Thursday 17 December 2015

Message From the Head of Junior School: December 17, 2015

Dear Parents,

Although my final message to you in 2015 is brief, it comes from my heart. On behalf of all the faculty  and staff, we wish you a very happy and safe holiday filled with good times with family and friends.

Best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, I look forward welcoming you back in January!

Warmly,
Leslie Anne



CO-CURRICULAR CLUBS - Winter Session Dates
Mondays:
ABT Ballet: January 4, 11, 18, 25, February 1, 8, 22, 29, March 7 @ times advised by Ms. Wade
Chess Lunch Club: January 11, 18, 25, February 1, 8, 22, 29, March 7 @ 11:50-12:50 pm
Squad Volleyball Team: January 11, 18, 25, February 1, 8, 22, 29, March 7 @ 3:45-4:45 pm

Tuesdays:
Brain Busters & Games Galore Clubs + SIT/Primary: January 12, 19, 26, February 2, 9, 16, 23, March 1 @ 3:45-4:45 pm
Junior Choir: session dates to be advised by Mr. MacLean @ 3:30-4:15 pm

Wednesdays:
Ukulele Club & SIT/Junior: January 13, 20, 27, February 3, 10, 17, 24, March 2 @ 3:45-4:45 pm
Primary Choir: session dates to be advised by Mr. MacLean @ 3:45-4:15 pm

Thursdays:
Crafty Science, Lego Engineering, Photojournalist's Clubs + Squad Karate: January 14, 21, 28, February 4, 11, 18, March 3, 10 @ 3:45-4:45 pm


GATOR CARE SIGN-UP
Online sign-up for Gator Care is available again, please access through your Veracross page. You can find Gator Care registration under portal links on the parent portals located on the right hand side of the page. If you are having problems, please contact the IT Service Desk at: 416.483.3843, extension #6663, or email: servicedesk@havergal.on.ca


SIT - A MESSAGE ABOUT COMMUNITY PARTNER - NEW CIRCLES
Last week, New Circles invited two of our Grades 2's, Lilly and Isla, to come and see where all of the clothes we had collected during the winter clothing drive ended up. We saw where the clothes are stored, sorted and displayed, and also a few of the volunteers and clients. New Circles asked us to pass along a big THANK YOU to all of the Havergal families who donated so generously. Lilly and Isla had a lot of great questions for New Circles on our visit. We learned that they distribute 200,000 pounds of clothes every year to families who need support, and that they have also partnered with Lifeline Syria as their official clothing provider. We also learned that New Circles collects gently loved clothes seasonally and could use our help again in the spring as they prepare for warmer weather. Stay tuned for more information about our next clothing drive! A heartfelt thank you from Lilly, Isla and the SIT Club!


WEEK AT A GLANCE: January 4-8
Monday, January 4: Back to school
Monday, January 4: JS Pizza lunch @ 11:50-12:50 pm


NEED TO KNOW DATES
Wednesday, January 13: JS Grade Rep Meeting @ 8:30-9:30 am
Wednesday, January 20: HCPA Meeting @ 1:00-2:00 pm in Ellen Knox Library (US)
Thursday, January 21: Online re-enrolment begins at 12:00 pm
Thursday, January 21: Grade 5 Parent Meeting - Algonquin Park Overnight Excursion @ 6:30-7:15 pm
Tuesday, January 26: Grade 6 Parent Meeting - Transitioning to Upper School Information Evening @ 6:30-7:30 pm in the Legacy Theatre (US)
Wednesday, January 27: Grade 6 Lunch at the Upper School @ 11:50 am

Friday 11 December 2015

Message From the Head of Junior School: December 11, 2015

Dear Parents,

It's that time of the year! Yes, it's the 'official' start to the holiday season next week as we present our two annual Christmas concerts. To the parents of students in grades 1-6, I thank you for your patience as we try to accommodate the many requests we have received for additional tickets. All parents who have not collected their tickets have been contacted and we are in the process of analyzing final attendance figures. As you may know, we are strictly governed by the City of Toronto, Fire Marshall with respect to maximum attendance numbers as a precaution for fire safety which is why we work so diligently to ensure compliance. We hope to be able to contact you as soon as possible with news regarding your requests. Please make sure to read the need-to-know information below to help us make this evening a success. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Kate White at kwhite@havergal.on.ca

Warmly,
Leslie Anne


JS CHRISTMAS CONCERTS

Grades JK+SK - Monday, December 14 at 2:00 pm in the JS Gymnasium
Parents and guests, please join us in the JS gymnasium at 2:00 pm, there will be a small reception in the classrooms following the concert.


Grades 1-6 - Wednesday, December 16 at 6:30 pm in the Brenda Robson Hall (Upper School)
Help us to make this concert successful ... please read the following need-to-know instructions:


Attire: Girls must wear "Concert Attire", consisting of #1 dress uniform, with special attention to the following:
(1) All girls are to wear a long-sleeve white shirt,
(2) Grades 1-3 are to wear green tights, while Grades 4-6 should wear green kneesocks,
(3) Hair should be pinned back from the face using a plain hair accessory such as a small pin, or a headband without colour, sparkles or embellishments.

