Mexico, UK and Barbados. 

Message from Admissions

Maggie Houston-White, Executive Director of Strategic Enrolment Management, and Emily Simms-Brown, Director of Admission

As we gear up for 蜜桃视频’s beloved Spirit Week, the halls are buzzing with students coming together as a whole grade, planning their cheers, how they will show their grade spirit and represent their grades at all the activities the student leaders have planned. Of course, the excitement for Hockey Day is also in the air and we are so proud to be supporting Hockey 4 Health, which you can read about in this issue of 蜜桃视频 Highlights. 

We are also aware of the excitement that is building for families as Offer Day draws near. All families will be hearing from 蜜桃视频 on Friday, February 23 and acceptances are due back on Wednesday, February 28. We appreciate all of the time and effort all of our applicant families have put into this process. The caliber of candidates and their families have been outstanding. We know the future is a bright one. 

厂颈苍肠别谤别濒测,听

Maggie & Emily

Message from the Admissions Prefects

Andi and Meena

Despite 蜜桃视频’s expansive 22-acre campus and a student population exceeding 1000, the essence of our community is surprisingly intimate. Serving as your Admissions Prefects for the 2023-24 school year, our primary mission has been to highlight the tightly woven fabric of our student body and the countless opportunities available within our school.

In our role, we’ve forged connections with diverse individuals, passionately showcasing our deep affection for 蜜桃视频鈥攖he very motivation that drove both of us to become Admissions Prefects. We are constantly sharing information about the admissions process and our experiences at HC, while simultaneously learning new information about the opportunities within the school that we have not participated in, enriching our perspectives. As we reflect on our 蜜桃视频 journeys, we find fulfillment in guiding younger students as they chart their own paths. 

What resonates most with us in our role as Admissions Prefects is the opportunity to engage with hundreds of families, expressing our profound appreciation for the enriching experiences 蜜桃视频 has bestowed upon us. During tours, we eagerly answer questions and offer guidance to prospective students. Our involvement in events provides a backstage view of the meticulous process鈥攆rom tours and testing, to interviews and thoughtful decisions. Overseeing an Ambassador Program comprising over 100 enthusiastic student volunteers in Grades 11 and 12, we’ve taught them the art of giving compelling tours by engaging with applicants in authentic ways. 

Drawing from our experiences as once newcomers to 蜜桃视频, we share three invaluable pieces of advice with new and incoming students:

Message from the Vice Principal of Experiential Education and Innovation

Garth Nichols

As the Vice Principal of Experiential Education and Innovation, I have a background of living abroad and travelling internationally, as well as starting my own entrepreneurial initiatives and exploring emerging technologies. I have always had a passion for experiential learning. Throughout my eight years at 蜜桃视频, I鈥檝e had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the transformative power of experiential learning and global experiences in our students鈥� lives. I鈥檝e observed student growth, resilience and newfound perspectives firsthand while accompanying our students on trips abroad, which is truly remarkable. These opportunities not only expand their horizons, but also redefine when and where learning occurs, how it takes place and the depth and personal significance of that learning.

Experiential learning has become an integral part of our academic program, permeating various disciplines from Science to Languages, and it鈥檚 a key part of our Global Learning and Leading Diploma program. Our dedicated staff in the Forum for Change鈥攚hich functions as the global heartbeat of the school鈥攅ngage with our students both inside and outside the classroom at the local, regional and international levels to create experiences that leave lasting impressions.

One of the highlights that intersects experiential learning and innovations in learning is our HC-X TC-9 course鈥攚hich stands for 鈥淭ransdisciplinary Course for Grade 9s鈥� or 鈥淭he Challenge for Grade 9s.鈥� This course develops students鈥� skills in transdisciplinary thinking and learning by building knowledge and examining current and predictive events through hands-on experiences. In March of 2024, we will launch the second year of this immersive course designed for Grade 9 students. This program not only equips them with a deeper understanding of global issues and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, but also empowers them to take local actions that make a real difference.

Moving from local impact to global, 蜜桃视频鈥檚 Forum for Change has just concluded an exhilarating year in our Global Experience programming. From Ottawa to Bhutan in 2022鈥�23, to Kananaskis and Nairobi in 2023鈥�24, our students have explored the world, broadening their horizons and embracing diverse cultures.

At 蜜桃视频, we follow the well-researched , guiding our students through a transformative process. We start by helping them develop their global competencies, preparing them for the experiences that lie ahead. During their travels, they put these skills into action, gaining insights that go far beyond traditional classroom learning.

Upon their return, we engage in what we call a transference session, where students and faculty reflect on their experiences. This is a pivotal moment where they craft the narratives that will shape their self-identities and the stories they share with others. Storytelling, as we believe, is a powerful means of integrating their newfound knowledge into their personal and collective consciousness.

Our halls and classrooms are now filled with stories of adventure, connection, service and cultural immersion, alongside discussions of generative AI, robotics, food and world religions. These global experiences not only enrich our community, but also deepen our collective understanding of 蜜桃视频 as a global entity.

Experiential learning, at its core, enriches our community by helping us understand who we are as learners. It sparks a passion for exploration, nurtures empathy and instils a sense of responsibility to make a positive impact in the world.

As we look forward to more adventures, connections and learning opportunities, let us continue to embrace experiential learning and global experiences as integral parts of the 蜜桃视频 experience. Together, we will shape the future of our students and empower them to become compassionate, globally aware leaders.

Here鈥檚 to the adventures that await us and the stories yet to be told.

Garth

Message from the Board of Governors

Jill Fraser, Chair of the Board

New Year鈥檚 greetings from the Board of Governors. We extend our warmest wishes for a happy and healthy 2024.

