Principal’s Message

Katrina Samson

As the weather warms up, we鈥檙e preparing to send the 蜜桃视频 Class of 2022 out into the world. Graduation is an exciting time as it marks the culmination of all the preparation we have done together over the years and all the skills our students have gained, which they can take into their next chapters as women of influence and leaders of positive change. 

At 蜜桃视频, we continually adjust and adapt our curriculum to reflect the world our students are entering, and to prepare them to be leaders in that world. As we think of the new world of work, highlights seven competencies that will rise to prominence in the next decade. Employers have repeatedly emphasized relationship-building and critical thinking as key skills that are needed for future success. Our future-ready education emphasizes learning agility and adaptability as essential in an ever-changing world. We鈥檙e all too familiar with how important these skills have been in the past two years in particular, and we watched with pride as our students and staff rose to the occasion. Despite ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic, our graduates approached this year with creativity and optimism and I am confident that these skills will serve them well in their future endeavours. 

The uncertainty of tomorrow and the speed at which the world is changing are exactly the reasons why we developed 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 Portrait of a Graduate. While we could not have predicted the past few years, we wanted to ensure we were instilling skills that would serve our students no matter what their futures bring. When we think of a future-ready leader, we imagine someone who is poised to take on any challenge by embracing diversity, thinking critically and being resilient. A girls鈥�-centred education also ensures that our students are in an environment where they have multiple role models, encouraging them to grow and challenging them to practise leadership now, which will position them well to be leaders tomorrow. As I look at our graduating class, I am filled with optimism for our future and pride in their many accomplishments. 

As we say goodbye to our graduates, I want to remind them鈥攁nd you, their parents鈥攖hat the doors to 蜜桃视频 are always open. Graduates, we hope you come back in the future to visit and reconnect. As lifelong learners, you will always be 蜜桃视频ians and now, as you become Old Girls/Alums, you join a long list of remarkable women that have carved their paths and made positive change in our world. Congratulations on your achievements and we can鈥檛 wait to see what you do next. 

Katrina

Message from the Board of Governors

Debbie Simpson, Chair of the Board of Governors

The end of another school year approaches and I find myself in disbelief that this is the last Inside 蜜桃视频 message from the Board for 2021-22; how swiftly this year has gone by! Together, we navigated the school year and slowly journeyed out of the pandemic; for this, my heartfelt gratitude to the 蜜桃视频 community, Dr. Katrina Samson and team鈥攁s well as the entire Board of Governors and Committee members鈥攆or their unwavering support. We are, indeed, stronger together. 

In keeping with the rich heritage of traditions, the Board invites student leaders to join the April meeting to share their perspectives on the year. This year, we were joined by School Captain Marley Melbourne and Wellbeing Prefect Erin Howard. Marley and Erin spoke of their focus on DEI, community building and wellbeing throughout the student body, and elaborated on several exciting events that took place in the year that allowed students to explore the new builds as well as develop friendships across grades. They noted some of the opportunities taken to innovate Prayers and focus on topics such as Black and Indigenous people and traditions, including reflecting on the treatment of Black soldiers and better understanding the experience of Chinese soldiers returning from war as part of Remembrance Day Prayers. It was encouraging to hear how the whole school embraced Thrive Week and the philosophy with an emphasis on how we support ourselves with our mental health. Having therapy dogs visit and offering morning yoga sessions were particularly well received parts of the Wellbeing Program. Renewed focus on community wellbeing gave new energy to the Terry Fox Run this year and the very special Relay for Life, which was in partnership with Upper Canada College, Branksome Hall, Bishop Strachan School and Crescent School. Marley and Erin closed by sharing their learnings this year: turning challenges into opportunities, adapting in continually changing circumstances, learning to live with uncertainty and using feedback to develop meaningful and relevant initiatives. Their passion for 蜜桃视频 and their thoughtful commitment to the student body was paramount in their presentation and the Board truly enjoyed engaging with them. They reminded us, once again, that students have been and continue to be our greatest inspiration; we have much to learn from them!

This year, the school has also made tremendous progress with our donations, which would never be possible without all of you鈥攖he 蜜桃视频 community. These funds enable us to build new and innovative spaces for our students to learn and grow in. We are so very grateful for this unwavering support. 

As this school year concludes, Dr. Katrina Samson completes her first school year as the 13th Principal of 蜜桃视频. I have personally enjoyed the opportunity to get to know and work with Dr. Samson and, on behalf of the Board, I would like to express our gratitude and appreciation for the work she has done in her first year with us. She is a champion of 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 values of integrity, inquiry, compassion and courage. As a strong advocate for the advancement of young women and children, we are already feeling the benefit of her focus on innovation, wellbeing and experiential learning. Thank you, Katrina.

Last but certainly not least, I would like to acknowledge our 2022 Grads. We are thrilled that you can celebrate your accomplishments with the meaningful traditions of this milestone and take with you cherished friendships and valuable learnings. As you embark on this next chapter, please remember that you will forever be a part of the 蜜桃视频 community. As you venture beyond the ivy, know that our very best wishes and heartfelt cheers accompany you on the road ahead.

As always, no message would be complete without a polite reminder that for any donation enquiries, please reach out to 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 Executive Director of Advancement, Annette Paul (apaul@havergal.on.ca), to find out how you can participate. We are all the beneficiaries of the generosity of those who have come before us and we encourage you to make an investment in 蜜桃视频 through a philanthropic gift. 

Best wishes to everyone for an amazing summer ahead!

Debbie Simpson

Relaunching The Forum for Change: 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 Global Heartbeat

Preparing young women to make a difference happens every day at 蜜桃视频, which is why we are thrilled to announce that鈥攕tarting in September 2022鈥攕tudents will be able to level up their ability and opportunity to make a difference through the relaunch of the Forum for Change (F4C). The F4C provides students with local and global learning experiences that will further the school鈥檚 purpose and develop in our students the attributes of 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 Portrait of a Graduate. The Forum for Change will offer Global Exchanges, International Learning Service Trips, Community Partnerships and the Global Learning & Leading Diploma. These deep and meaningful learning experiences equip students to make positive differences in the world with a focus on global mindedness. F4C programs are designed to provoke students to broaden their cultural fluency and make an impact locally and abroad.

Known as the “global heartbeat of the school,” F4C has extensive global networks and partnerships upon which to draw from, including (but not limited to) and the . We are also in the midst of applying to become a member of , which will provide our students with more character and leadership development. With and through these partnerships, the F4C will provide experiential learning opportunities with a focus on the idea of 鈥渓earning service,鈥� a term that is outlined by Bennett, Collins, Herschsher and Papi-Thorton in the book Learning Service as: 鈥渉umble, thoughtful action designed to do no harm鈥here learning and service interact in an ongoing cycle, with each depending on each other. This loop is fueled by self-reflection and applying learning to future action.鈥�(page 10, 2018) 

As we begin to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a strong call from parents, faculty and students for 蜜桃视频 to reestablish these Forum for Change experiential learning opportunities that stretch and challenge our students in ways that support their academic learning, development of identity and sense of self. 

More information about F4C opportunities for the 2022-23 school year will be shared later in June. If you have any questions about upcoming opportunities or F4C in general, please contact Garth Nichols, Vice Principal of Strategic Innovation and Design at gnichols@havergal.on.ca.

Preparing for the Journey Across the Bridge

Kate White, Head of Junior School, and Andrea Charlton, Interim Assistant Head of Junior School

As 蜜桃视频 moves through its post-pandemic renaissance, we are thrilled that our current Grade 6 class can benefit by being able to 鈥渓ook across the bridge鈥� to the Middle School in the most fulsome way possible. During this transition, they are being invited to consider the concrete differences associated with being a Middle School student and to recognize the skills and habits of mind they have refined while at the Junior School.

Since the March Break, our Grade 6 students have started a series of three in-person information sessions focused on what to expect in Grade 7, spearheaded by Head of Middle School, Mrs. Patterson and Middle School Math Teacher, Ms. Nichols, and enriched by insights offered by the Middle School Prefects (Zoe and Alexa) as well as members of the Middle School executive. The design of these sessions has provided the students with opportunities to learn about Grade 7 and life in the Upper School directly from students and faculty. These meetings are designed to include community building games and Q&A sessions through which the Grade 6 students have agency to ask whatever questions they have. 

Another concrete means of learning about what to expect next year involves our Grade 6 students visiting the Upper School dining room, where they will savour lunch on two occasions in this space. This will provide an opportunity for our students to gain a sense of the routine while discovering the variety of meal choices available to Upper School students.

Along with the specific information they are receiving about Grade 7, our Grade 6 students are also being invited to look ahead with confidence by thinking about the special tools they have already gained that will assist them with 鈥渃rossing the bridge.鈥� This reflection is nurtured through their personal narratives, as they showcase an aspect of their identity along with their own abstract art pieces created during 鈥渟tudio days,鈥� which were led by Nancy Macdonald, a former 蜜桃视频 parent and founder of Art Studio for Children ().

Our hope is that, by offering them key information and inviting them to take stock, our Grade 6 students will be ready to navigate the exciting adventure awaiting them upon reaching the Middle School. We look forward to hearing about all their new discoveries when they return for visits.

Celebrating Our Marguerites and the Class of 2022

Lindsay Norberg, Associate Head of School, and Maggie Houston-White, Executive Director of Strategic Enrolment Management

On Thursday, May 12, 蜜桃视频 honoured the Marguerites of 2022鈥�17 students who joined the school between Junior Kindergarten and Grade 1鈥攁nd their parents at a special reception. As Dr. Samson noted in her remarks to the group, these students were putting on their kilts and white running shoes for the first time when Barack Obama became President of the United States, Modern Family aired for the first time and Instagram was launched. Students and families were able to connect with the Junior School faculty and reminisce on their time together as they enjoyed photos from the Archives of their grades throughout the years of how they have grown up together. 

We are grateful for all of our families who make the commitment to work together with 蜜桃视频 to help prepare young women to make a difference. The Marguerite families have watched their children grow into graduates ready to take on the next challenge and partnered with us throughout the years to continue to move 蜜桃视频 forward, better tomorrow than we were yesterday. 

As we approach the end of the school year, we are looking forward to celebrating the Class of 2022 at events such as Prom, Grad Prayers, Candlelight Ceremony and our Graduation event on Friday June 17 under the white tent on Ratcliffe Field. 

The school spirit our Graduating students have embraced this year certainly lives up to the motto: “21-22, find the Gator in you!” The faculty, staff and entire community wish them all the best in their next chapters, wherever their paths take them; they are well prepared for life beyond the ivy and to make a difference for good in the world. 

The Portrait of a Grad and the Future of Work

Garth Nichols, Vice Principal Strategic Innovation and Design

The changing nature of the future of work has been described in many ways, including psychologist and Harvard Business Review contributor that defines two areas of learning environments: kind and wicked. Hogarth鈥檚 philosophy on the future of work is highlighted in David Epstein鈥檚 New York Times bestseller as leaning toward 鈥渨icked learning,” whereas machines may be leveraged for the more 鈥渒ind learning鈥� environments: “In wicked domains, the rules of the game are often unclear or incomplete, there may or may not be repetitive patterns, and they may not be obvious, and feedback is often delayed, inaccurate or both.鈥� (Range, David Epstein, pg. 21) 

As a way to address the realities of the future of work, 蜜桃视频 has developed educational experiences through our contemporary liberal arts program. HC-X initiatives and Forum for Change offerings are designed to prepare our students with the skills and mindsets that allow them to practise in these 鈥渨icked learning鈥� environments. 

In support of 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 mission to prepare our students for whatever the future holds, we developed the Portrait of a Graduate (POG), a well-researched project thanks to the incredible work of our faculty, as well as with research from within and beyond the educational sector (including the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, the World Economic Forum and UNESCO). Using 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 mission, vision and values as a guide, the POG articulates the attributes our students develop during their time at the school. This contemporary and aspirational framework supports the growth and learning of our students toward this dynamic future of work.

The Portrait of a Graduate is defined by eight aspirational attributes: globally-minded; empathetic; future-ready; flexible and adaptable; self-directed, lifelong learners; inspired to action; digital navigators; and leaders with integrity. Each of these attributes reflect a process, not a product, and each is a signal that affirms, guides and inspires our faculty and students in the creation of learning experiences. For example, we cannot expect our students to master all things digital; however, we do support and develop their skills in navigating the digitally mediated world responsibly and ethically. Through our , we support our students in the practice of how to lead with integrity. With HC-X programming, we challenge our students to unlearn and learn anew with innovative concepts and design thinking. These are just some of the attributes outlined in our POG, where our whole community is pulling in the same future-ready direction.

A Dedicated Parent Community

Alnar Meghji and Lisa Windover, HCPA Co-Chairs

Resilience, perseverance, ingenuity and dedication. These are some of the character traits we use to describe our family of volunteers on the HCPA, as well as the Upper and Junior School Grade Rep teams. 

For the past two years, we have experienced aspects of school and home life we never expected. We thought of ways to stay connected and we thought outside the box with an end goal in mind, which is to keep our school community connected and engaged. 

We planned and executed virtual and in-person events in order to bring families in our community together. We showed our staff, faculty and administrators just how much we appreciate them with several staff appreciation initiatives. We will continue to thank them for prioritizing our girls鈥� wellbeing, health and learning goals. 

The road ahead looks promising and when we look back at the last two years, we can be proud that we all played a part in creating and maintaining a strong link within our school community, for new and existing families and all of our girls. 