Arrival & Check In: Plan to arrive at the Upper School, front doors at 6:00 pm, you will be met by JS teachers in the rotunda who will escort your daughter to her appropriate waiting area while you secure a seat in the Brenda Robson Hall. Individual tickets have been issued for entry, please check in at the arrivals table.

Exiting the Auditorium: Please leave through the marked exits, specific instructions are outlined on the back page of the concert program.

Pick Up/Rendezvous: To avoid congestion at the conclusion of the concert, we ask that only one parent/adult collect students from the waiting areas indicated on the back page of the concert program.


ATHLETIC MESSAGE - From Annie Maki, JS Athletic Director
The December issue of Gator Zone is out. Read about our swim team, coaches, and our squad teams at the following link: https://www.havergal.on.ca/gator-zone-december-2015


LOST AND FOUND
Is your daughter missing a mitten, water bottle, lunch bag, shoe(s) or more? All lost and found items have been organized on tables outside the gym - please drop by to see if anything belongs to your family. All unclaimed items will be donated to our community partner New Circles prior to closing for Christmas break.


USING VERACROSS ON A MOBILE DEVICE (Parent Portal)
If you are having difficulties accessing the Parent Portal on your mobile device, our IT Department has put together some helpful tips for you. For your convenience they offer this direct link to access this information: https://portal.havergal.on.ca/com/


CO-CURRICULAR CLUBS:
Autumn Clubs are now all finished. Winter co-curricular clubs start the week of January 11, with the exception of ABT Ballet which starts on January 4. Verification slips with session dates were sent home with your daughter this week.


NEXT WEEK AT A GLANCE: December 14-17
Monday, December 14: Kindergarten Christmas Concert @ 2:00 pm (JS gym)(reception to follow)
Tuesday, December 15: Locker/Cubby/Desk Clean Out
Tuesday, December 15: Toasty Tuesday - Hot Chocolate served by Mrs. Dexter & Ms. White at short recess, yummy!
Wednesday, December 16: Grade 6 Lunch @ Upper School -  Hawkin's Dining Hall
Wednesday, December 16: Grades 1-6 Christmas Concert @ 6:30 pm (Brenda Robson Hall)
Thursday, December 17: JS Christmas Prayers @ 8:30 am (JS Gym)
Thursday, December 17: Whole School Red/Green Dress (casual dress/non-uniform)
Thursday, December 17: Christmas Prayers @ 8:30 am (JS Gym)
Thursday, December 17: Dismissal @ 3:30 pm, aftercare available until 6:00 pm


NEED TO KNOW DATES
Friday, December 18 to Friday, January 1: Christmas Break (no school)
Monday, January 4: Back to school!

Friday 4 December 2015

Message From the Head of Junior School: December 4, 2015

Dear Parents,

The safety of students, parents, faculty, and staff is of the utmost importance and we take parent concerns seriously. Earlier this week I received the following letter from Kevin Daley, father of Kaitlyn in 3Y and Kyra in SK. His message is so important that I believe everyone should read it:

Dear Leslie Anne,
I am writing today to express my concern over pedestrian safety given what I have witnessed over the past few weeks as the weather has been turning cooler and frequently wet. At peak periods, drop-off and pick--up, there is a tremendous amount of traffic at the Junior School. This appears to be not only parents dropping off students to the Junior School but also parents dropping off students who then transit to the Upper/Middle School. Despite the fact that a sidewalk exists along the roadway, many students, and parents with students, choose to walk or run through the parking lot and frequently pop out from behind parked vehicles. This is particularly concerning when it is raining as the girls are often rushing at a time when visibility is also reduced. Vehicles dropping off students for the Upper and Middle Schools frequently drive down the parking lot to drop off passengers near the Kindergarten only to compound the problem while trying to turn around. There appears to be a blatant disregard for common sense safety practices in the interest of personal convenience. It is not my pervue to mandate the task for the Havergal security staff, however it seems more likely that an accident could occur within the parking lot area than at the front door of the Junior School. If student safety is their mandate, I believe their objectives and routine at the peak times could be reconsidered to provide greater traffic and student pedestrian control.
Sincerely,
Kevin

Kevin's concerns are certainly valid and I shared this letter with our Chief of Security Rob Stepien who also voiced his worries about safety while at school. He oversees a uniformed security guard who is present daily, and is stationed at the clock tower (or thereabouts) to act as a visual deterrent; however, his/her most important duty is to detect and act upon any external security related threat to students, parents, faculty and staff. They are trusted to perform this duty above all else, and they position themselves in various locations with this in mind. As they cannot be in all places at all times, this is where we need your help and common sense.

I strongly urge everyone to keep the following in mind:
- Always drive cautiously keeping in mind that children can be unpredictable, and sometimes dart in between cars, and greenery.
- Keep control of your children, walk on the sidewalk, hold hands, and guide them safely to avoid traffic.

If we all work together, we can make Havergal a safer place.