As the winter term begins, we should pause to reflect on the eventful school year to date. We commenced the year with the return of more co-curricular and athletic events, and joined together as a community for another successful Celebration Saturday and Reunion Weekend. Thrive Week returned to promote mental health awareness, and highlighted some of the strategies and skills that students can use to improve their wellbeing. The Upper School had 27 exciting sports options available to them this fall, with a record 407 students participating. We hosted our first Gator Games of the year in October, with our teams supported by fans proudly wearing green and gold! We arranged a hugely successful Music Retreat to Campfire Circle and a Drama Retreat to Mono Cliffs Outdoor Education Centre. Our Health and Physical Education department reinstated the open gym program at lunchtime with high participation鈥攕tudents were excited to get exercise as well as meet like-minded people. The year closed with a series of Christmas concerts. The traditional Upper School Carol Service held at St. Paul鈥檚 Bloor Street church was a delightful evening of carols and lessons. The Junior School Christmas Concert was a beautiful event also held at St. Paul鈥檚, and the JK/SK Christmas Concert was held in the Junior School. What a wonderful way to move into the holiday season!

As we look ahead to planning for the next school year, we would like to remind parents/guardians that the opportunity to apply to serve on the Board of Governors or a Board Committee is currently open. The Board of Governors Application Form is located  and I encourage you to become involved. This year the Board is especially interested in identifying potential candidates with one or more of the following: philanthropic board and/or charitable foundation board experience; capital infrastructure project oversight experience; and CPA/CFO/operational finance/public accountancy experience. The application due date is Friday, February 2, 2024. Applications will be reviewed in February/March with interviews taking place in March for those selected. Additional details on the role and responsibilities of Board and Committee members . Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at boardofgovernors@havergal.on.ca.

We have accomplished great things so far this school year and I look forward to seeing what we can achieve throughout the rest of the year. I鈥檓 delighted to see our school values of Integrity, Inquiry, Compassion and Courage at work in the school and our community. Thank you all for your efforts and support as we navigate the remainder of the year together.

Thank you,

Jill

Round Square: Opportunities Abound!

In November, five 蜜桃视频 student Delegates, 蜜桃视频鈥檚 Principal Dr. Samson and Vice Principal of Experiential Learning and Innovation Garth Nichols travelled to the Round Square International Conference to join over 1200 other students from around the world at the Brookhouse Schools, Nairobi, Kenya. They began with a pre-conference excursion to the Masai Mara, where for four days, they lived and learned about Masai social, economic, environmental and cultural practices at the Masai Educational Research Centre. Then they travelled into the heart of Nairobi to take part in the conference.

This year, the conference focussed on Internationalism, Democracy and Adventure. Participants learned from senior government officials, activists, fashion designers, journalists and more about 鈥淭he New Africa鈥濃�攖he theme of the conference. Students were billeted and were able to make long-lasting connections with students from Nairobi and from all over the world.

蜜桃视频鈥檚 membership as a Global Member with Round Square avails us of these opportunities, and they will continue to grow. In May of 2024, there is an opportunity for Middle School students to participate in the Round Square Regional Conference in Kananaskis, Alberta. More information about this excursion can be  (applications close Friday, February 2). 

In September of 2024, Senior School students can apply to join the Round Square International Conference in Bogota, Colombia. Applications are now open and selection will be completed before the March Break. More information can be  (applications close Friday, February 2).

Hockey 4 Health

Kaitlyn Windover, Paige Edwards and Emerson Southam

Hey 蜜桃视频! We are beyond excited for Hockey Day and to announce that 蜜桃视频鈥檚 Hockey 4 Health initiative is continuing this year! The core of sports is community, the exact thing that makes Hockey Day so special. Along with the thrilling game on the ice, Hockey Day has the unique power to bring us together, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared spirit. Highlighting this feeling emphasizes the idea that none of us are alone and how strength truly lies in this community, no matter what day it is. Unity is forged through cheering for a common cause and in the shared moments of triumph; these experiences build bonds that extend far beyond the rink.

Hockey 4 Health is a powerful platform for our 蜜桃视频 community to come together and address the stigma surrounding mental health. In support of this initiative, 蜜桃视频 and The Bishop Strachan School are working together to raise funds for Kids Help Phone. This is just one of the ways we can work toward ending the stigma around getting mental health support. By leveraging the strength of our shared experiences and love for our community, we aim to break down barriers, encourage open conversations and create a supportive environment for all.

To support Hockey 4 Health, visit this website:

HC-X Digital Microcredentials

In fall 2022, HC-X launched a new initiative for students in Grades 9 to 12 who may be curious about a potential future career to explore bite-sized learning in emerging fields relevant to their interests and futures. 

Over the 12 to 16 hours of a program, students are empowered to explore their interests in topics such as Pre-Medical Studies, Artificial Intelligence, Design Thinking & Entrepreneurship and Contemporary Finance and immerse themselves in the knowledge, content and practice within these fields.

Students work and learn alongside industry leaders and experts from organizations such as The Academies by Harvard Student Agencies and InspiritAI, Stanford and MIT alumni. The Contemporary Finance program also features connections with 蜜桃视频 alum and current parents on the topics of Women in Capital Markets, ESG investing and Cryptocurrencies.

Upon completion of a Digital Microcredential course, students are issued a digital wallet and a blockchain-based microcredential certificate to recognize their achievement.

Although they are non-credit courses, participating in these digital microcredential opportunities empower students with focused, flexible and recognized learning experiences, enhancing their employability and adaptability in a rapidly changing world. 

To learn more about how to get involved in 蜜桃视频鈥檚 digital microcredential program, visit: .