Thanks to each and every one of our volunteers!

Lastly, we would like to introduce the HCPA Executive Team for the 2022-23 year:

We welcome all our incoming and returning HCPA members and look forward to working with all of you! 

Wishing you a safe and happy summer with your families. 

Lisa and Alnar 

Gator Gala Online Silent Auction

Get ready to browse, bid and repeat!

The HCPA and Gator Gala Committee are excited to announce the recent launch of this year鈥檚 Gator Gala Silent Auction.

From exclusive 蜜桃视频 鈥渇ront-of-the-line鈥� opportunities and Graduation Day extras to sought-after vacation bookings, hard-to-come by sports memorabilia, art, jewelry, spa items and more, you鈥檒l find something for everyone on your list or even a little something for yourself (yes, you deserve it!).

The Gator Gala Silent Auction closes at 8 pm on Friday, June 10, so don鈥檛 forget to check back often!  

All proceeds will support the fundraising goals of the HCPA, including our commitment to the Limitless Campaign.

Used Textbook Drop Off

With another school year coming to a close, the HCPA has once again arranged for the Canadian School Book Exchange (CSBE) to collect used textbooks at 蜜桃视频 on Wednesday, June 15 from 7:30 to 11:30 am.

Families will be able to drop off their used textbooks directly into the CSBE truck, which will be parked in the North Parking Lot of the Upper School. Click for detailed instructions.

When your books are sold through the CSBE, a percentage of the sale will go back to you and a percentage will go toward the HCPA鈥檚 fundraising efforts. It鈥檚 a win-win!

Used Uniform Collection

Go Green (and Gold)!

The HCPA will be collecting your preloved skirts, kilts, tunics and blazers. Curbside drop-off will be available in the parking lot of the Junior School and the North Lot of the Upper School on June 15 from 7:30 to 9:30 am. 

In addition, drop-off bins will be located in the Junior School Lobby on June 15 and 16 and the Upper School Rotunda on June 15, 16, 20 and 21 until 5:30 pm each of these days.  

A Used Uniform Fundraising Sale is being planned for the fall. It will be a great way to stock up on backup pieces for those inevitable lost uniforms items. More details about the sale will be shared at a later date.

In addition to supporting the HCPA鈥檚 fundraising efforts, it鈥檚 a great way to reduce, reuse and recycle!

Thank You 蜜桃视频!

Marley Melbourne, School Captain

To the Students, Parents and Teachers at 蜜桃视频:

The time has come for my class, the Graduating Class of 2022, to say our goodbyes. 

Students鈥攊t has been an absolute pleasure to be surrounded by the most spirited group of peers in the city! When we bonded together to win the Toronto Mascot Award this fall, we simultaneously established ourselves as an enviable student body. We鈥檝e supported each other on the athletic pitches, in the theater, on the stage and in our classrooms. There is no better group of people to learn and thrive with. You are the best friends and the best cheerleaders a student could ask for.

Parents鈥攖hank you for giving the gift of 蜜桃视频. It is an immense privilege to attend a school where we are supported and challenged, uplifted and independent. Your continued support of all of our academic endeavours is thoroughly appreciated. We remember the early morning drop-offs, the after school help with homework and the consistent words of encouragement. Although we can never say it enough, we can try: Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Teachers鈥攜ou are truly the glue that holds this school together. Thank you for always doing more than what is asked of your role. When we express confusion, you clear your schedules to provide extra help. When we express curiosity, you enhance the coursework to allow us the freedom to explore. When we express achievement, you are there to cheer us on. It is a joy to know you not only as teachers, but as mentors and inspirations. 蜜桃视频 teachers are unmatched!

Thank you!

The Class of 2022

Principal’s Message

Katrina Samson

If they can see it, they can be it. Representation inspires possibilities. For young girls, seeing women in powerful positions inspires them to lead. At 蜜桃视频, we are committed to shaping the leaders of tomorrow and believe that this begins by championing leadership from a young age and within our own community.

The Harvard Graduate School of Education shared the report 鈥溾�� which highlights that one of the biggest barriers to leadership teen girls currently face is gender bias. In a survey of nearly 20,000 people, they found that both teen boys and teen girls have biases against teen girls as leaders. Some parents also carried this same bias. This eye-opening report outlines key findings and offers recommendations. I urge all 蜜桃视频 parents to give it a read and to share it with your children so we can shift this imbalance and challenge our own biases.

This research helps to underline the importance of what we are doing at 蜜桃视频: interrupting this social-ingrained gender bias. Our learners are surrounded by other girls who are leaders and women in leadership positions. What may be an exception in a traditional school is the norm on our campus. An all-girls鈥� school provides a unique opportunity to interrupt this gender bias before it forms. Throughout their 蜜桃视频 journey, our students benefit from leadership programming designed to support the development of courageous female leadership and our students are offered myriad pathways to develop their own leadership skills. 

We also emphasize that leadership comes in many shapes and goes beyond student governance. We show students the range of leadership possibilities through the five interconnected domains of student leadership: Community, Intellectual, Formal, Informal and Self. Whether it鈥檚 in the classroom or during co-curriculars, there are countless ways 蜜桃视频 students can choose to lead. From advocacy to athletics, our students are encouraged to step into powerful positions. In every facet of their community, they鈥檙e continuously exposed to female leadership from both our faculty and their peers.

Next year, we are introducing a new dedicated position: Director of Student Leadership. This role will focus on student programming from Junior School to Upper School, including the development of an explicit leadership development curriculum. Shaping the leaders of tomorrow begins with the opportunities our girls are given today. At 蜜桃视频, we鈥檙e committed to fostering the skills needed to help our students become courageous change makers, leading towards a better tomorrow. 

Katrina

Message from the Board of Governors

Lexi Ensor 2013, Chair of the Governance Committee for HOGA

As an ex-officio member of the 蜜桃视频 Board of Governors and Chair of the Governance Committee for the 蜜桃视频 Old Girls Association (HOGA), I am excited to share details about what we鈥檝e been working on at HOGA.

HOGA鈥檚 membership consists of 蜜桃视频 Alums/Old Girls and is led by a directorate, which is responsible for chairing each of our committees. We are proud to have more than 9,500 Alums/Old Girls in over 70 countries within our network. 

We are a volunteer-based organization that connects current and future Alums/Old Girls in meaningful ways that foster engagement within our community: 

Throughout the pandemic, all of this work was done remotely as we took advantage of our virtual environment to reach and connect HOGA members from around the globe in ways we鈥檝e never done before. 

As we begin to emerge from the pandemic, HOGA鈥檚 Directorate has been revisiting its strategic plan, which will guide our activities over the next several years. We are excited to formally launch this new direction to our community at our HOGA Annual General Meeting in the fall.

To our upcoming Grads: when you leave 蜜桃视频, you will always maintain an association to a network with benefits that will last a lifetime. We look forward to keeping connected beyond the ivy! If you are an Alum/Old Girl interested in volunteering with HOGA, please reach out to the Advancement & Community Relations Office at oldgirls@havergal.on.ca and they will be happy to connect with you to discuss.

We are also encouraging the 蜜桃视频 community to join our Alum/Old Girl platform . It’s a great way to connect with classmates, expand your professional network and stay connected on all things 蜜桃视频-related. We hope to see you there!

Lexi

Get Ready for House Shout!

We hope that students and parents alike are excited about the return of in-person House Shout this spring! The entire 蜜桃视频 student community will gather on the Ratcliffe Field on Tuesday, May 24 at 1:50 pm for an afternoon of House pride and spirit.

More details will be revealed closer to the date in the College Blogs.

Developing the Foundations of Leadership at the Junior School

Kate White, Head of Junior School

At 蜜桃视频, the development of leadership skills, whether formally or informally, are grounded in our values鈥攃ourage, compassion, integrity and inquiry. 

Starting in Junior Kindergarten, our youngest students are supported in seeing themselves not only as capable problem-solvers, but also as contributing members of a larger community. These are the foundational skills of leadership. Amongst other things, this can look like taking responsibility for putting away their own belongings, noticing and naming their feelings or making guided choices regarding participation in a learning area.   

As students mature and move through the Junior School, they actively engage with their teachers in establishing classroom norms. In addition, students often rotate jobs within the classroom, helping their community to run smoothly (e.g., watering plants, cleaning tables before lunch, handing out papers). These opportunities assist in developing the ability to identify both individual and group strengths and challenges, as well as setting goals, which are all crucial leadership skills! 

More formal leadership roles are introduced in Grades 5 and 6. Whether assisting kindergarten students as they walk to class, organizing House Activities, supporting a community partnership or identifying a school or wider world issue that needs to be addressed, students are provided with multiple opportunities to develop their skills. This includes working together as a team, active listening, considering multiple perspectives and having the ability to bounce back from setbacks.

By the time our Grade 6 students are ready to make their transition to Grade 7, we are confident they will be prepared to take on new and more challenging leadership opportunities in the Upper School.

Formal and Informal Leadership at the Middle School

JJ Patterson, Head of Middle School

At 蜜桃视频, the Middle School is designed to celebrate, support and nurture students through developmentally appropriate instruction, activities and opportunities in and out of the classroom. In order to be well-prepared for the Senior School, faculty in the Middle School focus on helping students develop their sense of self, identities and independence as they cultivate their personal and academic toolkits. Part of this personal development is through a variety of leadership opportunities recognizing that leadership comes in many forms.

In the spring, Grade 7 students are able to nominate themselves for one of the following formal leadership positions: Arts; Sports; Sustainability Council Representatives; or as Executives on the Middle School Council. After taking the courageous step to nominate themselves, students prepare short speeches to share with their peers prior to an election taking place on April 26 (today!). Grade 8 students will go through their formal leadership nomination and election process in the fall of Grade 9. 

Despite these formal leadership titles, we also teach Middle School students that a title is not necessary in order to make a difference and lead. They are encouraged to get involved with informal opportunities such as organizing, volunteering and supporting the school and student programming. By providing a variety of different opportunities inside and outside the classroom, the aim is to encourage each student to develop agency by having their voice heard as we offer choices in how they can contribute meaningfully to the 蜜桃视频 community. In doing so, all students are continually developing, practising and refining their emerging leadership skills. 

Senior School Student Elections

Mary Ann Krotz, Manager of Student Engagement

It is the time of year when our Upper School community comes together to elect our student leaders for the next academic year and we’re very proud of all of the students who have put themselves forward for 2022-23. Our Boarding School, Clubs, Community Partnerships, Alliance and Affinity groups and Performing Arts ensembles held elections within their memberships in early April, while Grade Representatives, Senior Year Presidents, House Captains, House Executives and Prefects elections took place today, April 26. Students are invited to open house council and executive meetings, as well as 鈥渞eal-talks鈥� with current student leaders. These opportunities help to better understand the various roles and work involved in serving the 蜜桃视频 community.

蜜桃视频 believes strongly in offering a variety of leadership opportunities and we value and promote students who seek to lead beyond the ivy walls as well. Whether it be volunteering in their local communities or in extracurricular pursuits, it takes courage for young people to believe in their abilities and share their skills where they know they can be most impactful.

While elected positions will be announced on Monday, May 2, we are grateful to have a talented and passionate student body who will, in all capacities, serve as thoughtful leaders.

Digital Microcredentials

Garth Nichols, Vice Principal Strategic Innovation and Design

HC-X is launching an exciting new program that gives students the opportunity to earn digital microcredentials to deepen and extend their learning. Upon completion of a particular learning outcome, students will receive a blockchain-based digital credential鈥攕imilar to a certificate of completion鈥攖hat is cryptographically verifiable, secure and unforgeable. HC-X has partnered with Alums/Old Girls, 蜜桃视频 parents, Harvard Student Academies and Inspirit AI to offer digital microcredentials in Contemporary Finance, Pre-Med and Artificial Intelligence in the upcoming 2022-23 academic year. The purpose is for students to use microcredentials to build their own experience, demonstrate new learning in their online portfolios and carry these with them beyond 蜜桃视频. Microcredentials help to showcase students鈥� areas of interest, and their developing skills and can be shared on social media channels like LinkedIn.

蜜桃视频 is proudly partnering with Toronto-based technology company to provide the platform where students鈥� digital wallets will live.

A Message from the HCPA

We are thrilled to be getting back to what we do! Our mission of parent engagement is best supported by in-person opportunities for us to gather both in-school and in our community.  

Our volunteers are the backbone of our parent association and we are fortunate to have so many engaged parents who give their time and attention to a variety of important fundraising and community-building roles at the school. Parents are delighted to be back in the school to support Founders鈥� Day and the New Family Evening. In addition, our amazing team of Performing Arts volunteers are currently supporting the production of the Middle School musical theatre review 鈥淲e are all in this Together鈥� by sourcing costumes and props as well as assisting with hair and make-up for the shows. We are particularly excited about this collaboration between students, the school and parents.    

HCPA spring events will be held in their traditional formats and we are excited to get back to some of our fundraising initiatives, so please watch for details on the upcoming Used Textbook and Used Uniform drives.

JS A-Mazing Race

The HCPA’s 2022 JS A-Mazing Race Chairs, John Harlow and Richard Denis, are looking forward to bringing this event back on campus! The race will be held outdoors on Sunday, May 15 from 1 to 4 pm, taking advantage of 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 beautiful campus and the milder spring temperatures. House teams will compete against each other in a series of five friendly challenges鈥攁ppropriate for participants from JK to Grade 6 and their adult partner鈥攆ollowed by snacks and refreshments.      