Warmly,
Leslie Anne


JS CHRISTMAS CONCERTS - Pick up tickets now!
Grades JK+SK - Monday, December 14 at 2:00 pm in the JS Gymnasium
Grades 1-6 - Wednesday, December 16 at 6:30 pm in the Brenda Robson Hall (Upper School)
Tickets for the grades 1-6 concert are available in the JS Office. Each family of students in grades 1-6 will be provided with 2 tickets to this event. Tickets are to be collected from the JS Office and students will be permitted to collect them on their parent's behalf. If you will not be using one or both of your tickets, we ask that you advise the office as soon as possible so the seats can be reassigned to a family requesting additional tickets. If you would like to request additional tickets, please ask the office to be put on the waitlist. All efforts will be made to accommodate as many as possible. We thank you for your understanding.

FOREST OF READING SILVER BIRCH PROGRAM - Message from Ms. Rodd
Girls in grades 4, 5, and 6 are taking part in the Forest of Reading Silver Birch Program. This includes 10 middle-grade novels written by Canadian authors. The program ends with an event in May at Harbourfront Center called the Festival of Trees, where authors are available for book signings and there are many fun activities, performers and events. It is an exciting day! Any student in the junior grades who reads 5 of the 10 books by mid-April is able to vote for their favourite (winner revealed at the Festival of Trees) and attend the event. The book club meets once a month to take part in fun activities and discuss the books in the program with each other and the teacher book ambassadors. The books are available through the Learning Hub, but you may also borrow copies form the public library, or purchase your own personal copies. Here is a link that includes all the titles: https://www.accessola.org/web/OLAWEB/Forest_of_Reading/Awards_Nominees/Silver_Birch_Fiction_Nominees.aspx


USING VERACROSS ON A MOBILE DEVICE (Parent Portal)
If you are having difficulties accessing the Parent Portal on your mobile device, our IT Department has put together some helpful tips for you. For your convenience they offer this direct link to access this information: https://portal.havergal.on.ca/vcom/


CO-CURRICULAR CLUBS: Remaining Session Dates
Mondays:
ABT Ballet @ December 7 (session times advised by Ms. Wade)
Zodiactors @ December 7 performance @ 5:00 pm (Upper School)

Tuesdays:
Junior Choir & One Act Plays @ December 8

Wednesdays:
Primary Choir @ December 9

Thursdays: NO CLUBS

NEXT WEEK AT A GLANCE: December 7-11
Monday, December 7: Advent Prayers with the Reverend MacDonald
Monday, December 7: JS Pizza Lunch
Tuesday, December 8: HCPA Holiday Luncheon @ 12:00 pm (off-site)
Wednesday, December 9: Violin/Viola Christmas Recital @ 4:00 pm (Learning Hub)
Friday, December 11: JS Prayers - students of the One Act Plays Club will be performing their adapted version of the book: The Spirit of Christmas, by Nancy Tillman - parents are welcome!

NEED TO KNOW DATES
Monday, December 14: Kindergarten Christmas Concert @ 2:00 pm (JS gym)(reception to follow)
Tuesday, December 15: Locker/Cubby/Desk Clean Out
Tuesday, December 15: Toasty Tuesday - Hot Chocolate at short recess, yummy!
Wednesday, December 16: Grade 6 Lunch @ Upper School -  Hawkin's Dining Hall
Wednesday, December 16: Grades 1-6 Christmas Concert @ 6:30 pm (Brenda Robson Hall)
Thursday, December 17: JS Christmas Prayers @ 8:30 am (JS Gym)
Thursday, December 17: Whole School Red/Green Dress (casual dress/non-uniform)
Thursday, December 17: Christmas Prayers @ 8:30 am (JS Gym)
Thursday, December 17: Dismissal @ 3:30 pm, aftercare available until 6:00 pm
Friday, December 18 to Friday, January 1: Christmas Break (no school)
Monday, January 4: Back to school!

Friday 27 November 2015

Message From the Head of Junior School: November 27, 2015

Dear Parents,

The Student Institute Team (SIT) was officially added to our after-school club program list this year, as well as operating once a week in the morning. In SIT, girls learn that they don't have to wait, and they don't have to be older - they can step up to their place in the world now. They are encouraged to share their ideas, get help developing them, and build on the ideas of others as they answer the question, "What kind of world do I want?" Students met every week to develop inquiry skills, research and collaborate on a topic that held significance to them. The outstanding students of SIT exemplify how Havergal's values of Inquiry, Integrity, Compassion, and Courage are lived within the school community inside and outside the classroom. Some examples of the work being done in SIT this year include:

Primary SIT: A grade 1 student began with the guiding question, "How do endangered animals become endangered?" and completed a research inquiry into the plight of rhinoceroses. Focusing on unique qualities that make rhinos an important species in the African ecosystem as well as interesting concepts like the symbiotic relationship they have with some birds for cleaning, the student enthusiastically encouraged her fellow SIT members to ask questions about ethically sourcing materials and learning more about how to protect endangered rhino species.

Junior SIT: Two Grade 5 students have teamed up to learn more about the role of vaccinations in healthy communities. The two have researched the efficacy of different vaccination schemes and have contrasted the successful eradication of smallpox with the ongoing work being done by health professionals on malaria and dengue fever. Learning the difference between viral and bacterial infections and how healthcare responses differ to each, they are eager to learn more and share their findings with the Havergal Community. Currently, the team is preparing to interview an employee of UNICEF with the hopes of having it published in both Junior and Senior School newspapers.