Blended Learning鈥擶hat Is It?

Have you heard of 鈥渂lended learning鈥� but you aren鈥檛 really sure what it means or how it affects the students at 蜜桃视频? Read on to learn more!

Blended Learning is an overall course design that includes a mix of face-to-face and online activities, engagements and interactions. This includes popular strategies such as a station rotation, playlist or flipped lesson. 

Take a minute to reflect on the following statements and how they could better support learning:

Over the past four years, 蜜桃视频 has increasingly used Blended Learning approaches to promote student agency in their learning, equipping them with self-directed learning skills for their future. 

蜜桃视频 faculty have participated in professional learning experiences on Blended Learning. The HC-X led a team of 15 Blended Learning Leads and Coaches from across the Junior and Upper Schools to investigate opportunities to deepen these practices.

Working with author and Christensen Institute researcher Heather Clayton Staker, HC-X is hosting a Blended Learning Conference in May 2024 to continue this pedagogical learning journey with other educators across CIS Ontario schools.

Our Blended Learning Leads and Coaches have been developing their skill sets in this area and will continue to help classroom teachers enhance the learning experience for all students.

Jeff Adams

HC-X Teacher

Mr. Adams has been at 蜜桃视频 for almost 10 years and has taught students in Science and Math and has led a variety of HC-X programs. He is actively involved as one of our Middle School Form leaders, athletics coach and mentor for the Global Learning and Leading Diploma (GLLD) program. With undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in Science, he is currently completing a PhD in curriculum, teaching and learning at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) at the University of Toronto. He is a coach for Cohort 21, a community of passionate Conference of Independent Schools (CIS) Ontario educators who are interested in refining and redesigning their practice through the exploration of new pedagogies, ideas and tools. 

Since becoming an HC-X Teacher at 蜜桃视频, Mr. Adams is very excited to be co-developing with Mr. Nichols our Grade 9 course called TC-9, which stands for 鈥淭ransdisciplinary Course for Grade 9s鈥� as well as 鈥淭he Challenge for Grade 9s.鈥� It is a course that requires students to use the skills, knowledge and approaches from several different academic courses simultaneously to address their chosen topics. Through TC-9, students are learning about and engaging with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. HC-X teachers like Mr. Adams work closely with Grade 9 educators to interweave key skills, learnings and activities from other required curricula within the TC-9 course. 

This year, Mr. Adams has been focussing on incorporating inquiry-based learning, experiential education and project-based learning into the classroom, which he lives and breathes outside of 蜜桃视频 as he pursues his PhD in Transdisciplinary Studies. His curiosity for continuous learning is an inspiration and an asset to his students and the school community.

Message from Admissions

Maggie Houston-White, Executive Director of Strategic Enrolment Management, and Emily Simms-Brown, Director of Admission

November is upon us, wrapping up fall term sports, seeing our first Exchange students of the year headed home and celebrating all our students have achieved this term. While the days are a little shorter and a little cooler, there is a sense of anticipation and joy at 蜜桃视频 as students gear up for concerts, our Middle School Play, winter sports and our upcoming Thrive Week. Thrive Week takes place in the week of November 20 and was designed for and with students, faculty and staff to focus on wellbeing, community and connection.

We hope you will join us for our evening with Dr. Lisa Damour on November 28th, who will be working with faculty and students during the day and then speaking with parents in the evening about adolescent emotional development and strategies that foster connection, self-awareness and self-regulation. It is this wraparound approach to wellbeing, by including everyone in our community, that really speaks to the 蜜桃视频 difference. We are a school that understands the power of partnership, the importance of investing in top research and programs, the benefits of collaboration and the value of community.

Our most recent issue of our parent newsletter, Inside 蜜桃视频, speaks to our work in wellbeing and the importance of providing students with the skills and resources they need to thrive at 蜜桃视频 and beyond. You can learn more about how we support our students in and out of the classroom by listening to our new Navigator Podcasts:

We hope you enjoy these resources as part of your exploration of 蜜桃视频. 

Maggie & Emily

Message from the Vice Principal of Student Life and Wellbeing

Krista Koekkoek

It is hard to believe that I have only been at 蜜桃视频 since mid-August. During this time, I have been warmly welcomed by students, staff, parents and alumni alike; the community is alive with pride and keen to share its traditions and have me experience what it truly means to be a Gator. And so what have I noticed in the hallways, the classrooms, the gyms and the fields? What have I observed in Prayers, at Celebration Saturday and in the day-to-day interactions we benefit from in a small, tightly-knit community? It has been clear to me, from early on, that this place thrives on connections, prioritizes belonging and wants so deeply to find the best ways to both practise and instill the lifelong habits of wellbeing in its students and staff. It鈥檚 no surprise at all to me that this month鈥檚 Inside 蜜桃视频 has these very themes. In this month鈥檚 issue, you will find countless examples of the good work this community continues to do to support all who walk through these doors (and for those who have walked these halls before us).

I have spent the last decade of my career focusing on wellbeing in schools鈥攚hat it means, how it feels and how to live it fully鈥攁nd here is what I know to be true and primary: to be truly well, we must feel connected. We must feel like we belong. We need to know we matter to others and are seen for who we are authentically. And so, what a beautiful community for me to continue to build on this deeply ingrained capacity and strength for relational learning. At a time when the health and wellbeing of children and adolescents can feel threatened, we commit at 蜜桃视频 to bolstering the toolkit of our adults in their support of the growth of our students. Building self-awareness, flexibility and agency in them (all pillars of wellbeing) require intentionality and modelling from the adults who surround them. And we have the most capable group of staff to do this with. 