Get ready to show your House spirit! 

Moms鈥� Night Out

After more than two years of limited opportunities to get together, 蜜桃视频 moms are not going to want to miss this year鈥檚 in-person Moms鈥� Night Out (MNO)! 

HCPA MNO Co-Chairs Mary Dean and Mekhul Verma have planned an 鈥淎peritivo鈥� evening under the stars and a long-overdue opportunity to reconnect with each other. This always-popular, sold out event will take place on Wednesday, May 18 at Tutto Pronto from 7 to 10 pm, taking advantage of their open air patio as well as their warm and inviting indoor space. 

US Gator Gala

Get ready for the Gator Gala! As voted by you, the HCPA’s traditional Father Daughter Dance has had a name change, but not a change of heart! 

This year, we will be honouring springtime in the City of Light with a 鈥淧assport to Paris鈥� themed event to be held at Parkview Manor. Please join us the evening of Thursday, June 9 at 6:30 pm and celebrate the special bond with your 蜜桃视频 daughter(s) while enjoying an elegant evening of dinner, dancing, time-honoured traditions, games, prizes, a silent auction and more!

After two years of lockdowns, restrictions and limited social gatherings, we hope you will join us to celebrate together and share in this special night.

鈥攖he deadline to purchase is Friday, May 6, so don鈥檛 delay! 

HCPA Faculty and Staff Appreciation Event 

It goes without saying that the past two years have given our parent community a heightened sense of gratitude for the role that 蜜桃视频 faculty and staff play in the lives of our children. The tremendous dedication on display when we consider the stability of the learning environment, along with a continued focus on wellbeing, has not gone unnoticed. We have a great appreciation for the tireless work that has gone on behind the scenes to make this year as close to normal than it has been for quite some time.

On Tuesday, May 24, the HCPA will host a whole school Faculty and Staff Appreciation event, known fondly as the 鈥淚vy Pub鈥� in the Temerty Commons. The Staff Appreciation team of Sherry Zhao, Dee Dogru, Tammy Neal and Blair Wilson are planning a fantastic event to show our cherished staff and faculty just how much they are appreciated!

What Student Leadership Means to Me

Hannah C., Admissions Prefect

In September 2021 I was tasked with the most intimidating assignment to date: preparing for the return of school spirit after the pandemic. Sitting at a Harkness table with the other newly-elected Prefects, ideas were zipping through our heads and tumbling out of our mouths. What kind of legacy did we want to leave as student leaders? 

As I reflected on this question, I recalled why I wanted to become a student leader in the first place. Before high school, I believed there was a single cookie-cutter approach to leadership. Over my career at 蜜桃视频, I have seen leadership manifest in inspiring and unexpected ways in the student body. Whether it’s watching a student-directed play, listening to a Land Acknowledgement in Prayers or witnessing a challenge to the status quo, I am constantly learning and benefiting from the leadership of others. I am thankful for the contribution of every student whose leadership has made me laugh, think and question the world around me a little more.

Underpinning every act of leadership is the trait of courage. It takes courage to ask for help, to take action for what we believe in and to own up to our missteps. The pillar of courage is one I leaned heavily on last March 2021. As an Asian woman living during a period of global heightened anti-Asian vitriol, I felt suspended in a limbo between my western national identity and eastern cultural roots. Empowered by past acts of leadership I had witnessed in the student body, I rallied a group of peers to organize a virtual Prayers surrounding anti-Asian hate crimes addressed to the Upper School. While equity, diversity and inclusion remain a significant area of work at 蜜桃视频, the resilience and tenacity of 蜜桃视频 students continually exemplify what leadership is to me. 

The words of Maya Angelou capture my sentiments best: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Looking back at my time at 蜜桃视频 as a Grad, the legacy I aspire to leave is to have made people laugh, think and question the world around them a little more.

Shirley Garcia

Executive Director, Human Resources

A strong communicator with broad and deep HR leadership experience, Ms. Garcia has successfully led initiatives that foster people development and growth, high engagement and an inclusive culture. She joins 蜜桃视频 following her most recent role as National Director, People & Culture at March of Dimes Canada, where she supported large-scale organizational changes and developed high-impact talent management strategies.

Ms. Garcia is a Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL), a Certified Training and Development Professional (CTDP) and earned a BA in Mass Communication and a degree of Master in Management from the Asian Institute of Management. An enthusiastic lifelong learner, she also achieved professional certificates in Strategic HR Leadership from Cornell University and Adult Training and Development from Schulich Executive Education Centre at York University.   

In her spare time, Ms. Garcia gets into the mindset of learning by reading diverse subjects and engaging with presentations such as TED Talks and others. Her other interests are travelling and discovering international and local places and cultures, as well as hiking and being in nature, which she enjoys doing with her family. For her, these interests provide new experiences that create new and meaningful memories, all of which are great for her wellbeing and work/life integration.  

Principal’s Message

Katrina Samson

As we head into the last stretch of the school year, we鈥檙e reminded that in a few short months our Grade 12 students will become 蜜桃视频 graduates. When they head out into the world, we want to ensure our graduates leave prepared to be women of influence. To equip them to be agents of positive change, we believe that an education that places girls at the centre of learning plays a critical role. 

蜜桃视频 faculty explore history, world issues, math, science, innovation and humanitarian issues through the lens of women. Putting the girls鈥� perspectives at the centre of our learning helps instil confidence and inspire our graduates to do the work still needed to build a more equitable world. As International Women鈥檚 Month comes to an end, it鈥檚 important to celebrate the progress that has been made while acknowledging that there is still a great deal of work to be done. Empowering our students to become the leaders of tomorrow means ensuring that they leave 蜜桃视频 prepared to take what they have gained here to advance the role of all women in our society. 

During the Senior School years, our focus is not only on their academic enrichment, but also on equipping them to make the transition to university. We tailor our Wellbeing Program to focus on important conversations about wellbeing skills with student and parent communities. We discuss topics ranging from the importance of getting enough sleep to developing and sustaining healthy relationships, habits and skills that they will take into adulthood. 

Our belief in the value and impact of a female-focused education is supported by data and statistics. In their 2018 report: Fostering Academic and Social Engagement: An Investigation into the Effects of All-Girls Education in the Transition to University, researchers concluded that girls鈥� school graduates 鈥渁re more engaged academically and socially than their co-educated peers,鈥� and when compared to their female peers at coed schools, girls鈥� school graduates:

If there is any doubt about the role of an education that focuses on girls鈥� needs, one only needs to examine the outcomes associated with girls鈥� education to see the difference schools like 蜜桃视频 make.

By investing in high-quality girls鈥� education in the primary and secondary years, we are making future investments toward increasing power and representation in places where women continue to be under-represented. In doing this important work advancing women鈥檚 equity, we are positioning ourselves exceptionally well to extend our privilege to help ensure the same rights that we have fought for and continue to advocate for are extended to others鈥攖o people of colour, our Indigenous community, gender diverse people and those who benefit from allies who support their efforts for inclusion. I want to encourage our community to continue to champion girl-centred learning while also advocating for a more equitable world for all. With our collective support, our聽 graduates will play an important role in shaping a better tomorrow.

Katrina

Message from the Board of Governors

Brad Radin, Chair of The 蜜桃视频 Foundation Board of Trustees  

The 蜜桃视频 Foundation is a registered charity that both receives and invests donations to support key priorities for 蜜桃视频. The Foundation oversees an investment portfolio of mostly donor endowed funds, currently valued at $32,000,000. These endowed funds have been gifted over time by parents, Alums/Old Girls, graduating classes, faculty and staff. The Foundation disburses 4% of the value of the endowed funds annually to the school, exceeding the 3.5% Canada Revenue Agency requirement.

Working with investment advisors and in accordance with the Foundation鈥檚 Investment Policy Statement, the Foundation ensures that its resources are prudently invested with the aim of both growing and preserving capital, while maintaining the ability to provide stable grants to the College for priorities such as student financial assistance.

The Foundation is governed by a board of nine Trustees, including ex-officio appointments of 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 Board of Governors and a member of the 蜜桃视频 Old Girls Association.

Because 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 annual revenues must cover not only the present year鈥檚 expenses, but also capital investment and infrastructure costs, fundraising is an essential ingredient to maintaining 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 ongoing fiscal health and viability. We are grateful to generations of donors, past, present and future, for their generous contributions and ongoing belief in 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 mission.

Founders鈥� Day Celebration

Building a Better Future on Strong Foundations

Save the date for a special Founders鈥� Day parent and student celebrations at 蜜桃视频 on Thursday, April 21. Parents are invited to join their daughters for on-campus activities at the Junior School from 8 to 10 am and at the Upper School from 2:30 to 4 pm. 

More details to come soon. We look forward to seeing you on April 21!

New HC Swag on the HCPA Marketplace

HC Puffer Jacket

The HCPA is thrilled to announce that (for a limited time only) 蜜桃视频 puffer jackets will be available on the HCPA Marketplace. We know how much everyone loves to layer up and stay cozy!  

We are delighted that these versatile black jackets are available in youth and women鈥檚 sizes. The jackets will have the 蜜桃视频 crest embroidered in white on the chest. What a wonderful way to show your HC Spirit!

HC Towel

Whether you鈥檙e searching for a towel for swimming lessons, the beach or the dock, it鈥檚 always great to have an extra on hand. For a limited time, 蜜桃视频-branded towels are available for purchase through the HCPA Marketplace. 

The puffer jackets and towels are only available for order until Friday, April 8, so visit the HCPA Marketplace to order yours today. Both items will be distributed via porch pick up in early May, with collection details to follow. All profits from HCPA Marketplace sales help fund parent engagement activities and the HCPA commitment to the Limitless Campaign.

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Making Connections Through Arts and Technology Courses

Kasia Ulbin, Senior School Art Teacher

Projects in both Media Arts and Communications Technology courses at 蜜桃视频 are designed to engage students in creative expression through the use of digital media. Each year guest artists and speakers are invited to our classroom to offer a lens on career opportunities in the media industry while sharing how photography and film can serve as powerful tools for communication.

This year, the Grade 10 Media Arts students engaged in an interactive artist talk by award-winning Photojournalist to consider the authenticity of telling stories through photography. Students were invited to question the images they see in the media while reflecting on their own experiences and participation in image creation. 

As a final project, students were invited to participate in a Toronto school-wide youth group exhibition at . This was an opportunity for participants to create image based work as an expression to the theme 鈥淪ilver Linings,鈥� further exploring photography as a tool to communicate meaning.

Students in the Communications Technology Grade 11 course engaged in a talk with documentary filmmaker , discussing the reality of working on passion projects while managing to be a successful woman entrepreneur in the film industry.聽

They explored questions such as: how can we use filmmaking as tools to advocate for change and give voice to marginalized communities, allowing individuals to tell their own stories? How can we use art to foster community and serve as a reflection of the time we live in? 

Grade 11 student Azadeh H. says of the experience: 鈥淟earning about the importance of authentic storytelling and elevating the voices of people of colour really gave me the vision to have my mother tell her wedding story in her mother tongue. The production of my short documentary opened my eyes to the beautiful traditions of South Asian culture as well as my religion of Islam. Creating short documentaries inspires others to stay in touch with their culture and to learn about others.鈥�

As a final project, students further learned about conducting effective interviews, framing concepts and editing to plan and produce their own short documentary films on a topic of interest. 

The Art Department is grateful for the opportunity to bring in guest artists to help contextualize the genres of their work and why it鈥檚 important to the world today.

Cross-Cultural Engagement Through Language Learning

Emily Rodriguez, Senior School Spanish Teacher

This year in my Spanish classes, it has been my goal not only to teach my students language skills in the curriculum, but also to make concrete and tangible connections to the many cultures that exist in the Spanish speaking world and communities. 

An example of this is through music, where I have my students learn about the various styles of Hispanic and Latin-American music and then learn the lyrics to a variety of songs. I was fortunate to be able to organize a special virtual event where my students had the opportunity to learn about, meet and talk to an up-and-coming musician from Mexico, Eddie Luno, who happens to be my nephew. 

Before the event, my students learned one of his songs by memory and then performed and recorded a video of his song. They were able to share this video with Eddie and it was a wonderful opportunity for cross-cultural engagement, connection and communication. 

贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 Senior School Business Club

Wendy Hendry, Business Studies Teacher

DECA is a student business case competition designed to prepare emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management. In the past, 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 DECA team has had many successful years in which students competed in regionals, provincials and even international business case competitions. Unfortunately, as a result of COVID-19, DECA Ontario had to take a pause for the 2021-22 school year. This presented a challenge for Business Club Heads Taylor J., Mandy W. and Cindy W., which they took on with enthusiasm. In place of DECA, they organized opportunities for the 蜜桃视频 Business Club to participate in a wide variety of business-focused competitions (more than the group had in the past), which the 蜜桃视频 students excelled in. Here are some examples of what they did:

We couldn鈥檛 be prouder of Angelina and all of our HC Business Club participants.    

This spring, our Business Club students can look forward to case competitions with Brock University, Rotman School of Business and another financial literacy competition with University of Waterloo. We wish them the best of luck!