There are dozens more ideas being explored during SIT this year and teachers, staff and parents are all invited to share in the learning. Wednesday morning sessions will continue until the holiday break for interested students from 7:45-8:30 am in the Learning Hub. We're looking forward to resuming the afternoon club SIT times in the new year!

Warmly,
Leslie Anne


ESL PARENT COFFEE MORNING - CALLING ALL PARENTS (Grades JK-6)!  
In an effort to assist our Junior School families, for whom English is a second language, with a better understanding of what goes in inside our ivy-covered walls, we invite you to join us for a coffee morning in the Learning Hub on Thursday, December 3 from 10:00-11:30 am. We will begin the event with some words of welcome from our Principal, Mrs. Helen-Kay Davy, followed by a brief presentation from senior faculty and staff including:
- Leslie Anne Dexter, Head of Junior School
- Seonaid Davis, Director of Curriculum and Faculty Development
- Heather Johnstone, Head of Guidance
- Louise Yearwood, Executive Director of Advancement and Community Relations
Parents are welcome and encouraged to attend. We will have translators for all those who have RSVP'd with a language request. Please direct questions to Sara Ly at sly@havergal.on.ca or call 416.483.3843 extension 6915.


BUILDING STUDENT SOCIAL LITERACY AND INTRA & INTER-PERSONAL CAPACITIES
As many of you know, Kate Sharpe is no stranger to the halls of Havergal College. Kate is a teacher, and has completed her training as a certified coach. She is a well respected member of our community and is an HC Old Girl. We are excited to continue our work building resiliency and capacity in all students. Over the last three years, Kate has worked with our students, parents, faculty and staff. This year, we continue to build on this vital and important learning. She has already worked with the Grade 3's this term, and in the winter will work with students in Grades 4, 5, and 6. Kate addressed the parents at the HCPA luncheon last Friday, and it is our hope that she will again be able to work with our parents this year.

JS CHRISTMAS CONCERTS
Grades JK+SK - Monday, December 14 at 2:00 pm in the JS Gymnasium
Grades 1-6 - Wednesday, December 16 at 6:30 pm in the Brenda Robson Hall (Upper School)
Tickets for the grades 1-6 concert are available in the JS Office. Each family of students in grades 1-6 will be provided with 2 tickets to this event. Tickets are to be collected from the JS Office and students will be permitted to collect them on their parent's behalf. If you will not be using one or both of your tickets, we ask that you advise the office as soon as possible so the seats can be reassigned to a family requesting additional tickets. If you would like to request additional tickets, please ask the office to be put on the waitlist. All efforts will be made to accommodate as many as possible. We thank you for your understanding.

SIT - THANK YOU JUNIOR SCHOOL - FROM NEW CIRCLES
We received the following message from our friends at New Circles to share with you::

"Dear Havergal Families, we just picked up the donations that the Junior School had collected today. Wow! What a generous clothing drive! Thank you so much to the staff, student body and parents for supporting this initiative. Winter is a very busy time at New Circles - we serve a high volume of people living on a low income, the majority of whom are newcomers and refugees. We are often short on clothing for children - especially winter gear. We are so grateful to have such a wonderful and generous supporter in Havergal College. These donations will go a long way in helping us serve the community!
Sincerely,

Nita Saini
New Circles - Manager, Volunteer Programs

With this said, if you have any items left to donate, the bins will remain outside the Learning Hub until Monday. To learn more about this valued community partner, please visit their website: http://newcircles.ca/


CO-CURRICULAR CLUBS: Remaining Session Dates
Mondays:
ABT Ballet @ November 30, December 7 (session times advised by Ms. Wade)
Chess Lunch Club & Basketball Clinic @  November 30
Zodiactors @ November 30, with a performance on December 7

Tuesdays:
Junior Choir @ December 1
One Act Plays @ December 1, 8

Wednesdays:
Primary Choir @ December 2

Thursdays:
Fashion Design, Junior Journalists, Science & Video Games Design Clubs @ December 3

NEXT WEEK AT A GLANCE: November 30-December 4
Monday, November 30: Advent Prayers with Mrs. Helen-Kay Davy @ 8:30 am (JS Gym)
Wednesday, December 2: JS Grade Rep Meeting @ 8:30 am (JS Learning Hub)
Thursday, December 3: ESL Parent Coffee Morning @ 10:00-11:30 am (JS Learning Hub)

NEED TO KNOW DATES
Monday, December 14: Kindergarten Christmas Concert @ 2:00 pm (JS gym)(reception to follow)
Tuesday, December 15: Locker/Cubby/Desk Clean Out
Wednesday, December 16: Grades 1-6 Christmas Concert @ 6:30 pm (Brenda Robson Hall)
Thursday, December 17: Whole School Red/Green Dress (casual dress/non-uniform)
Thursday, December 17: Christmas Prayers @ 8:30 am (JS Gym)
Thursday, December 17: Dismissal @ 3:30 pm, aftercare available until 6:00 pm
Friday, December 18 to Friday, January 1: Christmas Break (no school)
Monday, January 4: Back to school!

Friday 20 November 2015

Message From the Head of Junior School: November 20, 2015

Dear Parents,

As report cards are coming out on Thursday, November 26, I would like to take this opportunity to explain the four levels of achievement that we use in the Junior School. Student work is assigned a mark based on the degree to which it meets the assignment and classwork expectations.