In this issue, you鈥檒l hear from our Wellbeing Prefect, Emerson Southam, who, along with our Social Work team and the Wellbeing Council is in the throws of developing this year鈥檚 Upper School Thrive Week (our fabulous Junior School staff is busy supporting this same event with our younger students). A testament to our work in wellbeing is this student-driven initiative, aimed at a strength-based lens to taking care of ourselves and normalizing the human experience of feeling all emotions. 

Krista

Message from the Board of Governors

Jill Fraser, Chair of the Board

What a wonderful start to the new school year! The halls are once again filled with student laughter and chatter and there is so much excitement among students and faculty to be back on campus. So far this year we have had many exciting Upper and Junior School events such as Celebration Saturday, the Terry Fox Run, Awards Day and Gator Games, and we are looking forward to many more events to come!

I would like to extend a huge thank you to Debbie Simpson, our Past Chair, who introduced me as your incoming Board Chair in last month鈥檚 Inside 蜜桃视频. I took over the role of Board Chair on September 28 and I am ready and eager to continue the very important initiatives the Board has been working on under Debbie鈥檚 strong and dedicated leadership, including supporting the launch of the school鈥檚 new strategic plan. The Board at 蜜桃视频 is a governance body and our primary role is one of strategic oversight. We work in that capacity with the Principal and the Senior Leadership Team to set strategic goals and priorities, which guide the school鈥檚 growth and development. The Board oversees the financial health of the school and works to protect its long-term sustainability. As the new Chair, I am looking forward to working with the Board and the Senior Leadership Team as we continue to collaborate to ensure the continuing success of 蜜桃视频.

I wish everyone an enjoyable and healthy fall and encourage you all, new and old, to be active members of our vibrant community. There are many ways for you to participate in school life, including the , , the Foundation, the Board of Governors or its committees. We appreciate the time that you devote to our community.

Warm regards,

Jill

The Importance of Wellbeing

Emerson S., Wellbeing Prefect

My family has a long history of mental illness: we lost my uncle to his battle with depression and my grandmother has battled mental illness for the better part of her adult life. Open dialogue about mental health has been a staple at our dinner table for as long as I can remember, which is why wellbeing is so important to me.

But a healthy mind is only one component of the wellbeing equation. My approach, which is entirely consistent with the approach at HC, is to touch upon the wellbeing of the whole person. A 蜜桃视频 education is about the growth of mind, body and spirit. There are so many negative influences in the world today on young women, such as social media, telling us who and what we are supposed to be and, equally, who and what we cannot be. My goal this year is to create events and an atmosphere where we are comfortable with who we are and who we want to be, an environment where we can speak openly about issues that matter to us. I truly believe that the ivy walls provide a safe, loving space in which we can do that.

As a way to raise awareness about mental health and wellbeing, 蜜桃视频 is hosting Thrive Week from November 20 to 24. During Thrive Week, we will hear from students and guest speakers who will walk us through their journeys with mental wellbeing. We will also have some special therapy dog visitors! But Thrive Week is only one week of the academic year. On World Mental Health Day on October 10, the Grade 12 Prefects handed out a list of the multiple resources available to students who may need someone to talk to (coupled with candy, of course) on behalf of the Wellbeing Council. We are excited about the affirmation exercises in each Upper School TA during the year, which started at the beginning of October. I am also teaming with other Prefects and Grade 12 leaders to organize events for the Junior School, Middle School and Upper School that touch on the wellbeing of the whole person. 

Most importantly, as Wellbeing Prefect, I want to help create an atmosphere where the halls are filled with joy, laughter and smiles.

Emerson

Supporting Emotional Wellbeing and Growth at the Junior School

Kate White, Head of Junior School

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, the focus has progressively shifted from solely academic achievements to nurturing the holistic development of our students. Recognizing the crucial role of social-emotional skills in shaping future success, the 蜜桃视频 Junior School has recently begun implementing two research-based programs, RULER and Second Step, to support the emotional wellbeing and growth of both our teachers and students.

Research has underscored the significant impact of social-emotional skill development on academic performance and long-term success. By fostering self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills and responsible decision-making, these programs equip students with the tools necessary to navigate complex social interactions, manage stress and exhibit resilience in the face of challenges.

The Junior School faculty and staff are embarking on a learning journey this year with RULER. This is a systemic approach to social and emotional learning developed at the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, which aims to infuse the principles of emotional intelligence into JK to Grade 12 schools, informing how leaders lead, teachers teach, students learn and families support students.

Part of what differentiates RULER from other school-based initiatives is that it focuses first on developing adults in the school, both personally and professionally, so they can be role models and knowledgeable implementers of the skill-based instruction for students. After the teachers have been trained, the goal is to start infusing the approach in classes next year, as well as providing education for families.

In addition, this year Junior School faculty will continue to implement the Second Step program to support the wellbeing of our students. Second Step is a research-based program that provides explicit instruction and practice of key social-emotional skills considered necessary for students to effectively navigate social situations and build positive relationships with their peers. Lessons will support our students to develop skills in the following areas:

The Second Step program will be taught by Child and Youth Worker, Holly Fournier, in collaboration with classroom teachers.

Supporting our younger students through their social-emotional development is an important part of the 蜜桃视频 experience. Our goal is to develop the self-care skills within our students so they can continue to support their wellbeing needs into the Upper School and beyond.

Parents as Partners Speaker Series: Dr. Lisa Damour

Tuesday, November 28, at 7 pm

As part of our Parents as Partners Speaker Series, 蜜桃视频 is proud to welcome Dr. Lisa Damour as our first speaker.