Indigenous Education Partnership Brings Authentic Experience to Complex Ideas

Adam Caplan, HC-X Director, and Denise Hartford, Social Sciences Teacher

In late February and early March, 蜜桃视频 was excited to have the opportunity to borrow the map as a way to engage our community in Indigenous studies. However, when the delivery of the map was canceled because of shipping issues, Indigenous Education Consultant Mike Carlson found new ways to bring learning to life through the power of oral history.聽

Carlson, a mixed Indigenous educator at the TDSB鈥檚 碍补辫补辫补尘补丑肠丑补办飞别飞鈥�Wandering Spirit School, joined 蜜桃视频 for a week of conversation and community with students and educators in programs ranging from Grade 7 Social Studies to Grade 12 Economics to the Global Learning & Leading Diploma (GLLD). 

Social Sciences teacher Denise Hartford describes the impact: 鈥淲hen students see artifacts such as a Wampum belt and hear first-hand about its significance, they experience the importance of the oral tradition. Seeing a photograph of a belt doesn鈥檛 capture the human component of history.鈥�

In Economics, complex ideas about currency, trade, wealth and property rights are put into the context of big questions, such as 鈥渨ho owns the land鈥� and 鈥渉ow we manage its resources.鈥� It was enriching for students to contextualize competing views of resource extraction and concepts such as specialization with economic models set out in the curriculum.

We extend our gratitude to Mike Carlson, Indigenous Education Consultant, Anastasia Wowk, Manager of Learning Experiences, and the many faculty who helped create connections to this experiential partnership.

Team Gators Develop Innovative Environmental Solution to Freshwater Pollution

蜜桃视频 students (and sisters) Emily and Errita X. (Grade 11 and 10) joined forces as Team Gators to develop a solution to global warming for The Earth Prize, a $200,000 environmental sustainability competition for teenage students with the best solution to accelerate positive change toward environmental sustainability, as judged by The Earth Prize Adjudicating Panel.

The 蜜桃视频 community is so proud of Team Gators for being named as top 10 Finalists in this global competition. We asked Emily and Errita to tell us more about their project; here鈥檚 what they said: 

鈥淚n October, Ms. Wowk from the HC-X sent out an invitation in the Upper School announcements to sign up for The Earth Prize competition. We were attracted to the opportunity of working with a large network of mentors and gaining more knowledge about environmental sustainability, while applying our knowledge on business management. We truly had no expectations or intentions of getting as far as we did.

Our proposal was to create custom macroalgae farms for cities near the Great Lakes and partner with bioplastic manufacturers as a supply chain to effectively change urban consumerism. There鈥檚 no doubt that climate change is a pressing issue. But, the most pressing problem lies in our waters, the H₂O compound that is now bombarded with pollutants, excess nutrients and low levels of dissolved oxygen. After seeing videos and articles about aquaculture in China and Australia, we were attracted by the feasibility yet effectiveness it can bring. Alarming statistics show that lakes absorb over a third of all carbon emissions and 90% of excess heat, which leads to dead zones, imbalanced ecosystems and poor water quality. Macroalgae will effectively and affordably remove toxins, carbon, excess nutrients and restore balanced ecosystems.鈥�

Congratulations to Emily and Errita for their dedication to helping the Earth! We would also like to acknowledge another group of students from 蜜桃视频鈥擳eam Goddess (Carol R., Kaitlyn D. and Carina D.)鈥攚ho also participated in the competition with a carpooling app.

Torch Magazine Goes Digital

The first ever digital issue of Torch magazine will hit your inbox soon. We can鈥檛 wait to share this issue with you, which you can enjoy from your favourite device!

Here’s what you can look forward to in this year’s edition:

If you don鈥檛 receive an email from the Communications & Marketing Team with your link to Torch magazine in the coming weeks, please visit havergal.on.ca/magazine/ and contact us at communications@havergal.on.ca to get on the next mailing list.

Happy reading!

The Importance of Skills Development in the Senior School

Deirdre Timusk, Head of the Senior School

If the events of the past few years have taught us anything it is that the need for globally-minded, innovative leaders who act as catalysts for change are needed more than ever before. Our Portrait of a Grad guides us as we design programming that will help students become courageous leaders for the future.  

As our students progress through adolescence and into early adulthood, we know that their needs will change. As a result, the program at 蜜桃视频 has been tailored to meet those changing needs. 

In the Senior School, students learn the skills they need to critically interpret the events in the world around them from different vantage points. Visual and digital arts help to spur their creativity and encourage students to view their surroundings in a new light. The projects are designed to help give students voice and choice in their work.

The study of languages also provides a new perspective on the world. American journalist Flora Lewis once said, “Learning another language is not only learning different words for the same things, but learning another way to think about things.” These new ways of thinking and knowing are also developed by having conversations with people from outside our community who can help students see different perspectives. In addition, students are challenged outside the classroom to take part in competitions that hone students鈥� thinking skills and encourage them to be able to use their digital skills to be innovative and creative thinkers. 

These are just some of the ways the Senior School is helping to develop independent decision makers who will become globally-minded citizens, able to thrive in the complex and changing environment that is our world today. We need them more than ever before.

Danielle Kindree

Head of Science, Upper School

Ms. Kindree joined 蜜桃视频 in the fall of 2021 after working at Appleby College as the Head of Science and Technology for five years. She has 21 years of experience as a Biology and Science teacher at co-ed and single sex schools both in Ontario and internationally (in Belgium and Egypt). During her 11 years of teaching internationally, she visited more than 75 countries and earned certification as an advanced open water scuba diver.

With a Master’s degree in Education from the University of Bath (England), a Bachelor of Education from Western University and a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology/Biology from McMaster University, Ms. Kindree has an interest in aligning the teaching of science to thematic questions and in interdisciplinary studies.

Outside of the classroom, Ms. Kindree loves to practise yoga and participates in all sports鈥攔ugby and basketball are her favourite activities, which she played for many years. She is an avid sewer and enjoys making all kinds of items, from clothing to bags to table runners. At home, she鈥檚 kept busy with her two-year-old daughter Ellis and two active cats.

Principal’s Message

Katrina Samson

As parents and as educators, we know that Middle School is an exciting time of exploration and transition. We want to ensure our students have a safe and supportive space to explore new skills and interests as they begin to exert their indepence. At 蜜桃视频, we believe that shaping the strong female leaders of tomorrow begins with fostering a growth mindset today.

Throughout this key development stage, we encourage our Middle School students to try new things, keep an open mind and step out of their comfort zones. We work to instill in them the confidence to explore, while simultaneously reducing the pressure girls of this age often feel to be perfect. The Middle School years are a period of immense neurological development for girls. As adults, we think mainly with our prefrontal cortex, which centres on judgment and the understanding of long-term consequences to our actions. Because of the way the brain develops, teens rely more heavily on the amygdala when processing information. The amygdala is the emotional-response centre of the brain. This influences the decisions teens make, and we need to remember that teens are prone to feeling more than they are to rational thinking. This is also why they need parental and teacher encouragement to try, to explore and to take risks in a safe environment. They naturally feel more self-conscious and their concern for what others think increases at this age, so they do need encouragement to step outside their comfort zone, along with support in understanding why their emotions are so strong and powerful at this stage of their lives.  

It鈥檚 with this understanding of adolescent neurological development that we craft our Middle School Program. We know that ages 11 to 14 are key opportunities to have new experiences that foster strong and varied neurological pathways, teaching their teenage brains that they can try something new, they can challenge themselves and they can succeed. This process of exploration and repeated patterns of trial and error serves as the foundation for their confidence as young adults. The Middle School Program at 蜜桃视频 is designed to provide students with the right balance of support, structure and choice to help girls thrive during this transformational time.

Our Form Program provides students with age-appropriate wellbeing sessions to help nurture the learning, social-emotional and interpersonal skills that are important in their development and will help set them up for long-term success.

To encourage exploration, our Co-curricular Program gives students the opportunity to discover new activities, explore and experiment safely while building confidence in a multitude of other disciplines in arts, athletics, community service and global learning. Students have the flexibility to develop new skills or discover new passions.  Equally important, girls are challenged to try something they never thought they would try, and with that, learn what they enjoy and what they do not. With a wide range of nearly 30 clubs, they can investigate interests ranging from Robotics to Drama.

Lastly, we want to ensure our students can access the support they need during this time. For this reason, we offer additional 1:1 development support. This individualized approach is different for every student and is offered to whatever degree is necessary. For some, this could mean working with a dedicated Middle School guidance counsellor or their Form Teacher. For others, this might be 1:1 time with the Head of Middle School. Finally, Middle School students have access to a variety of other health and wellbeing supports including a school social worker, nurse, athletic therapist or athletic trainer.

Linked is a good article outlining the changes in brain development that happen during adolescence, along with tips for parents to encourage healthy habits in their teens. As we strive to empower the leaders of tomorrow, we look forward to working with 蜜桃视频 parents in encouraging this phase of exploration and growth. By instilling a passion for learning and fostering a growth mindset, we can help ensure our students have the future-ready skills they鈥檒l need to lead in an ever-changing world.

Katrina

March Break

The last day of classes before the March Break is Thursday, March 10. 

All students must take home all of their belongings from their lockers during this time.

Classes resume for all students on Monday, March 28鈥�.

We wish everyone a restful and engaging March Break!

Highlights of the Middle School Performing Arts Program

Cissy Goodridge, Director of Performing Arts

The start of 2022 has been busy for our Middle School students in the Performing Arts.
 
On January 25, the Brenda Robson Hall was alive with sounds from our Grade 8 music classes. While our families could not come together for a live concert, our students and their teachers prepared a recorded video of their music showcase. The showcase featured performances by the band, vocal and string classes and was a delight for all who watched. .
 
The Middle School Dance Troupe has been working regularly every Wednesday afternoon and their debut performance was shared in Prayers on January 20. The dance was set to Am I Wrong? by Nico and Vinz and was choreographed by the students. 
 
Now that the academic Grade 8 Band course has finished, the Grade 8 Co- Curricular Band will start rehearsals in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for an email from Ms. Spigott with more details about rehearsals.
 
After March Break we will be starting auditions for the Middle School Musical Theatre Club. This musical review will showcase songs from a variety of musicals. If you like to sing and dance, Musical Theatre Club is for you. 
 
Bravo to all of our performers!

Athletic Opportunities Keep Middle School Students Moving

Carla Di Filippo, Athletic Director

Throughout the pandemic, 蜜桃视频 never lost sight of the importance of athletics in relation to the wellbeing of our students. Athletes were thrilled to have the opportunity to put on their green and gold team uniforms and compete for the Gators. With a focus on reaching the most students, a priority was made to offer a range of different sports with various levels of competitiveness. 

All of our traditional athletic opportunities were back this fall, such as field hockey, basketball, soccer, swimming and cross country. In addition to these, two new sports were introduced: tennis training and disc golf. Tennis training was perfect for students who wanted to try tennis for the first time or work on their tennis skills with committed coaches. Disc golf is a fast growing sport with courses all over Toronto, including one on our very own campus! This fall students practised and played tournaments against other schools and even travelled to E.T. Seton Park to play on a professional level course. 

The competitive spirit continued into the winter season with sports such as badminton, volleyball, swimming and alpine skiing. Just like the fall, we wanted to offer more opportunities for our students to participate in athletics. With the purchase of new cross country skis and the enthusiasm of Mr. McCulloch, nordic skiing was the obvious choice. On any given day, you can find a team of students making their way around Ratcliffe Field training for the CISAA finals. We also offered a U14 Hockey Team for the first time in 蜜桃视频 history. With no other school offering a girls team, the squad plays in the CISAA boys D2 non-contact league. It is an honour to watch the team battle it out on the ice as the only all-girls team in the league. 

Looking forward to the spring, we will be offering our most popular sports in ultimate Frisbee, tennis, track and field and softball. We are also offering rugby 7鈥檚 in the Senior School to build off our strong U14 touch league and a brand new Golf team. 

After a period of uncertainty during the pandemic, building strong relationships with others is a priority. There is no better way to meet others, gain confidence and reconnect with your classmates than through sport. Our Middle School students have done just that!

Perseverance, Resilience and the Middle School Play

Jennifer Mills, Middle School Drama Teacher

Another year, another show! However, this year saw Middle Schooler鈥檚 taking on some of the greatest challenges we鈥檝e yet to encounter. With the unpredictability of whether or not we鈥檇 have a live audience, students showed incredible adaptability in adjusting to ever-changing circumstances. To accommodate COVID-19 restrictions, we selected the play Ten/Two by Lindsay Price. This allowed us to keep Grade 7 and 8 students separated while maintaining a large cast and crew. And while we missed the mixed-grade bonding, students were afforded the unique opportunity to take on a significant acting challenge: two-hander scenes. 

Our tech crew also learned more than ever by taking on greater responsibilities in lighting, sound and show-running. Finally, our design team did an absolutely gorgeous job creating our set. They took ownership over their designs and blew me away with their creative interpretations of the script.

We had one of the largest groups of students ever, with 61 students involved across acting, tech and design roles. Each student approached their role with great seriousness and I am immensely proud of how this group handled uncertainty this year!

Photos and a recording of the show .

HCPA 2022-23 Nominations Open

Deadline: Friday, March 25 at 9 am

Are you interested in becoming more involved in the 蜜桃视频 community? Now is your chance! The nomination process for the 2022-23 蜜桃视频 Parent Association (HCPA) is now open and there are a wide variety of positions for parents in both the Junior and Upper Schools. Please read our for more details and a full description of each volunteer position open for nomination. 

It is very easy to become more involved in the 蜜桃视频 community, connect with an amazing group of parents and have some fun along the way. Nominate yourself or another parent for any of the open positions. Don鈥檛 delay, the deadline for submissions is Friday, March 25 at 9 am.