To determine a report card grade, teachers look at all the individual marks on assignments and classwork to determine the consistent pattern that is demonstrated on the entire body of work, with special emphasis on more recent work. Most generally the grade on the report card will be a Level 1 to Level 4.

Levels 1-4
 - Students who have work at level 1 are finding grade level expectations a challenge. They require significant support by the teacher in order to demonstrate their understanding and that understanding is at a basic level.
- Students who have work at level 2 are meeting grade level expectations. They require frequent support by the teacher in order to demonstrate their understanding.
- Students who have work at level 3 are meeting grade level expectations to a degree that we would expect for most of our students. They consistently can demonstrate their understanding at a competent level.
- Students who have work at level 4 are meeting grade level expectations independently and consistently without teacher support. Their understanding is well developed, deep, accurate and thorough. This means they have the ability to use their knowledge, skills and understandings flexibly and on their own.
- The code R is used to describe student work that is not yet meeting grade level expectations.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Warmly,
Leslie Anne



CO-CURRICULAR SIGN UP FORM - WINTER SESSION
Co-curricular sign up forms for activities in the winter session have been distributed in hard copy to your daughter today. Please return the completed form to the JS office before Friday, December 4.


SIT - NEW CIRCLES NEEDS OUR HELP!
Our friends at New Circles have reached out to us for our support. Since moving to a larger space last year, they have been able to accommodate even more families. More clients means more demand, and New Circles is experiencing an unusual shortage of girls' clothing, winter coats and boots of all sizes. With winter fast approaching, the HC community will be collecting gently used items throughout the month of November. Collection boxes will be set up outside the Learning Hub. Coats, snow-pants, boots, hats, mittens, clothing and (new) socks and underwear of all sizes are all greatly appreciated. To learn more about this valued Community Partner, please visit their website: http://newcircles.ca/


CALLING ALL PARENTS (Grades JK-6) FOR WHOM ENGLISH IS NOT YOUR FIRST LANGUAGE
In an effort to assist our Junior School families, for whom English is a second language, with a better understanding of what goes in inside our ivy-covered walls, we invite you to join us for a coffee morning in the Learning Hub on Thursday, December 3 from 10:00-11:30 am. We will begin the event with some words of welcome from our Principal, Mrs. Helen-Kay Davy, followed by a brief presentation from senior faculty and staff including:
- Leslie Anne Dexter, Head of Junior School
- Seonaid Davis, Director of Curriculum and Faculty Development
- Heather Johnstone, Head of Guidance
- Louise Yearwood, Executive Director of Advancement and Community Relations
Parents are welcome and encouraged to ask questions. We are pleased to offer translators at this session for all those who RSVP with a language request. Please RSVP by November 27 to Sara Ly at sly@havergal.on.ca or call 416.483.3843 extension 6915.


CO-CURRICULAR CLUBS: Remaining Session Dates
Mondays:
ABT Ballet @ November 30, December 7 (session times advised by Ms. Wade)
Chess Lunch Club & Basketball Clinic @  November 30
Zodiactors @ November 30, with a performance on December 7

Tuesdays: Autumn clubs finished

Wednesdays: Autumn clubs finished

Thursdays:
Fashion Design, Junior Journalists, Science & Video Games Design Clubs @ November 26, December 3

NEXT WEEK AT A GLANCE: November 23-27
Monday, November 23: Grade 6 parents tour Upper School
Wednesday, November 25: JS Head For A Day - Avery Southam!
Thursday, November 26: Grade 6 parents tour Upper School
Thursday, November 26: JS Report cards available

Thursday 12 November 2015

Thursday Message From the Head of Junior School: November 12, 2015

ATHLETICS MESSAGE FROM DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS - ANNIE MAKI
To our grade 5 + 6 parents: Online registration for the upcoming winter season (competitive teams) has already started. Online registration remains open until Tuesday, November 17 at 12:00 pm. Interested girls will have the opportunity to try out for the volleyball and swim teams from Monday, November 24 - Friday, December 4. Detailed instructions are in the Friday Message dated October 30, 2015. If you have any question with registration, please contact Ms. Maki at amaki@havergal.on.ca or at 416.483.3843 extension 6606.


SIT - NEW CIRCLES NEEDS OUR HELP!
Our friends at New Circles have reached out to us for our support. Since moving to a larger space last year, they have been able to accommodate even more families. More clients means more demand, and New Circles is experiencing an unusual shortage of girls' clothing, winter coats and boots of all sizes. With winter fast approaching, the HC community will be collecting gently used items throughout the month of November. Collection boxes will be set up outside the Learning Hub. Coats, snow-pants, boots, hats, mittens, clothing and (new) socks and underwear of all sizes are all greatly appreciated. To learn more about this valued Community Partner, please visit their website: http://newcircles.ca/

COFFEE MORNING - IF ENGLISH IS NOT YOUR FIRST LANGUAGE
In an effort to assist our Junior School families, for whom English is not your first language, with a better understanding of what goes in inside our ivy-covered walls, we invite you to join us for a coffee morning in the Learning Hub on Thursday, December 3 from 10:00-11:30 am. Come learn more about the Havergal academic curriculum and other school news. We are pleased to offer translators at this session for all those who RSVP with a language request. Please contact Sara Ly at sly@havergal.on.ca or call 416.483.3843 extension 6915 before November 27.