Dr. Damour is the author of three New York Times best sellers: Untangled, Under Pressure and The Emotional Lives of Teenagers. She co-hosts the Ask Lisa podcast, works in collaboration with UNICEF and is recognized as a thought leader by the American Psychological Association. Dr. Damour is also a regular contributor to The New York Times and CBS News.

During the day, she will be working with our students from Grade 7 to 12 and will run professional development with our faculty in the afternoon.

蜜桃视频 faculty and staff who are members of our Girls and Learning team have enjoyed reading her books over the years and are currently reading her new book The Emotional Lives of Teenagers.

Her visit, including our evening with our parents, will be focused on understanding adolescent emotional development and strategies that foster connection, self awareness and self regulation. 

We are grateful to the Southam family for their contributions to Thrive Week and to the Class of 2023 for their donations to our Wellbeing Program, which allow us to have speakers and programs like this.

!

The HCPA鈥檚 Ivy Market

Tuesday, November 21

Kick off your holiday shopping in style at the HCPA鈥檚 Ivy Market, featuring a carefully-curated group of local vendors offering unique gift items! During the day from 10 am to 4:30 pm, parents and students can shop, make a stop at the Bake Sale and visit the HCPA Marketplace. 

In the evening from 6:30 to 9:30 pm, parents (current and past) and Old Girls/Alums can sip and shop the Ivy Market at the cocktail party! Tickets for the cocktail party are $50 per person and include appetizers and two drinks. The vendor market and HCPA marketplace will be featured during the evening. Either way, it鈥檚 a great opportunity to connect with the HC community and celebrate the season.

New this year鈥攚e鈥檙e excited to feature a draw for a stunning holiday 蜜桃视频 gingerbread house! This 2鈥� x 3鈥� model is created in the holiday likeness of the Upper School and would make a unique (and edible!) decoration or centrepiece. Tickets are $10 each (deadline to purchase tickets is 3 pm on November 21) and the draw will take place on Tuesday, November 21 at 4 pm.

We look forward to seeing you!

.

.

Financial Support Applications for 2024-25

Deadline to Apply: Friday, December 1

Students entering Grades 7 to 12 in September 2024 may apply for Financial Support in the form of a Tuition Bursary.

Separate from any application for admission or re-enrolment, applications are submitted via a third-party company, .

New and returning student families must complete their application by Friday, December 1 each year to be considered for the following school year. Late applications may not be accepted as funds are limited.

Renewal of a Financial Support is not automatic. Families must reapply and qualify annually.

Rethinking What It Means to Study

Jennifer Goldberg, Director of Academic Operations

Many students believe the key to stronger academic performance is investing more time in their school work. Certainly, time is important. However, overemphasizing 鈥渢ime spent鈥� obscures the reality that the quality of the time is at least as important as the quantity. In his latest book, Outsmart Your Brain: Why Learning Is Hard and How You Can Make It Easy, esteemed cognitive psychologist Dr. Daniel Willingham makes a powerful analogy between learning and physical exercise. He notes the exercise that challenges our body is the one most likely to strengthen it; so, even though exercising this way is likely to feel very difficult, it is the most effective choice. By contrast, Willingham explains, when it comes to learning, our brains are wired to trick us, telling us that what feels easy鈥攚hat we can do without much effort鈥攊s the most effective way to engage. 

Here鈥檚 a specific school example: one of the most popular student study techniques is rereading (and perhaps highlighting) one鈥檚 notes and course texts. However, experiments have repeatedly shown that this approach achieves very little in terms of memory and learning. In other words, rereading is popular not because it yields results but because it feels easy. Many hours spent studying for a test in this way are, often, many hours wasted. 

Far more effective, Willingham explains, is retrieval practice: processes that require us to pull something out of our memory. Students can engage with retrieval practice by, for example, putting their course materials away and using a blank page to create their own study guide. In contrast to rereading, this technique pushes the brain to engage actively with the content, making meaning and building connections. What we must remember is that retrieval practice will feel much harder than rereading; as Willingham says, 鈥淛udge the effectiveness of a method by the results, not by how it feels to do it.鈥�

For students who鈥檝e concluded that the only road to academic achievement is paved with sleepless nights, focusing on 鈥渢ime spent鈥� may not be very helpful. Instead, ask: 鈥淗ow did you use the time you spent on this?鈥� This shift helps us resist the fallacy that academic success can come only at the cost of wellbeing, and emphasizes instead the concrete habits and behaviours that we know support students in growing into empowered and independent learners.

For further exploration, I recommend these books: 

Note that 蜜桃视频 is thrilled to welcome Lisa Damour to campus on November 28. During her time here, Dr. Damour will be presenting learning sessions for students, faculty and parents.

The Reverend Jillian Ruch

School Chaplain

The Reverend Jillian Ruch joins 蜜桃视频 this year as our School Chaplain. With more than 20 years of experience in the area of youth ministry and social work, Rev. Ruch supports student wellbeing at the school in many ways.

Prior to being ordained in 2022, Rev. Ruch was a front line social worker and supervisor for the Children鈥檚 Aid Society of Toronto, mainly in the Scarborough area. With this background in social work, she has excellent listening skills and the ability to connect with others in meaningful ways. One of her goals at 蜜桃视频 is to learn from students, staff, faculty and families about their perspectives as a community, while providing comfort and a steady presence for those in need of pastoral care. 

Rev. Ruch brings a sense of curiosity with her about where people are in their spiritual journeys and uses inquiry and compassion to hold space for discussions in and outside of the Prayers space. This includes most recently meeting with groups, such as the Truth and Reconciliation Committee and the Prayers Council, to explore the tensions that exist between the Indigenous Peoples and the wider church and how that intersects with the reconciliation work that they are leading in our community. She is committed to working with and through this tension, knowing that through these difficult conversations our community learns, grows and leans into the Calls to Action wherever possible.