More detailed information about the HCPA nomination process, timeline and the HCPA code of conduct . A complete list of all HCPA Committee positions can be found .

GO-VAXX Mobile Vaccine Clinic at 蜜桃视频 

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

GO-VAXX is a partnership between the Ontario government and Metrolinx, whereby GO buses have been converted to serve as mobile vaccine clinics to provide a safe, reliable and convenient option for people to receive their COVID-19 vaccine. 

Walk-ins are available, while supplies last. To book an appointment, visit the or call the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900. Bookings are available beginning Friday, March 4 at 8 am. Visit for more information and watch for reminders on our social media channels.

Message from the Middle School Prefects

Zoe and Alexa

Middle School was an immensely formative time of our lives. We still remember our MS Prefects from Grade 7: Meg and Steph. Though we don鈥檛 remember their last names, we will never forget the joy, life and fun they brought to the Middle School. It has been our goal to do the same.

When we entered the Senior School, we lost touch with the Middle School, but it has been amazing to be able to reconnect with such a memorable part of our time at 蜜桃视频 as Prefects. We have especially enjoyed leading our MS Council made up of 11 Grade 8 and 12 Grade 7 students. As formal leaders, it has taught us how to mediate large groups and has given us the opportunity to support budding leaders. With the help of our fantastic council, we have planned wildly successful events like our Halloween Movie Night. After two years of COVID-19 restrictions, it was an incredible way to safely gather the Middle School community for a fun social event. We were happy to plan it and thrilled with all the positive feedback we received!

Another part of our role that is not as obvious is getting to work with our outstanding advisor, Mrs. Patterson, the Head of the Middle School. Not only is she organized and down-to-earth, but she also loves and cares about each and every student. Her passion and appreciation is contagious and it has been an absolute pleasure to work with her. 

Though not everything has gone as planned so far this year, we wouldn鈥檛 change a thing. The Middle School is where the magic happens and we are so grateful to be a part of it again.

Jennifer Goldberg

Upper School Head of English and Drama

Jennifer Goldberg is the Head of 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 English and Drama department and a Middle School Form teacher who currently teaches Grades 7 and 12 English. She holds three degrees from the University of Toronto: an Honours Bachelor of Arts, a Bachelor of Education and a Masters in History. Her scholarship has been published in Historical Studies in Education and she has presented at the National Association of Girls鈥� Schools, Conference of Independent Teachers of English and the 蜜桃视频 Summer Institute. She has taught every grade in the Upper School and worked cross-departmentally in the Social Sciences, on the Admission team and as 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 Chair of Teaching and Learning.

As part of the Middle School team, Ms. Goldberg feels privileged to work alongside colleagues who are experts in both their subjects and the learning needs of middle years students. She sees firsthand how the Middle School鈥檚 focus on discipline-specific understanding and thinking establishes the foundation for a high school experience marked by rich growth, challenge, and opportunity.

When she鈥檚 not in teacher mode, you鈥檙e likely to find Ms. Goldberg listening to an obscure podcast, baking her way through her latest cookbook acquisition or trying to broaden her toddler鈥檚 reading taste beyond his current favourite book, Toot.

Principal’s Message

Katrina Samson

With the start of 2022 well on its way, we鈥檙e pleased to welcome all of our students back on campus for in-person learning. Like many of you, we were also disappointed to shift to another period of remote learning; however, we forge ahead as we work, learn and play together at 蜜桃视频. The last two years have been challenging for all of us in many ways and we’re committed to our students鈥� wellbeing and supporting them during this unpredictable period.

As we are learning about and seeing the effects the pandemic has had on learning and development, we are paying special attention to how difficult this has been for our youngest learners. With this in mind, we are focused on supporting students in the development of key social skills, such as naming emotions and identifying what鈥檚 at the root of our feelings. These skills help ensure that our younger students are able to express emotions and share with the teachers, parents and caregivers how they are being impacted, enabling us to better respond to their needs.

Equipping our students with these necessary skills has been made possible with our great Social-Emotional and Learning Support Team, including the specialized skills of a Child and Youth Worker and a Social Worker. To provide additional social and emotional support, our teachers have spent a lot of time throughout the fall adapting their lessons in consideration of our students’ needs, and to meeting our students where they are at.

While this has been a challenging time for children, we鈥檙e aware that this has also been taxing on parents. As partners in your child鈥檚 education, we want to reassure you that鈥攚hile your child鈥檚 learning journey may look different than you expected鈥攚e will continue to adapt and evolve to ensure our students have both the support and skills they need. We鈥檒l also continue to support 蜜桃视频 parents in this ever-changing landscape. With that goal in mind, we are organizing a speaking engagement with Dr. Alex Russell (child psychologist and author of Drop the Worry Ball). Once confirmed, more details on this event will follow.

We鈥檝e learned that we can鈥檛 predict the changes to come, but 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 faculty and staff are committed to being a constant support and resource for students and parents alike. With wellbeing and future-readiness at the core of our curriculum, we鈥檙e confident we will equip and empower 蜜桃视频 learners for whatever the future holds.

Katrina

Message from the Board of Governors

Debbie Simpson, Chair

In this first issue of Inside 蜜桃视频 for 2022, it is my pleasure to offer New Year’s greetings to the 蜜桃视频 community from the Board of Governors. I wish you all happiness and good health in the coming year.

As we approach the end of the first semester, I鈥檇 like to note the commitment of our faculty and staff in delivering the best experience possible for all students has been unwavering. I would also like to thank our parent community for their confidence in trusting the College to safeguard their daughters鈥� learning and wellbeing, their belief in the value of a 蜜桃视频 education and their support of the school community. Our students have demonstrated remarkable resilience in adapting to this new and demanding environment with your support. 

At this time, I would like to remind everyone of the invitation from the Board of Governors to apply to serve on the Board or on a Board Committee, as mentioned last month. I encourage you to become involved. This year the committee is especially interested in identifying potential candidates with senior level experience in finance (CPA, CFO) and strategic change management as well as those with philanthropy/fundraising expertise. We are also very interested to hear from parents with students in the Junior School. The due date for applications has been extended to Friday, February 4, and all applications will be reviewed in February. Interviews will take place in March for those selected. More information can be found at /leadership-governance/board-governor-roles-responsibilities/. Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at dksimpson@rogers.com.

As I look back on what we have accomplished so far this school year, I see our values at work. Thank you all for your efforts and support as we navigate through these trying times together.

Debbie Simpson

Re-registration 2022-23

The link for registration for the 2022-23 school year will be sent to families in a letter from Debbie Simpson, 蜜桃视频’s Board Chair, on Thursday, January 27. Completed re-registration forms are due, along with payment, by Tuesday, February 8.

The Admission Department appreciates your prompt response, as our re-registration numbers help guide us in the number of offers we will make to new families later in February. Please do not hesitate to contact Maggie Houston-White (mhw@havergal.on.ca) if you have any questions.

Family Day Long Weekend

February 18 to 21

There are no classes on Friday, February 18 and Monday, February 21 for the Family Day Long Weekend. Classes will resume on the morning of Tuesday, February 22.

We hope that families have the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing and safe break.

Supporting Student Wellbeing at the Junior School

Megan Robar and Sarah Szolopiak, JS Health & Physical Education Teachers

This year in the Junior School we have been continuing to grow our Wellbeing Program to meet the needs of the students at each age and stage. From connecting with emotions, creating inclusive classrooms, developing growth mindsets and embracing mistakes, the students have developed strong tool kits to support their own personal wellbeing. 

The Wellbeing Program is linked to our Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, which has helped students dive deep into who they are and develop an understanding of the people in their community. In mid-November, we had the opportunity to implement Thrive Week, which provided students with different ways to foster and maintain positive mental health. The Five Thrive components that we focused on at the Junior School include: 

By the end of the week, the students had developed strategies to support all five components to flourish and build an understanding of who to rely on when their Five Thrive might not be enough. 

The concept of Thrive is something we will circle back to throughout the year as a way to enrich connection and build continued wellbeing support. 

Learning and Growing in the New Junior School STEM Lab

Darryl Reiter, STEM Coordinator

The re-opening of the Junior School STEM Lab last fall was a welcome and long-awaited occasion. The former lab was closed in 2016 to accommodate the renovation of the Junior School and was relocated to the new wing in 2021. This modern space embodies the notion that the learning environment is the third teacher and comprises different zones for different instructional purposes.

At 1,400 sq. ft., the new space is double the previous lab and features a demonstration amphitheatre, mobile work desks, a whiteboard wall and a large outdoor learning area. A wall of windows overlooks the Burke Brook woodlands.

Students use the space for 60-minute STEM explorations, when they perform science investigations and design challenges.

Recent projects include:

The Junior School community is grateful for the generosity of our donors, who helped to make these new and inspiring spaces a reality.

Digital Wisdom

A Junior School Program Foundation for Thriving in the Digital Era

Adam Caplan, Director of HC-X

Kids growing up in the digital era face unique challenges and opportunities that require a new kind of approach. Enter HC-X鈥摫岵贡贡鸢挡贡翕�檚 Innovation Hub鈥揳nd our innovative course, Digital Wisdom. Informed by research from the World Economic Forum and the OECD, this program is part of the school鈥檚 Strategic Direction, . 

At 蜜桃视频, Digital Wisdom is a course that runs over four years鈥揻rom Grades 5 to 8鈥搘ith the goal of building students鈥� knowledge, skills and mindsets with increasing complexity and sophistication as they grow. Students learn to navigate various opportunities and reflect on the challenges of digital culture and the impacts on their online and in-person lives. 

Through Digital Wisdom, students in Grades 5 and 6 get to know their rights and responsibilities as Digital Citizens. They build an understanding of personal information and privacy and they begin to actively steward their digital footprint. By investigating the impacts of disruptive technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence, students become equipped with the tools to adapt and thrive no matter what the future brings.

Now in its second year, Digital Wisdom weaves together to build a foundation for thriving in the digital era. 

Mother Daughter Breakfasts

The Mother Daughter Breakfast events at 蜜桃视频 have become an annual tradition enjoyed by select grades in both the Junior and Upper Schools. While this year鈥檚 events cannot be held in-person as originally planned, the HCPA鈥檚 mission of fostering community spirit is the primary objective. Our event Chairs have been hard at work planning a creative version once again this year with the promise of some fun and special memories for both moms and their daughters in Grades 1,5, 7 and 9 on the following dates. 

If your daughter is in one of these grades, you will receive an email invitation in the coming weeks.

Inclement Weather Procedures

The Principal or her designate makes the decision to close or cancel school. The safety of students, faculty and staff are a priority. Situations such as extreme weather conditions or the loss of essential services (e.g. water and/or power) may require the school to close. The school consults the, the (as well as other schools) in making a decision regarding school closure due to inclement weather. In the case that 蜜桃视频 is closed to inclement weather conditions (i.e. snow day), remote learning will not occur. 

When information warrants the school will be closed the following day while students are at school:

When information warrants that the College will be closed prior to the school opening on the same day, the decision shall be made by 6 am:

When information warrants the school will close and Day students will be sent home during the school day:

Learn more about any of 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 policies and procedures on the Family Handbook website: .

贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 Annual Impact Report

Released before the holiday break, 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 2020-21 Impact Report features inspiring stories from our donor community鈥攊ncluding parents, alumni and former faculty鈥攁nd also contains colourful infographics, a snapshot of the school鈥檚 past fiscal year, stunning photos of our newest learning spaces and donor recognition lists. With the Limitless Campaign coming to a close, we celebrate and thank our generous donors for their ongoing support, which helps ensure that young learners are inspired and encouraged to realize their full potential.  

Explore our in an easy-to-read ebook format or via the giving section of our website.

What Does It Mean to Thrive? 

Kate White, Head of the Junior School

This is a question that we have asked our students in Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 to get curious about this year during our first ever Thrive Week. Originating in 2009 at the University of British Columbia, the concept for Thrive Week is a time to come together as a community to learn about, talk about and explore ways to support our mental health. We are deeply aware that the last two years have brought about unprecedented challenges, particularly as we have shifted between being on campus and learning remotely. The impact on our mental health cannot be underestimated. 

By starting these conversations with our youngest students in Junior Kindergarten, it normalizes the subject, supports them in developing a greater understanding of their own mental health and helps them to build toolkits of skills and strategies to build resilience. 

Research has shown us that there are five consistent ways to help promote a positive mind. Referred to as the 鈥�Thrive Five,鈥� these are: Moving More, Sleeping Soundly, Eating Well, Giving Back and Connecting/Saying Hi. We know, however, that fostering and maintaining mental health cannot be isolated to one week, so we continue to focus on thriving year-round. 

For this reason, as we returned to campus after another round of remote learning, one of our goals for the remainder of the year is to continue to challenge students to 鈥済et curious鈥� about the things that make them thrive. From curling up with a good book, meditating, spending time with family and friends, laughing, connecting with animals and expressing ourselves through art, there are so many ways to boost our mental wellness so we can continue to flourish no matter what challenges the future may hold.

Dora Scharf

Junior School French Teacher

Mlle Scharf joined 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 Junior School as a French teacher in September 2020. Prior to arriving at 蜜桃视频, she taught French to students across various grade levels from Kindergarten to Grade 8 at the Ottawa Jewish Community School.

Mlle Scharf enjoys helping students develop their language skills in a nurturing and stimulating learning environment. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from McGill University, a Bachelor of Education from the University of Ottawa and a Masters of Education in Social Justice Education from the University of Toronto (OISE). She has experience coaching soccer and leading Arts programming.