CO-CURRICULAR CLUBS: Remaining Session Dates
Mondays:
ABT Ballet @ November 23, 30, December 7 (session times advised by Ms. Wade)
Chess Lunch Club & Basketball Clinic @  November 23, 30
Zodiactors @ November 23, 30, with a performance on December 7

Tuesdays:
Corking Club, Junior Choir, Multi-Sports, One Act Play, SIT/Primary @  November 17

Wednesdays:
SIT/AM (Grades 1-6) at 7:45-8:30 am @ November 18, 25
Junior Tennis Club @ CLUB FINISHED
Primary Choir & SIT/Junior @ November 18, 25

Thursdays:
Fashion Design, Junior Journalists, Science & Video Games Design Clubs @ November 19, 26, December 3

NEXT WEEK AT A GLANCE: November 16-20
Monday, November 16: Mid-term break NO SCHOOL
Tuesday, November 17: School resumes

  
PARENT PORTAL REMINDER:
For detailed information about your family's household calendar, I encourage you to log onto Veracross through the Parent Portal (http://www.comunity.havergal.on.ca). For the latest school news, visit http://www.havergal.on.ca/news

Friday 6 November 2015

Friday Message From the Head of Junior School: November 6, 2015

Dear JS Parents,

It seems as though we just returned from summer holidays and next week we go into mid-term break starting on Wednesday. Many of you have exciting plans for this extra long weekend travelling to places far away, and others are staying in the city appreciating all that Toronto has to offer. Whatever your plans are, I hope that your family enjoys special time together.

Warmly,
Leslie Anne



ATHLETICS MESSAGE FROM DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS - ANNIE MAKI
To our grade 5 + 6 parents: Online registration for the upcoming winter season (competitive teams) has already started. Online registration remains open until Tuesday, November 17 at 12:00 pm. Interested girls will have the opportunity to try out for the volleyball and swim teams from Monday, November 24 - Friday, December 4. Detailed instructions are in the Friday Message dated October 30, 2015. If you have any question with registration, please contact Ms. Maki at amaki@havergal.on.ca or at 416.483.3843 extension 6606.


REMEMBRANCE DAY - Monday, November 9
The Junior School will be honouring Remembrance Day on Monday, November 9 at 11:00 am. As always, we encourage all family members to join us at this special service. Please note, that Junior School Grandpals' Day will take place on Wednesday, May 25 this year, rather than following the Remembrance Day Service.

We ask that your daughter come to school in her #1 uniform. The Royal Canadian Legion, Fairbank Branch #75 has provided us with a poppy sticker for every girl in the Junior School to wear at the Service. Please help us to help them by sending in a donation of a loonie or toonie for this poppy sticker. The Poppy Campaign is one of the Legion's most important programs. The money raised from donations provides direct assistance for Veterans in financial distress, as well as funding for medical appliances and research, home services, care facilities and numerous other valuable services.

JS PORTRAITS REMINDER
Just a quick reminder that your daughter's school portrait is online and available for purchase at www.perfect-portraits.com/. The password to enter the secure site for HC is: JR2015. The viewing and ordering is time sensitive as an upload fee of $20 will be applied to all orders after Saturday, November 7, 2015.

SIT - NEW CIRCLES NEEDS OUR HELP!
Our friends at New Circles have reached out to us for our support. Since moving to a larger space last year, they have been able to accommodate even more families. More clients means more demand, and New Circles is experiencing an unusual shortage of girls' clothing, winter coats and boots of all sizes. With winter fast approaching, the HC community will be collecting gently used items throughout the month of November. Collection boxes will be set up outside the Learning Hub. Coats, snow-pants, boots, hats, mittens, clothing and (new) socks and underwear of all sizes are all greatly appreciated. To learn more about this valued Community Partner, please visit their website: http://newcircles.ca/

COFFEE MORNING - IF ENGLISH IS NOT YOUR FIRST LANGUAGE
In an effort to assist our Junior School families, for whom English is not your first language, with a better understanding of what goes in inside our ivy-covered walls, we invite you to join us for a coffee morning in the Learning Hub on Monday, December 3 from 10:00-11:30 am. Come learn more about the Havergal academic curriculum and other school news. We are pleased to offer translators at this session for all those who RSVP with a language request. Please contact Sara Ly at sly@havergal.on.ca or call 416.483.3843 extension 6915 before November 27.