With a growth mindset that鈥檚 grounded in experience from years of working with youth from various cultures and backgrounds, Rev. Ruch embodies 蜜桃视频鈥檚 Anglican values through her Christian identity, prayers and blessings as she hopes to learn more about and elevate the voices and cultures of others at 蜜桃视频. Her goal is to support 蜜桃视频鈥檚 community by modelling what it means to be inclusive, open-minded and inquisitive. She encourages anyone interested in reaching out to send her an email at jruch@havergal.on.ca. 

Message from Admissions

Maggie Houston-White, Executive Director of Strategic Enrolment Management, and Emily Simms-Brown, Director of Admission

The school year at 蜜桃视频 has started with so many opportunities for connection, celebration and community, three key elements of what makes our school so special. As you explore 蜜桃视频 and all it has to offer, we thought you might enjoy a chance to read some of the articles from our first edition of Inside 蜜桃视频 that highlight what our opening weeks were like and where some of our focus will be this year. The article by Fatima Kaba about our community partnerships is one we particularly enjoyed, as it speaks to how we put our mission into action and why that  matters to our students and our community. 

It has been such a pleasure to have so many families visiting our campus and experiencing our students, faculty and staff in action, seeing how a typical day at HC is anything but typical. We hope as you continue to learn and discover the 蜜桃视频 difference that you will continue to ask questions, to connect with the Admission team and to feel confident in the knowledge that we are here to help you find the right school for your daughter and your family.    

Best wishes, 

Maggie & Emily

Principal’s Message

Dr. Katrina Samson

Happy September! We have been blessed here at 蜜桃视频 with so many opportunities to connect with our community this fall. Our Grade 7, 8, 9 and 12 students were away at camps where they bonded as a class, developed teamwork skills and prepared for the year ahead. This past week, we welcomed back hundreds of Old Girls/Alums to campus for Reunion Week. We celebrated those Old Girls who reached their 50+ year reunion milestones at the Golden Reflections Luncheon. We welcomed back former Boarders to connect with our current Boarding students and staff at the Former Boarder Dinner. We capped the week off with the Reunion Cocktail Reception, where classes ending in 鈥�3 and 鈥�8 came together to reconnect with one another and their beloved school.

On Saturday, our whole school community came together for Celebration Saturday 2023. This is an annual event where we gather to raise funds and awareness for the important work done via our Community Partnerships. It was another beautiful day at 蜜桃视频, but even more impactful was seeing our community come together in support of local organizations that are making a difference. In short, it was a day designed to build community and to put our mission鈥�to make a difference鈥攊nto action.

I鈥檓 energized when I contemplate the future we鈥檙e building together at 蜜桃视频. We are coming off of a year of intensive planning as we worked to collect insight and feedback to shape 蜜桃视频鈥檚 next strategic direction. In the coming weeks and months, you鈥檒l hear more about the bold plans we have to ensure that our girls are receiving the very best preparation to head out into the world and be positive change-makers. You鈥檒l also hear about the near-term and future-term initiatives we are undertaking to continue in our pursuit of excellence as a school. I again want to thank the students, employees, parents and Old Girls/Alums who shared their ideas and hopes for 蜜桃视频, building on our rich history and investing in future opportunities for our girls. 

As we welcome this new school year, I encourage you to join us in exploring the experiences, opportunities and learning that will allow our girls to graduate as young women who will lead progress and innovation into future generations. I am filled with optimism and hope for 蜜桃视频鈥檚 future as we embark on this new school year together.

Katrina

Working Together with Our Community Partnerships

Fatima Kaba, Manager of Learning Experiences

Over the years, 蜜桃视频 has created relationships with community partners that not only benefit our school, but also have profound impacts on the broader community. These collaborations are essential for cultivating a sense of social responsibility, empathy and civic engagement among students, while providing 蜜桃视频 students opportunities to make a difference. 

Each Community Partnership is founded on our 鈥�4 P鈥� approach. We partner with people first, not necessarily organizations; we honour the place of the people and that informs our work; we seek out different perspectives; and once we have done this, can we enter into a true reciprocal partnership. One of the primary advantages of engaging in Community Partnerships is the development of empathy and social responsibility in students. Through interactions with community members and organizations, students gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and needs within their local area. This first-hand exposure to real-world issues helps students develop empathy and a desire to make positive impacts. They learn to appreciate the value of helping others and develop a sense of responsibility toward their community. Students who participate in our long-standing weekly partnerships at Grenoble Public School and Art City are immersed in a new community by sharing ideas, gaining new perspectives and developing their commitment to others.  

While the communities served in these partnerships benefit from 蜜桃视频鈥檚 ongoing efforts, the students and school as a whole also benefit from the reciprocal relationship. They gain access to valuable information, expertise and experiences that enhance the educational opportunities they offer. These partnerships enrich the curriculum and provide students with diverse learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom.

At our Community Partnership Fest on Wednesday, September 27, Upper School students will have the opportunity to learn more about our weekly and bi-weekly partnerships and sign up to be part of this incredible learning experience in collaboration with our community partners. 

The Forum for Change strives to develop and continue to grow our relationships with our community partners as they foster a sense of interconnectedness and social responsibility that can last a lifetime. 

A full list of community partnerships can be found . Learn more about the impact of our partnerships .

Student Opportunities Through the Forum for Change

Jessica Randall, Manager of Global Learning Experiences

The Forum for Change (F4C) is the global heartbeat of 蜜桃视频, providing students with experiential learning opportunities outside of the classroom and with the world around them. Bringing 蜜桃视频鈥檚 mission to life, the F4C鈥檚 role is to support students in finding their passions and interests to make a difference in the world, locally and globally. 