In her spare time, Mlle Scharf loves to cook, read and browse fashion blogs. She enjoys traveling both domestically and internationally and is working towards visiting all 50 states (seven more to go)! Like any native Montrealer, she loves a good bagel.

Principal’s Message

Katrina Samson

As the upcoming holidays approach, 蜜桃视频 students, faculty and staff are looking forward to a season of joy and time spent with their loved ones. At this time of year, we also reflect on the generosity of our community and the importance of giving. This is especially true as we express gratitude for the past donors who have helped build the 蜜桃视频 of today. From our facilities to our programming, the evolution of 蜜桃视频 has been and continues to be made possible by people who invest in our future.

Philanthropic investments in 蜜桃视频 have an ongoing impact and allow us to offer exceptional experiences that inspire our students to make a difference. The reality is, however, that when it comes to philanthropic support, giving to boys鈥� schools has historically outpaced that of girls鈥� schools. Some research even illustrates that the gifts to boys鈥� schools exceed those to girls鈥� schools by as much as $4 to $1. Providing equal opportunity to and making equal investments in our students plays an important role in the quest to achieve gender equity, and to show girls that we are prepared to invest in them equally. As we strive to shape the leaders of tomorrow, your philanthropic support of 蜜桃视频 illustrates a commitment to educating and empowering young women, and I believe that with the generosity of our donors, 蜜桃视频 can be a beacon for this commitment to the advancement of women and girls.

Recently, I came across this  information sheet by the United Nations that outlines the benefits of closing the gender gap. Research repeatedly shows that educating girls and making opportunity for women across the globe to participate in the workforce contributes to economic growth and positively impacts health outcomes. At 蜜桃视频, we are committed to our mission of creating a more equitable world鈥攏ot just for our students, but for all students. Your gifts support this vision and help us create and inspire the future ready leaders our world needs to in the quest to create this equity across the globe.

If you鈥檇 like to learn about the areas where your gifts can make a difference, visit our . You can also champion exceptional students by supporting our Financial Aid program, which gives deserving students the opportunity to attend 蜜桃视频. As always, we are so grateful for the generosity of our past and present donors whose support of our community and of girl鈥檚 education make our commitment to excellence possible.

Katrina

Message from the Board of Governors

Debbie Simpson, Chair of the Board of Governors

On behalf of the 蜜桃视频 Board of Governors, I want to express our deepest gratitude to you, our community, for the success of the Limitless Campaign; the school鈥檚 largest fundraising endeavour to date. With a tremendous show of support, we not only achieved our goal of raising $21-million, but we surpassed it by raising an incredible $21.8-million.

Our students are benefitting daily from the beautiful new spaces that you helped make a reality. In the Upper School, the beautiful classrooms for art, social sciences and technology and the light-filled Learning Commons, featuring the Old Girls BioWall, are abuzz with activity every school day. Similarly, in the Junior School, the STEM, art and music classrooms along with the updated gym and beautiful Dining Hall are enhancing the learning experience for our youngest students.

As a not for profit, your donations, like those who came before you and those who will follow, show your continued belief in and relevance of our mission and help to sustain the level of excellence for which we have become known. Thank you again for your support of our wonderful school!

Debbie Simpson

Applications for the 蜜桃视频 Board of Governors

Alison Glober, Chair of the Governance Committee

I have the pleasure of writing to the 蜜桃视频 community on behalf of the Governance Committee of the Board of Governors as this is our formal call for applications to serve on the Board or on a Board Committee.

The primary responsibility of the Governance Committee is to ensure that the Board is well-equipped to carry out its oversight role with respect to the College. Part of that responsibility is to continually evaluate how well the Board and its committees carry out their mandates and advance the College鈥檚 educational mission.

One of the most important things the Governance Committee works on is the identification and nomination of strong candidates for the Board and its committees. This is an ongoing effort as we try to maintain a roster of broadly qualified candidates. Using a competency-based model, the committee identifies skills and constituencies that need to be considered as we plan for the future.

In reviewing applications, the Governance Committee looks to constitute a Board that balances a mix of competencies and experience, established and newer Old Girls, current and past parents, as well as independent members who are neither 蜜桃视频 alumnae nor parents. The Board is also committed to ensuring there is representation from members of the Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC) community whose skills and experience align with our competency framework.

In assessing applications, the Governance Committee favours no particular professional background over another, but we frequently seek particular areas of experience and expertise. This year the committee is especially interested in identifying potential candidates with senior level experience in finance (CPA, CFO) and strategic change management as well as those with philanthropy/fundraising expertise. We are also very interested to hear from parents with students in the Junior School.

Governors are volunteers and must be willing to commit the substantial time, effort and energy necessary to fulfill the role and serve the school. It is also expected that a Board Governor will make 蜜桃视频 a personal charitable priority, within their means.

If you are interested in being considered for the Board or a committee, please let us know by by Friday, January 28, 2022. Additional details on the role and responsibilities of Board and committee members .

The Return of Carol Service

Join us on Wednesday, December 15 for our Christmas tradition that highlights 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 incredible student choirs. To celebrate the holiday season, Carol Service returns with beautiful Christmas carols and festive lesson readings in the school’s historic Brenda Robson Hall in the Upper School.

The students have been preparing for weeks and the halls are alive with festive music and solos. Our students in Grades 7 to 10 will attend Carol Service during the school day at 2 pm; parents are welcome to experience this service virtually through an online streaming service. Students in Grades 11 and 12 will enjoy the service in person and their parents are welcome to attend.

We look forward to welcoming our Grade 11 and 12 parents back into the school. Visitor information, including the screening process, will be shared with all Grade 11 and 12 families in a message from Cissy Goodridge, Director of Performing Arts.

Junior School families are also invited to attend virtually, if they wish. Details to be shared with Junior School families on Monday, December 13.

Junior School Christmas Concert

The Junior School community is invited to this year’s Christmas Concert on Tuesday, December 14 at 7 pm, where we will celebrate the holiday season with music from our talented students.

The rehearsals have begun and the students are looking forward to sharing their work with their families.

This hybrid concert can be enjoyed virtually by our Junior Kindergarten to Grade 5 students and their families. Grade 6 parents are invited to the Brenda Robson Hall in the Upper School for a live performance by our Grade 6 students. The concert Zoom link was included in the in the December 3 message.

To ensure the health and safety of our community, Grade 6 parents who wish to attend the event in-person are required to show their vaccine passports, wear masks and complete health screenings. This in-person event is conditional on a stable COVID-19 situation in the city. Families of Grade 6 students will receive instructions for the evening directly from Ms. Goodridge, Director of Performing Arts. Please note that an Ontario-approved proof of vaccination and identification will be necessary for entry.

Holiday Break

蜜桃视频 will be closed for students starting on Thursday, December 16. Classes resume on the morning of Tuesday, January 4. For more details on Junior School and Upper School return-to-class requirements, please refer to the College Blogs from the Heads of School:

鈥�
鈥�

We wish everyone a safe, happy and healthy Holiday Break and we look forward to reconnecting in the new year.

A Celebration of Our Donor Community

蜜桃视频 is fortunate to have a strong and dedicated community of friends and donors who believe in the value of our mission. With their support, we are able to provide our students with exceptional educational experiences. Important investments in our campus, financial assistance, faculty and programming have been possible through our community鈥檚 generous support.

As an expression of our gratitude, a beautiful, uniquely designed tribute has been created for 蜜桃视频 donors to permanently honour and celebrate their generosity. Located in the main entrance of the Junior School and in the new Student Commons in the Upper School, our donor walls have been conceptualized to be immersive in the telling of donors鈥� stories, recognizing the legacy of donations, and to meaningfully express gratitude to those who support 蜜桃视频 philanthropy, past, present and future.

These expressions of gratitude are in the process of being installed and we look forward to inviting you to celebrate with us in the new year. Paying tribute to 蜜桃视频 donors is a privilege and we are thrilled to have these remarkable displays installed in their honour.

International Giving Through SnapPay

Beginning this fall, 蜜桃视频 can now accept gifts via SnapPay, which is a safe, secure Canadian-based online payment gateway that accepts Chinese payment solutions. This provides 蜜桃视频 families who wish to make donations from their Chinese bank accounts the opportunity to do so in a secure, easy and accessible way.

For those who would like to learn more about international donations, please reach out to Lisa Zanlugo at lzanlungo@havergal.on.ca or 416-483-3519 x6524.

HCPA: The Spirit of Giving

Since the start of the school year, the HCPA has launched a number of fundraising initiatives. In line with this month鈥檚 focus on giving, funds raised through these initiatives are put toward the HCPA鈥檚 prior commitment to the Limitless Campaign and parent engagement. Moreover, the most prevalent element of giving comes from the HCPA鈥檚 dedicated group of parent-volunteers. To continue along with this theme, we would like to bring attention to the volunteers that lead these successful initiatives.

The HCPA Online Marketplace hit the ground running at the start of the school year by launching Mabel鈥檚 Labels (year-long) and Colibri litterless lunch bags (for two weeks in September). More recently, there was the launch of holiday season fundraisers including FlipGive, which provides families to support the HCPA鈥檚 fundraising goals through the purchase of e-gift cards and/or everyday items from over 700 retail brands (including online holiday purchases from Indigo). Through FlipGive, a percentage of sales comes back to 蜜桃视频. Thank you Anikka Foster for taking on the challenging task of launching these new initiatives this year, which will be available all year.  

The HCPA Holiday Marketplace was launched on Monday, November 1 and wrapped up on Thursday, November 25. It included a wonderful selection of holiday gift items such as scented candles, snow globes, wreaths, blankets, hats and scarves, all attractively photographed and easy to purchase from the comfort of our own homes. All of the items were sourced from local retailers and suppliers and many are Canadian made. A number of items were sold out within a few days of launching the initiative. Items ordered will be beautifully wrapped and ready for pick up at a convenient location the second week of December. A big thank you to Lisa Assaf and Beth Foley for spearheading this initiative and for adding their creative and professional touch, ensuring that there was a variety of appealing gift items at various price points and attracting a wide audience. We are excited to share that more than 200 items were sold at this year’s marketplace! 

Last but not least, huge thanks to Amy Cheung and Mahnaz Hamidzadeh for facilitating and coordinating sales of beautifully designed Custom 蜜桃视频 Frames and the ever popular 蜜桃视频 branded Lazypants. 

The HCPA would like to acknowledge all our amazing parent volunteers. In particular, we extend our appreciation to the team of 50 plus committee members who epitomize the true spirit of giving.

Reminder: Tax Year-End is Approaching. Donate Today!

Make your gift to the Annual Fund today to receive your 2021 charitable tax receipt! Your donation must be postmarked or completed online by Friday, December 31 to receive a 2021 tax receipt.

Your donation allows students to develop the confidence, independence and resilience needed to take on new challenges, pursue their passions and make an impact in their communities.

How to make a gift:

Thank you !

Coming Soon: 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 Annual Impact Report

We are pleased to announce that the 2020-21 Impact Report will soon be available to our community. The report provides a snapshot of the school鈥檚 past fiscal year, shares stories from our donors and celebrates the completion of the Limitless Campaign, which exceeded our fundraising goal, thanks to the generous support from our donors.

In keeping with 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 sustainability initiatives, the report will be available exclusively online as a digital Flipbook. A full listing of our donors will also accompany the report.

Look for the Impact Report on the giving section of our website next week! 

The Power of Giving

By Tony diCosmo, Executive Director of Advancement & Community Relations

In the fundraising world, we will often speak of the impact that a donor鈥檚 contribution will have on organizations and the communities we serve. At 蜜桃视频, this thought is at the forefront of all our efforts. It is critical that we inspire individuals who share our values, believe in our purpose to deem us worthy of support and wish to have a lasting impact on future leaders.

However, less is discussed about what motivates donors to give. Why do we choose to give funds, regardless of amount, to the charities that make an appeal to us in one way or another? The cynical will say it is simply for the tax write-off; while this is certainly a benefit that comes from making a charitable contribution, time and time again, it has been proven that it is not the prime motivator for most donors. People give to organizations and causes they value and often have touched them in some way: the hospital that cared for them or a loved one, the arts organization that brings them joy and intellectual stimulation, the school that helped them or a loved one grow to become successful in their lives, whatever that might look like. Donors are compelled to give because it feels good to do so.

The pandemic has brought the importance of personal wellbeing and paying it forward into greater focus. We know that people who are prone to altruism, to doing good for others and for their community are healthier, happier and live longer. In a recently published article in , Bryant P.H. Hui, PhD. at the University of Hong Kong states “Prosocial behavior鈥攁ltruism, cooperation, trust and compassion鈥攁re all necessary ingredients of a harmonious and well-functioning society鈥� It is part of the shared culture of humankind, and our analysis shows that it also contributes to mental and physical health.”

So while philanthropy can be transformative for a not for profit like our school, it also can bring joy and a greater sense of wellbeing for each and every donor.

Emily Anderson

Prospect Management & Research

As a member of the Advancement & Community Relations team, Ms. Anderson is responsible for conducting high quality research, identifying key connections and providing strategic recommendations to support the College in maximizing philanthropic support. Her previous work experience includes Program Assistant at OCAD University, Campaign Assistant at 蜜桃视频 and Assistant Buyer at J. Michaels. She has a Fashion & Textile Design degree from the University of Southampton and an Art Foundation diploma from the University of Gloucestershire. Her creative, positive and collaborative nature is an asset to the Advancement & Community Relations team.