CO-CURRICULAR CLUBS: Remaining Session Dates
Mondays:
ABT Ballet @ November 9, 23, 30, December 7 (session times advised by Ms. Wade)
Chess Lunch Club & Basketball Clinic @  November 9, 23, 30
Zodiactors @ November 9, 23, 30, with a performance on December 7

Tuesdays:
Corking Club, Junior Choir, Multi-Sports, One Act Play, SIT/Primary @  November 10, 17

Wednesdays:
SIT/AM (Grades 1-6) at 7:45-8:30 am @ November 18, 25
Junior Tennis Club @ CLUB FINISHED
Primary Choir & SIT/Junior @ November 18, 25

Thursdays:
Fashion Design, Junior Journalists, Science & Video Games Design Clubs @ November 19, 26, December 3

NEXT WEEK AT A GLANCE: November 9-13
Monday, November 9: JS Remembrance Day Service @ 11:00 am in the JS gymnasium
Wednesday, November 11: Mid-term break NO SCHOOL
Thursday, November 12: Mid-term break NO SCHOOL
Friday, November 13: Mid-term break NO SCHOOL
Monday, November 16: Mid-term break NO SCHOOL
Tuesday, November 17: School resumes

  
PARENT PORTAL REMINDER:
For detailed information about your family's household calendar, I encourage you to log onto Veracross through the Parent Portal (http://www.comunity.havergal.on.ca). For the latest school news, visit http://www.havergal.on.ca/news

Friday 30 October 2015

Friday Message From the Head of Junior School: October 30, 2015

Dear JS Parents,

It's Halloween! As a young child this was one of my absolute favorite days of the year. I was positively bursting with excitement as I planned my costume, whether it was a princess, witch, clown or cowgirl and today I am a gourmet chef! The Junior School is full of some of the most creative, cute and even scary costumes you could possibly imagine. I hope that you were able to join us for our annual assembly led by the Upper School prefects and shared in some of this 'spirited' fun.

Stay safe and best wishes for a Happy Halloween!

Warmly,
Leslie Anne



ATHLETICS MESSAGE FROM DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS - ANNIE MAKI
To our grade 5+6 parents: The plans for the upcoming winter athletic season are already in motion. The girls will have the opportunity to try out for the volleyball and swim teams. The tryout period is from Monday, November 24 - Friday, December 4.

Online registration - we are pleased to announce that the Junior School is moving to online registration for the winter season. The online sign up is for our competitive teams only. The winter athletic volleyball training squad and primary athletic club will be part of the co-curricular clubs registration which will happen in the next few weeks. This club sign up will also include the JS hockey club. There is no online registration for the hockey club. Interested girls will be invited to sign up with the coaches soon.

Online registration is open from Monday, November 2 at 8:00 am, until Tuesday, November 17 at 12:00 pm. Please log into the Parent Portal for access to the Winter Athletics sign up link. Here, you will find the welcome  message and be directed to the Launch registration link at the bottom of the page and be prompted to move through the registration. The teams that are visible are the only teams that your daughter is eligible to sign up for (ie: a grade 5 student will not be able to register for the grade 6 volleyball team). The Winter Athletics sign up link is both in your parent portal and your daughter's Veracross home page. It does not matter if you use your or your daughter's account to sign up. The system will not allow your daughter to sign up twice for the same team and you will be able to see if your daughter has already signed up. A confirmation email will be sent to the account that is used to register. Once registered and during the tryout period students will be listed on the team in Veracross so that they can see tryout times. Once the team has been selected only the students that have made the team will remain on the team list. Your daughter received an introduction to the online sign up process this week. We encourage you to go through the registration process together. The seasons schedule will be distributed to students at the first try out. It is an expectation that each team member attend every practice and league game. It is mandatory that all team members attend the final championship. If you have any question with registration, please contact Ms. Maki at amaki@havergal.on.ca or at 416.483.3843 extension 6606.

STARBOOKS - Tuesday, November 3
Our parent workshop on Independent Reading and how it is one of the most important factors in your daughter's reading development is being offered again on Tuesday, November 3 from 8:30-9:15 am in the JS Learning Hub. I encourage parents of students in Grades JK-6 to come and learn Havergal's philosophy and how you can support your daughter in her development of this crucial academic and life skill. I hope to see you there!

JS GRADE REP MEETING - Wednesday, November 4
Co-convenors Andrea Cohen and Dana Rippon would like to invite all parents to attend the upcoming Grade Rep meeting on Wednesday, November 4 at 8:30-9:430 am in the JS Learning Hub.

REMEMBRANCE DAY - Monday, November 9
The Junior School will be honouring Remembrance Day on Monday, November 9 at 11:00 am. As this is a formal occasion, we ask that your daughter come to school in her #1 uniform. We encourage family members to join us at this special service. Please note, that Junior School Grandpals' Day will take place on Wednesday, May 25 this year, rather than following the Remembrance Day Service.

JS PORTRAITS REMINDER
Just a quick reminder that your daughter's school portrait is online and available for purchase at www.perfect-portraits.com/. The password to enter the secure site for HC is: JR2015. The viewing and ordering is time sensitive as an upload fee of $20 will be applied to all orders after Saturday, November 7, 2015.