Recognizing our vision for 蜜桃视频 graduates, we want them to be globally-minded, confident and resilient decision-makers. We help build bridges and networks to support these opportunities so our students can learn from new perspectives, be self-directed, meet people and discover more about their cultures.

The F4C stretches and challenges our students in ways that support our Portrait of a Grad: in particular, Globally-Minded, Being Flexible and Adaptable Thinkers, and Leaning into Action. We support, through our learning experiences, their development of identity and sense of self with a disposition to action. Through their participation in these opportunities, students learn to adapt and thrive in complex and changing environments so, when they graduate, they can navigate a dynamic and uncertain world.

Opportunities include participating in the Global Learning & Leading Diploma (GLLD), travelling with our Global Exchanges and Excursions, and working with our partner . Each of these programs is designed to equip students to make a positive difference in the world with a focus on knowing, understanding and developing a practice of global competencies. These programs encourage students to broaden their cultural fluency and make an impact through deep and meaningful learning experiences. Our memberships in global organizations, such as UNESCO Associated Schools Network and Round Square, means more opportunities for our students to engage in global projects, conferences and connections beyond our ivy walls.

The F4C is the place to go for students who have big ideas, want to help those around them and learn more about the world outside of 蜜桃视频 through our various opportunities and partnerships.

A New Year of Athletic Opportunities

Anna Bartlett, JS Athletic Director, and Carla Di Filippo, US Athletic Director

The start of the fall season will always be full of excitement because it means sports are back at HC! For us, the Athletic Directors at the Junior and Upper Schools, there is almost no better feeling than the joy of watching our students playing sports on our beautiful 22-acre campus. Typical after school activities for our athletes include swimming in the pool; playing basketball in the gym; competing in field hockey, flag football or soccer on the fields; enjoying the on-campus disc golf course; learning tennis or pickleball on our tennis courts; or running in the Lisa Hardie Woodland Trail. We are truly blessed to be on this campus and in this space. 

This fall, the Upper School boasts 27 sports teams while the Junior School is offering 13 teams. At 蜜桃视频, school spirit runs high and we hope each student has the chance to play one sport at some point this school year. There is no better way to meet new people, learn something new and be active all while having fun. 

If you want to view some great photos and updates about athletics, please follow our Instagram page:  

Can You Hear the Buzz?

Garth Nichols, Vice Principal, Experiential Learning and Innovation

Nestled in a fenced-off area with ample sunlight and shade is home to 蜜桃视频鈥檚 newest members of the community: honeybees. If you read the summer mailing from August, you鈥檒l know that we have partnered with Alveole, a beekeeping company that has excellent experience in schools and organizations in supporting honeybee hives. We have our own designated Beekeeper, and hosted two 鈥淗ive to HoneyJar鈥� workshops this month, where our students, faculty and staff had the opportunity to harvest some honey from our hive. Alveole looks after the hive and the bees, ensuring they are well taken care of; moreover, Alveole will be working with the Forum for Change and our interested students to use the data from the bees (their numbers, behaviours, as well as the ingredients in their honey) to learn about the health of our campus ecosystem and the surrounding community. We will be using our honeybees for land-based learning experiences and sustainability practices: understanding pollinator competition in the city of Toronto, and what we can do to support our pollinators and our ecosystem. Discover more about this program by reading 鈥�,鈥� by visiting  or by reaching out to me, Garth Nichols, Vice Principal of Experiential Learning and Innovation, at gnichols@havergal.on.ca.

Jessica Randall

Manager of Global Learning Experiences

Our newest member of the Forum for Change is Jessica Randall, who is the Manager of Global Learning Experiences. In this role, she oversees 蜜桃视频鈥檚 Exchange program and supports our Community Partnerships. This includes working with a variety of organizations in facilitating art programming, tutoring sessions and mentoring opportunities, as well as hosting food and clothing drives. 鈥淕iving back to the community is something I am really passionate about, and being able to do that while helping students find outreach activities they are passionate about is very fulfilling,鈥� says Ms. Randall. 鈥淚 am so excited to have joined such a welcoming, friendly and spirited community.鈥�

You can find Ms. Randall in the Forum for Change office, located in the Resource Centre (the library). Students are invited to go to the Forum for Change for advice, support and guidance on a variety of things, including finding the right opportunity for them to earn their mandatory 40 hours of community service required to graduate. She also mentors students so they are prepared for what to expect while on Exchange, whether locally or abroad, and acts as a liaison with our Exchange student guests, ensuring they feel safe and comfortable while away from home.

Whether going on a global excursion through our partnership with Round Square, participating in our Exchange program or working with different communities through our local and international partnerships, Ms. Randall is available to provide guidance to our students on their journeys. These experiential learning opportunities are excellent ways for teenagers to gain self-confidence and independence as they discover Canada and the world, meet different people, make new friends and learn about other cultures as they prepare for the future beyond 蜜桃视频. 

Message from Admissions

Emily Simms-Brown, Executive Director of Strategic Enrolment Management

Earlier this week the Upper School community joined Dr. Samson in the Brenda Robson Hall to sing, gather and to be reminded to find joy, peace and happiness no matter what you are celebrating at this time of year. As a new year approaches, we all have much to look forward to as we continue to live our values in 2023.

If you enjoy Christmas music, we invite you to get into the holiday spirit as you watch our distinctive Carol Service event, 鈥淎 Festival of Lessons and Carols,鈥� which features 蜜桃视频鈥檚 wonderful student choirs. This event will be live streamed through YouTube on Thursday, December 22 at 7 pm (and available for later viewing) . Please join us for this 蜜桃视频 holiday tradition.