Ms. Anderson enjoys exploring Toronto and the area and the great outdoors. Her favourite place in the city is sitting at the beach on Toronto Island and trying out new activities such as paddle boarding.

Principal’s Message

Katrina Samson

After the excitement of back to school, we have settled into routines again, which is a welcome change after the last year. While our campus is still full of energy and optimism, we鈥檙e aware that increasing workloads and shorter days are on the horizon and we want to ensure that wellbeing remains a priority at 蜜桃视频.

Wellbeing is essential to learning, and there is scientific support for Positive Education鈥攁 model that marries the science of positive psychology with the best practices in teaching and learning. If you鈥檙e new to wellbeing science, start with on Martin Seligman鈥檚 PERMA model and the key factors that promote flourishing. Inspired by the research on the importance of wellbeing, I have spent the last five years deeply invested in understanding and applying the science of wellbeing to schools. This year, I am excited to join 蜜桃视频 on this journey.

With the same focus we approach the teaching of mathematics and literacy, schools can鈥攁nd should鈥攃ommit to teaching practices that improve wellbeing. At 蜜桃视频, we鈥檙e dedicated to bringing intentional, researched-backed focus to wellbeing for our students, staff and faculty.

Over the coming months, you鈥檒l hear more about 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 wellbeing framework and our multi-pronged approach. November 22 to 26 is Thrive Week鈥攁 week focused on the education and promotion of wellbeing. On Monday, November 22, Upper School Prayers guest speaker and alum (Class of 1998) will share her personal journey on mental health as she brings this topic to the forefront.

We look forward to engaging with our community to help you learn, ask questions and understand how we are supporting your child鈥檚 wellbeing.

Katrina

Message from the Board of Governors

Diane Jeffreys, Chair of the Financial Sustainability Committee

The Financial Sustainability Committee is a committee of the Board of Governors. Our primary mandate is to safeguard the long-term financial sustainability of 蜜桃视频. As incoming Chair of the Financial Sustainability Committee, I have the pleasure of working in partnership with an engaged group of volunteers, as well as 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 Chief Operations Officer Laura Sims and Executive Director of Finance Johann McCormack.

Our committee members include current and past parents, Old Girls and senior leaders in the community. We look to involve a mix of individuals with a wide range of backgrounds and financial experience. This provides the opportunity to bring a diverse perspective to discussions and broad insights in support of the financial decisions the school makes.

This past year has brought with it the need to be agile, and the Committee has supported the school in responding to the changes that had to be made throughout the pandemic. I am proud of our faculty, staff and Senior Leadership Team for their dedication to delivering a 蜜桃视频 education amid ever-changing circumstances.

As students are coming back to what feels like a closer return to normal鈥攅njoying the additional space that the new builds have provided and a return to many co-curricular and athletic activities鈥攖he Financial Sustainability Committee is working with the Campus Management and Resource Development Committee, and the Leadership of 蜜桃视频, to ensure that the financial plans are in place to support the long-term strategic direction of the school.

Working with the school鈥檚 Chief Operating Officer, Executive Director of Finance and other senior leaders, we continue to focus on overseeing and monitoring 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 financial plan, both short and long-term. This involves balancing the interests of multiple stakeholders including students, parents, staff and faculty, and鈥攍ike all good financial plans鈥攊s a balancing act requiring careful consideration of a series of trade-offs. The topics that we regularly discuss include:

I am happy to report, as the Chair of the Financial Sustainability Committee, that 蜜桃视频 continues to be financially strong, benefiting from a disciplined, responsible and thoughtful approach to fiscal responsibility.

Diane

A Focus on Wellbeing

Meagan Yarmey, Director of Wellbeing

Although much has been written about wellbeing there is no single, agreed-upon definition. Many definitions refer to the presence of positive emotions (e.g. happy) and the absence of negative emotions (e.g. sad), as well as a sense of satisfaction with one鈥檚 life. Other interpretations suggest that the fulfillment of three psychological needs (autonomy, competence and relatedness) are the foundation of individual wellbeing. Flourishing, a term often used interchangeably with wellbeing, means to live within an optimal range of human functioning, encompassing qualities such as goodness, generosity, growth and resilience. As you can see, there are many different definitions to wellbeing and thus different approaches. 

What all the researchers agree on is that there is growing evidence that children鈥檚 wellbeing and achievement are positively associated. Student wellbeing, engagement and academic success are intertwined with gains in one area dramatically benefiting the other two. Our strategic approach to student wellbeing at 蜜桃视频 unites the development of both academic achievement and wellbeing into one comprehensive complementary pursuit. We have been designing and implementing a whole-school approach to wellbeing where we focus on wellness connected to academics in our day-to-day academic curriculum and co-curricular programming. Across grade levels, learning is happening within caring, empathetic and responsive environments with the overarching goal of developing cognitive and emotional resources for our students so they can be flexible and efficient learners. At the same time, they are gaining personal insight and awareness, honing lifelong social skills and building their resiliency mindsets by gaining greater self-confidence and agency to make positive life choices.

Our emphasis on supporting wellbeing extends beyond the dedicated time in the Junior School and Form Advisory in the Upper School through special speakers, programs and activities. One such activity is the upcoming Thrive Week (November 22 to 26). Working alongside the Wellbeing Prefects and student leaders, the Wellbeing department has planned keynote speakers on resilience and positive mental health. Over the week, students will be exploring “five golden rules” of helping a friend in distress as they learn more about mental health and wellbeing. The five golden rules are as follows: Say What You See; Show You Care; Hear Them Out; Know Your Role; and Connect to Help. As we continue to develop our understanding of the relationship between wellbeing and academic success, we will adjust our programming to support our students as they move through the grades. Our end goal is to have students who are academically successful and flourishing in all aspects of their lives. 

Athletics Return to 蜜桃视频

US Athletic Director Carla DiFilippo and JS Athletic Director Anna Bartlett

Athletics at 蜜桃视频 are keeping our students active this term. Junior School students have a wide range of athletic co-curricular opportunities scheduled during the school day and there are many before and after school athletic programs for students in Grades 3 to 6. In the fall, teams include Soccer, Basketball, Cross Country and Jump Rope. These teams are developing lifelong physical skills and are enjoying being competitive amongst each other.

In the Upper School there has been a smooth transition back to competitive sports through the Conference of Independent Schools Athletic Association (CISAA). On top of our traditional sports, we鈥檝e added a few new offerings such as tennis instruction and disc golf. This fall, our Rowing team participated in the Head of the Trent and we had more than 80 students participate in our fall Learn to Row Program. It’s been a gift to watch our athletes take to the fields again!

Encouraging Confidence and Nurturing Agency

The Learning Support Team

The Learning Support Team recognizes the individuality of each student and knows that every student learns in different ways. We aim to develop self-knowledge in students as learners as we encourage confidence and nurture their agency. We support every student to be their own person, challenge themselves and celebrate successes.

The Learning Support Team works in collaboration with faculty, families and clinical service providers to monitor student growth and provide interventions and accommodations that target specific learning and social/emotional needs. They consult with teachers to effectively differentiate their instruction for all students, provide individualized interventions for some students and support the implementation of accommodations for students with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). 

In the Junior School, early and intensive interventions are provided to students who may require additional support to meet grade level learning objectives. When students transition into the Middle School, the focus shifts to proactively supporting students through strategies designed to build their executive functioning skills, study skills and self-advocacy skills. As students move into the Senior School and prepare for post-secondary education, they build self-advocacy skills, develop an individualized toolkit of assistive technology and refine their executive functioning skills.

Creative Engagement Through The Performing Arts

Cissy Goodridge, Director of Performing Arts

The Performing Arts are alive and well at HC! This fall, the Junior School is running several arts programs including: Drama, Learn to Play Band, Steelpan Drumming and Dance. Students have  enjoyed returning to their private music lessons, which are being held in our new music practice rooms. This multipurpose room has given the students a wonderful space to practise with their ensembles. In the coming weeks, we look forward to giving you a virtual glimpse of what they have been learning.

In the Upper School, we have welcomed new and returning students to all Performing Arts Programs. Whether it’s singing in the choir, playing an instrument or learning a dance or a new character, you will find students rehearsing before and after school each day. They are enjoying engaging in their passions while connecting with their fellow performers. In-person private music instruction is available to students who are interested in learning new skills or improving their current skills.

The Upper School Guidance Program

Heather Johnstone, Head of Guidance

We are fortunate at 蜜桃视频 to have a team of six skilled and experienced Guidance Counsellors who work with other members of the Wellbeing Team to support our students’ needs within the Upper School. The Guidance Program is typically delivered through the Wednesday Form and Advisor Time in the morning and includes age and stage appropriate content on key topics relevant to students around course planning, university planning, managing relationships, social/emotional learning, executive function skills and transition skills. 

Alongside the group sessions, counsellors often meet one-on-one with students to address specific needs and questions they may have. In Grades 7, 8 and 9, counsellors arrange meetings throughout the year in addition to students always being able to book their own time by emailing their counsellor or stopping by the office. In Grades 10 and 11, we push students to be self-starters and to seek these meetings when they have questions. For students who do not come in on their own, we invite them for a check-in. 

We really want to create a sense of self-advocacy in our students as some require a lot of support while others are very content and capable of navigating the school landscape and do not wish to come in often. Our hope is that, by Grade 12, students are working with the resources that are put in front of them, working alongside their Guidance Counsellor and navigating their final year feeling confident in their own capacity and ability to seek answers to questions they may have of their counsellors. This will prove to be a very necessary skill for them as they transition to university the following year. Each grade has a Guidance class page on their Veracross Portal. This class is visible to parents and contains the information that was covered that week as well as any other relevant, guidance-related information (for example, the Grade 11 and 12 portal has a calendar of university admissions information sessions designed for senior students; the Grade 9 and 10 page provides some downloadable organizational resources and planners). 

Guidance Counsellors are always available to the students in this building to help with everything from the day-to-day problems common to all teenagers to the navigation of specific, individual problems or questions students have. It is important for students to reach out and, likewise, if parents have a concern or question, the Guidance Team is always happy to answer those queries directly on the phone, over email or (hopefully someday soon) in person. 

Relational, Social and Emotional Support

By Katelyn Kitson, MSW RSW (she/her), Upper School Social Worker

As the Upper School Social Worker, I have the privilege of getting to work alongside, learn from and support students in the 蜜桃视频 community. My role includes providing students with short-term counselling to support them with any relational, social and/or emotional concerns that may be affecting their wellbeing and mental health and/or impacting their ability to learn and excel at school. For example, I might support young people in developing their coping skills to better manage stressful day-to-day circumstances, which can manifest as anxiety and/or depression symptoms. 

Alongside this targeted work, I work with students to help them gain insight into and strengthen peer and family relationships. I have the unique privilege of learning about the strengths, narratives, insights and knowledge of our students on a daily basis. Students often come to see me when they feel they need a safe and confidential space to explore their emotions, in addition to learning new strategies and tools to support them in navigating various experiences. When appropriate, I help direct students to community resources and/or referrals to counselling/clinical professionals within the GTA for ongoing and longer-term support. 

In my social work practice, I draw upon attachment-centred, narrative therapy, trauma-focused and cognitive behavioural modalities. I deeply value prioritizing relationship-building while supporting young people in finding their worth and recognizing their strengths. Overall, I am incredibly passionate about fostering safe, secure and empowering relationships with students and am grateful to be a part of the 蜜桃视频 community.

Learning and Growing Through DEI

鈥淭he strength and beauty of 蜜桃视频 lies in our ability to authentically value and systemically serve the pluralistic identities of our students and staff,鈥� explained Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Manager Ms. Raagini Appadurai at Upper School Prayers on Monday, October 4.

Highlighting that pursuing DEI and social justice at 蜜桃视频 means that the school community commits to being constant 鈥渓earners and unlearners every day,鈥� Ms. Appadurai has worked with faculty to create spaces for dialogue and action through Affinity Groups, Alliance Groups and Brave Spaces designed for Upper School students. “For these groups to be impactful and serve their intended need, the learning around identity, intersectionality and discrimination for everyone in the community (not just those who are racialized or marginalized) must be ongoing.”

Ms. Appadurai encourages everyone to be a part of these opportunities. “We hope that the 蜜桃视频 community is proud and excited to be a part of a school that is committed to learning how to better care for all its students in the ways they need so that we can thrive together,” she says.

HCPA Fundraising鈥擧ow and Why

In a spring edition of Inside 蜜桃视频, we shared some of the reasons behind our support of the school鈥檚 mission and through our fundraising initiatives. 

Our multi-year pledge in support of the Limitless Campaign is a continuation of our partnership, helping the school to foster an environment in which our daughters develop the skills needed to thrive in the future and keep pace in a rapidly-changing world. We have designated part of our gift toward student financial assistance as a way to help make a 蜜桃视频 education more accessible.

We would like to share some of the ways that we will be fulfilling our mandate this year. In addition to traditional fundraisers such as the Used Textbook Return and sales of 蜜桃视频 branded items on our Marketplace (including the much loved 蜜桃视频 Lazypants), we are pleased to introduce new online fundraisers to complement our efforts.  

FlipGive

With FlipGive, the HCPA offers 蜜桃视频 “Friends and Family” the opportunity to buy e-gift cards and/or and purchase everyday items from over 700 retail brands. Popular brands include: Starbucks, Best Buy, Esso, Sportchek, Sephora and Apple.  

FlipGive will give a percentage of every purchase you make to the HCPA. Use to raise funds for HCPA FlipGive. Please note: you do not have to sign up with FlipGive to purchase gift cards or shop online. 

Indigo FUNraiser

We are pleased to introduce the HCPA Indigo FUNraiser. This is the perfect way to shop for the book lover on your list as well as to stock up on specialty items that make great host/hostess gifts. In case you need some inspiration, 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 Librarians have shared their with us! 

Kick-off your holiday shopping at Indigo by to shop for books, toys, gifts and games for the whole family. A percentage of purchases made using this link will go towards the HCPA fundraising goals.

HCPA Holiday Marketplace鈥擟oming Soon!

Given the success of our Holiday Marketplace last year, we have decided to reprise the Holiday Giving Made Simple sale. Watch for further details in upcoming communications鈥攜ou won鈥檛 want to miss this opportunity to purchase specially-curated gift items for everyone on your holiday list.  

Dr. Meagan Yarmey

Director of Wellbeing

Dr. Yarmey is an insightful clinician, researcher and educator with more than 20 years of experience in higher education and the private sector. Her background includes research and evaluation, health promotion and clinical treatment, and various leadership capacities within the mental and behavioural health and wellbeing sector. In addition to a PhD in Social Psychology from York University, her academic credentials include a Master鈥檚 of Social Work in Clinical Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier, a Master鈥檚 degree in Community Psychology from the University of Toronto (OISE) and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Guelph.

In her most recent role as Lead, Content Development, Mental Health Literacy Certificate at the University of Waterloo, Dr. Yarmey led the content development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation framework for the campus-wide Mental Health Literacy Certificate. She was also a Counsellor at the University of Waterloo providing crisis, single session, individual and group psychotherapy to undergraduate and graduate students. Her exemplary research background, combined with extensive subject matter expertise and experience, positions her to integrate wellbeing research and practice within our school setting.

Principal’s Message

Katrina Samson

After a year of starts and stops, openings and closings, ups and downs, our campus is once again alive with the chatter, excitement and energy of students, faculty and staff. With the return to campus, I appreciate that there is some worry that our time on campus might not last amidst this fourth wave in Canada, and that we may be, once again, required to go remote. These are real worries, but we cannot let those worries, those 鈥渨hat ifs,鈥� stop us from safely enjoying our time together. I am proud to report that our pandemic mitigation plan, which includes significant investment in air filtration, indoor masking, cohorting, enhanced routine cleaning and mandatory vaccination for eligible staff and students has been embraced by our community. In our , the team at 蜜桃视频 has prioritized connection, ensuring that we offer as many opportunities for students to build healthy, positive relationships with their peers and trusted adults within the parameters of the pandemic guidelines. Having watched our students over the last three weeks, I am proud to say that they have embraced those opportunities for growth and connection with great enthusiasm. 

In Principal Prayers in the Junior and Upper School, I spoke about failure and challenged students to think differently about it. Rather than seeing failure as something to avoid, something to be embarrassed or ashamed of, we should recognize failure as a critical part of learning. I shared some of the highlights from my own 鈥渇ailure r茅sum茅鈥� with students to highlight that making mistakes, when learned from, is one of the most powerful pathways to learning and growth that we have as humans. I cited an by Tim Herrera from The New York Times that inspired me to consider my obligation as a leader to share my own journey, including my failures, with others as a way to normalize struggle as a critical element of learning. As parents, teachers and leaders, we inspire hope, confidence and determination in our children when we share the times where we didn鈥檛 hit the mark and how we learned from those experiences. I encouraged your children to ask the adults in their lives about the times they failed and how they learned so they can recognize that the pathway of growth is not linear and we should not expect it to be.  

Over the coming weeks and months, I鈥檓 looking forward to connecting with many more members of the 蜜桃视频 community. I want to thank you for the warm welcome you have extended to me and my family.

Warmest wishes,

Katrina 

Message from the Board of Governors

Debbie Simpson, Chair of the Board of Governors

Hello to everyone鈥攖he Board wishes you all a huge welcome back! Whether this is your first year as a part of the 蜜桃视频 community or you are a returning family, I am sure you share my excitement in having all of our wonderful students back on campus. This year kicks-off with the return of co-curricular and athletic activities and I am particularly delighted to share that Dr. Katrina Samson, our 13^th Principal, is enjoying getting to know our school and community. Dr. Samson has had the opportunity to connect and meet with some of you already and we will continue to make that a priority鈥攐f course, working within the necessary safety restrictions and health protocols.

I hope that you and your family are well and have enjoyed some special moments together over the summer. At the school, the level of activity remained high throughout the summer as Faculty and Staff worked to prepare the campus for the safe return of our students. Safety remains our top priority and we thank you for your ongoing support of our health protocols. The campus was also busy over the summer as the team closed out the final touches on the new spaces at both the Junior and Upper School. I truly hope that this will be the year where we can have you back inside the buildings to see and appreciate these new spaces that the students are already enjoying. In the meantime, will give a sense of the completed spaces.

Some of you may have noticed the big sign at the entrance of the Upper School announcing that the Limitless Campaign is complete, exceeding its goal and raising a total of $21.8 million. This project would not have been possible without the generous donations provided by you, our community members. I would like to thank everyone who has supported the campaign, including the gift of time invested in the project from many, making this build possible.

I will close by wishing everyone continued good health 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 you devote to our community.

Warm regards,

Debbie

Health & Safety Reminders

A warm welcome to all new students and families and a welcome back to our returning community members. Over the past year, we have all been asked to adapt and shift in many ways. 

As we start the new school year, we realize there is a lot of new information and questions you may have about 蜜桃视频 programs and protocols. The is a key resource that outlines 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 wellbeing, academic and co-curricular programs as well as key policies and school-based information. The can be found in the Family Handbook; it鈥檚 an important document as it outlines the strategies we have put in place to help keep our campus safe and healthy as well as details about how programs have been modified. It also contains information about Toronto Public Health requirements and steps to take if your child is not feeling well. I recommend that you bookmark these documents and refer back to them regularly, especially when you have questions about policies, procedures and school programs. 

We appreciate your continued partnership as we work together to support all students to have a healthy, safe and engaging school year.

Lindsay Norberg
Associate Head of School

Campus Safety Protocols

We appreciate the care and diligence our community has taken to stay up to date with COVID-19 protocols. We have successfully implemented SchoolPass for wellness screening and for daily attendance. 

For guidance with wellness screening questions, please see our . 

For detailed instructions on when a student must stay home from school and go for testing, or for the requirements for returning to school after any COVID-19 related issue, please see the . 

Lastly, as a reminder, please continue to have a daily wellness screen completed in SchoolPass for each school day, regardless of whether your child is coming to campus. 

For further questions feel free to contact one of our nurses at covid@havergal.on.ca or the Junior School Health Centre (ext. 6516) or the Upper School Health Centre (ext. 4712).

The College Blog

贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 Heads of Schools distribute key messages to parents about school life through The College Blog. The Upper School message will come out every other Friday and the Junior School message will be published weekly on Fridays (or the last day of school, in case of a Professional Development day or a holiday). The Heads of Schools will send out a link to parents/guardians of the most current message, which will include previous issues if you continue to scroll down. 

Junior School Blog:

Upper School Blog:  

The Blog provides information specific to each school (Junior School and Upper School) that is pertinent to daily school life (such as up-to-date operational information, invitations to events, important dates and deadlines). Stay current by reading and bookmarking it.

Enhancing Safety & Efficiency Through SchoolPass 

Last year we spent a lot of administrative effort managing wellness screenings for students and employees. In order to address our needs, we explored a number of different solutions in the spring and selected to implement SchoolPass. 

While we were seeking a wellness screening solution, we found that SchoolPass offered benefits in wellness screening, convenience and safety:

Overall, SchoolPass offers us the opportunity to enhance our approach to safety while also offering some additional conveniences to parents.

Food Services at HC

蜜桃视频 is excited to partner with to elevate our food service offering and provide a variety of healthy and fun dining options to students, faculty and staff across campus. Led by General Manager Christilyn Manzano, along with Executive Chef Liri Jonuzaj, the Food Services team is looking forward to introducing some innovative concepts over the coming months to help transform the dining experience at 蜜桃视频. As we transition to working with Chartwells, we are starting the new Food Program with a simplified menu of quality meal options with several lunch combos to choose from each day. Be sure to keep an eye on our menus because we will refresh the available options throughout the Fall term by expanding the selection to add new seasonal items in order to keep things interesting. Don鈥檛 forget to place your lunch order online every Wednesday using our quick and easy order form. There are three different order forms to note, depending on your grade or if you are a faculty and staff member:

Junior School

Upper School

Faculty & Staff

If you have any questions about the Food Services program, please email the Chartwells team at chartwellsfood@havergal.on.ca. We look forward to serving you!

Upper School Fall Used Textbook Return

Tuesday, October 5, 7:30 to 11:30 am

Did you miss the spring Used Textbook Return? Or perhaps you have new textbooks you wish to return because of a class change? If so, the HCPA has arranged for the Canadian School Book Exchange (CSBE) to be at 蜜桃视频 on Tuesday, October 5, to accept your donations and to facilitate your returns.  

Students will be able to drop off their new or used textbooks directly into the CSBE truck, which will be parked in the South Parking Lot of the Upper School. 

For those planning to return a new textbook due to a course change, please follow these instructions:

You may also call CSBE to obtain a Return Authorization Number and instructions at 1-800-335-5043. These textbook returns should be brought in a separate sealed box from used textbooks with the Return Authorization Number inside.  

For those who wish to sell gently used textbooks, please follow these instructions:

Please ensure your books are placed in a sealed box with the Return Authorization Number and/or QR code slips inside. For multiple boxes, please place a printed copy of the QR code in each box. We ask that students bring their books to the truck and parents remain in their vehicles. 

When your book is sold through the CSBE, a percentage of the sale will go back to you and a percentage will go toward the HCPA鈥檚 fundraising efforts. It鈥檚 a win-win!

Announcing 蜜桃视频’s New Website

We are pleased to announce the launch of 蜜桃视频’s newly designed website. This refreshed online presence puts the user experience first and is designed to attract new families; communicate the value of a 蜜桃视频 education; attract top talent; be accessible by all people; and reflect HC’s values, program and brand. 

Our new site is built on WordPress with a design that is responsive, making it easy for visitors to access information on a variety of platforms, from mobile devices to desktop computers. When you visit, you will notice that the 蜜桃视频 narrative is more cohesive and visually appealing, supported by an updated navigation system, and the content is organized by school (Junior, Middle, Upper and Boarding Schools). There is an intentional call to action to apply now and the benefits of our second-to-none education are highlighted on designated grade pages. 

For prospective families looking to join our community, information about the admission process and requirements is tailored to ensure a seamless enrollment experience. We are also very proud that our new site is compliant with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), meeting and exceeding World Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 Level AA standards.

The Communications and Marketing team would like to thank the select parents, current and prospective students, faculty and staff who participated in our user testing and contributed content.

Inside the HC-X Innovation Hub

HC-X is the hub for the development and delivery of innovative teaching and learning. As an integral part of 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 Strategic Direction鈥斺�攖he HC-X team and the programming developed within represents the future-ready mindsets, strategies and learning experiences that will be a differentiator for 蜜桃视频 students and faculty. 

This fall, we launched the second year of our Digital Wisdom Course for students in Grades 5, 6, 7 and 8. This course is a personalized, responsive learning experience that supports students in navigating a digitally-mediated world while maintaining a stable concept of identity and values. The course design incorporates Wellbeing and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion as key outcomes.  

HC-X also leads a team of Junior and Upper School Faculty through the development of a Blended Learning Model that prioritizes student agency through the use of blended learning practices. 

贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 Global Learning & Leading Diploma is an innovative, application-based program from HC-X that provides student-driven experiences in which they develop and practise global knowledge, skills and mindsets, combined with experiential learning. Students gain a foundation to deal with complexities and tackle their big questions using transdisciplinary approaches and supported by strong Faculty mentorship. 

At 贬补惫别谤驳补濒鈥檚 HC-X, the future of education is being designed with intention, applying research and consultation within and outside the educational sectors, to find ourselves as we pursue the North Star of HC 2020+.

Dr. Katrina Samson

Principal

Katrina Samson is a vibrant, passionate educator who is committed to a student-centred approach. She held the role of Head of School at Appleby College since 2010 and previously held positions as Director of the Upper School and Assistant Head of School, Student Life while teaching English literature throughout her tenure. 

Her energy and enthusiasm underpin her solid professional credentials. Dr. Samson has an impressive educational background with a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education from Queen鈥檚 University and continues her involvement with the school as a member of the Queen鈥檚 University Council. Her post-graduate studies include a Master鈥檚 degree from the University of Ottawa and a PhD in Educational Leadership and Administration from the University of Toronto. Her dissertation and research focused on leadership and succession planning in Canadian independent schools. 

A strong advocate for the advancement of women and children, she has carried her passion to her volunteer role as a board member for Armagh (a transitional housing and support program for women who have suffered domestic abuse), and as a co-teacher of the 鈥淲omen in Leadership鈥� module for the Canadian Accredited Independent Schools Leadership Institute. 

Her life experiences as an established educator with a focus on innovation, wellbeing and experiential learning鈥攃ombined with her passion for creating leadership structures that allow for the growth and development of leaders within schools鈥攊s an asset for the 蜜桃视频 community.