Junior School applicant families are also invited to watch the holiday performances of our Junior School students (Grades 1 to 6) live on Thursday, December 22, starting at 4 pm (or at your convenience) .

We are grateful to each of our prospective families for considering 蜜桃视频 and we are excited to continue to share with you all the experiences that make 蜜桃视频 an exceptional school and community.

Wishing you a happy new year,

Emily

Principal鈥檚 Message

Dr. Katrina Samson

As the holiday season arrives and we begin to anticipate the joy of gathering with family and friends, early December is a natural moment to think about gratitude and giving back. At 蜜桃视频, our Celebration Saturday event comes immediately to mind, where students this year raised $39,837.66 in support of our community partners. Yet another inspiration are our facilities and the programming that over the years have been developed and strengthened thanks to the generosity of our donors. Today at 蜜桃视频, we are lucky enough to benefit from those who have gone before us and those who have shown their belief in our school mission with their philanthropic support. Our donors, past and present, recognize that success for one girl contributes to the empowerment of all girls.

Yet, we also recognize a gap when it comes to supporting girls鈥� education. Philanthropic support has historically been higher for boys鈥� schools. This disparity not only has an impact on girls鈥� education, but also reinforces the gender equity gap鈥攖he gap 蜜桃视频 was founded to address. This gender equity gap exists in a number of ways in today鈥檚 society, illustrated through facts such as pay inequity between men and women. In 2021, Canadian women made only 89 cents for every dollar men made, according to the . The philanthropic investments of our donor community helps narrow these divisions and ensures that young women are empowered to rise as far as they want in their careers and in society. Their support demonstrates to our girls how much our community believes in them and their potential.

At 蜜桃视频, giving back is built into our curriculum, community partnerships and co-curricular programs. It鈥檚 especially inspiring to witness students go beyond these school programs and express their own agency in giving. As an example, this year鈥檚 Grad Class has chosen wellbeing as a focus for their annual Grad Gift. Seeing them empowered by the potential of their impact is inspiring and we expect that it will be just the first of many such moments of exercising impact and influence in their young lives.

Katrina

Senior School Community Partnerships

This year at 蜜桃视频, our Community Partnership programs returned with reignited passion. Student leaders and volunteers have embraced these outreach programs with excitement, curiosity and a genuine desire to contribute and build relationships. 鈥淎fter more than two years of COVID-19 restrictions, it is exciting to finally volunteer with a wider school community together in a physical space,鈥� explains Art City Community Partnership Co-Head Kathy Lu. 鈥淰isiting the kids every week at Grenoble Public School and connecting with them face-to-face has been very rewarding,鈥� adds Grenoble Community Partnership Head Kate Davidson. 鈥淚t鈥檚 amazing to see the bonds the students make with our 蜜桃视频 volunteers as their friendships start to bud.鈥�

STEM Learning with SPOT Robot Dogs

In November, 蜜桃视频 welcomed guests from the Ontario Power Generation Innovation team, who brought in two SPOT robot dogs! SPOT dogs perform tasks that are unsafe for human workers and are an exciting use of robot technology. After a morning assembly at the Upper School, students in Grades 7 to 12 had the opportunity to see these 鈥渄ogs鈥� in action by the Old Girls BioWall. In the afternoon, the robots visited the Junior School, where students had the opportunity to learn about the robots, ask questions and watch them do some fun tricks like play fetch and write “hi.” .

Forty Years of Rowing at 蜜桃视频

This year, 蜜桃视频 celebrates 40 years of Rowing! Since the start of the program in 1982, approximately 400 athletes have represented 蜜桃视频 on the water. Today, our rowers continue to place in competitions and our athletes often make it to the podium at the Canadian Secondary School Rowing Championships. In the 2021-22 school year, 蜜桃视频 crews stood on the podium five times, with 24 athletes receiving medals. 蜜桃视频 rowers have represented our school in the famed Head of the Charles Regatta in Cambridge, Massachusetts, for many years; in 2021-22, five of our rowers competed, placing 28th out of a field of 90.

Open to students in Grades 9 to 12 to join, many crew mates start without any experience rowing and quickly fall in love with the sport because of the friendships they make during early morning practices on the lake or on the ergometers in the Fitness Centre. Rowing at 蜜桃视频 is not just a sport, but a unique community that shares a love of teamwork and perseverance. Strong Alone, Unstoppable Together.

Sarah Milligan, Associate Director of Admission

Sarah Milligan is no stranger to independent schools: she grew up on the Ridley College campus as a faculty child and eventually spent both her Middle and Senior School years as a Ridley Tiger. After completing an English Literature degree at the Mount Allison University, Ms. Milligan joined the Canadian Association of Independent Schools (CAIS), stewarding the Canadian Boarding Project, which was designed to increase the number of Canadian boarding students enrolled in CAIS schools. In 2014, she was appointed as Assistant Head, Enrolment Management at Lakefield College School, a boarding and day school for students in grades 9 to 12 located just outside of Peterborough. During her tenure at Lakefield, Ms. Milligan led the Admissions team, sat on the Senior Leadership Team and represented the school locally and abroad, cultivating strong relationships with parents and students around the world. She joined 蜜桃视频 in September 2019 as the Associate Director of Admission and is thrilled to be a part of our Junior School working alongside both faculty and parents to provide applicants with an exceptional experience throughout the admission process. When she isn’t at 蜜桃视频, she is busy at home with her children and her husband Darren, dividing their time between Toronto and their family cottage in the Kawarthas.