SIT - NEW CIRCLES NEEDS OUR HELP!
Our friends at New Circles have reached out to us for our support. Since moving to a larger space last year, they have been able to accommodate even more families. More clients means more demand, and New Circles is experiencing an unusual shortage of girls' clothing, winter coats and boots of all sizes. With winter fast approaching, the HC community will be collecting gently used items throughout the month of November. Collection boxes will be set up outside the Learning Hub. Coats, snow-pants, boots, hats, mittens, clothing and (new) socks and underwear of all sizes are all greatly appreciated. To learn more about this valued Community Partner, please visit their website: http://newcircles.ca/

CO-CURRICULAR CLUBS: Remaining Session Dates
Mondays:
ABT Ballet @ November 2, 9, 23, 30, December 7 (session times advised by Ms. Wade)
Chess Lunch Club & Basketball Clinic @  November 2, 9, 23, 30
Zodiactors @ November 2, 9, 23, 30, with a performance on December 7

Tuesdays:
Corking Club, Junior Choir, Multi-Sports, One Act Play, SIT/Primary @  November 3, 10, 17

Wednesdays:
SIT/AM (Grades 1-6) at 7:45-8:30 am @ November 4, 18, 25
Junior Tennis Club @ November 4
Primary Choir & SIT/Junior @ November 4, 18, 25

Thursdays:
Fashion Design, Junior Journalists, Science & Video Games Design Clubs @ November 5, 19, 26, December 3

NEXT WEEK AT A GLANCE: November 2-6
Monday, November 2: Pizza Lunch (Rose Reisman Catering not available)
Tuesday, November 3: Starbooks @ 8:30 am in the JS Learning Hub
Wednesday, November 4: JS Grade Rep Meeting @ 8:30 am in the JS Learning Hub
  
PARENT PORTAL REMINDER:
For detailed information about your family's household calendar, I encourage you to log onto Veracross through the Parent Portal (http://www.comunity.havergal.on.ca). For the latest school news, visit http://www.havergal.on.ca/news

Friday 23 October 2015

Friday Message From the Head of Junior School: October 23, 2015

Dear JS Parents,

There is much for you to read in this message. As always, I am available to you should you have any questions or concerns.

Enjoy your weekend!

Leslie Anne Dexter
Head of Junior School



ATHLETIC PHILOSOPHY
Every student, from our Junior School to Senior School, has the capability to engage in Havergal's athletics program.

Havergal's athletics program has the breadth to meet the needs of a diverse group of students, and the depth to challenge students at all stages of development. It also develops in all students: self-confidence, sportsmanship, commitment, perseverance, co-operation, responsibility, resilience, self-efficacy, and pride in representing the school.

The Junior School Athletic Program has three components to develop our athletes:

Squad Teams & Clubs
  • New in PRIMARY grades! Each term as a part of the after-school Clubs' Program, students in Grades 1-3 can now sign up to participate in a non-competitive athletic program, (e.g., Multi-Sport Club). The goal is to allow our youngest students to participate in a variety of non-competitive athletic activities so that they can stay active and develop a lifelong commitment to healthy, active living while having fun.
  • New in JUNIOR grades! Each term, as part of the after-school Clubs' Program, students in Grades 4-6 are invited to join a sport specific Squad Team. A different sport is offered each term, (Fall - Basketball; Winter - Volleyball; Spring - Softball). The goal is to allow students to explore an interest in a specific sport in a non-competitive environment, to develop individual skills and to experience being part of a team.
Intramurals
  • Students in Grades 1-6 are invited to participate in Intramurals on Wednesdays from 8:30-9:00 am. The Intramural program is designed to involve all students.
  • Intramurals offer a mix of co-operative and competitive games. Students play in House Teams, and this creates an environment for fun and for building community.
Competitive Teams
  • The competitive athletic program provides the opportunity for students to participate on teams representing Havergal College. Our teams compete in the Conference of Independent Schools Athletic Association of Girls (CISAA-G).
  • In the Junior School, the following is in place to ensure that we have a blend of maximum participation with competitive excellence. Every team member is awarded the opportunity to contribute to achieving these goals while having fun playing the game.
  • Teams offered in the Junior School are:
  • Cross-Country (Grades 1-6)
  • Swim (Grades 5-6)
  • Basketball (Grades 5-6)
  • Soccer (Grades 4-6)
  • Volleyball (Grades 5-6)
  • Softball (Grades 5-6)
  • Track & Field (Grades 4-6)

OPEN HOUSE - Wednesday, October 28
On October 28, we invite prospective families to come to our Open House between 8:30-11:00 am. It is a special opportunity for families to visit our campus and see our school in action. As we want to look our best, please send your daughter to school in her #1 uniform. Student Ambassadors in Grade 6 will act as tour guides and represent us. If you have any questions concerning the admissions process, please do not hesitate to contact Hilary Adamson at hadamson@havergal.on.ca/.

HALLOWEEN IN THE JUNIOR SCHOOL - Friday, October 30
JS students will celebrate Halloween on Friday, October 30. We invite students to come to school in grub (non-uniform) clothing during the day, and change into costumes after lunch. Upper School students will join us for a fun assembly in the afternoon, and Grade Reps will provide a healthy treat in the classroom to follow. Please do not send in additional treats or sweets.

STARBOOKS - Tuesday, November 3
Our parent workshop on Independent Reading and how it is one of the most important factors in your daughter's reading development is being offered again on Tuesday, November 3 from 8:30-9:15 am in the JS Learning Hub. I encourage parents of students in Grades JK-6 to come and learn Havergal's philosophy and how you can support your daughter in her development of this crucial academic and life skill. I hope to see you there!

JS PORTRAITS REMINDER
Just a quick reminder that your daughter's school portrait is online and available for purchase at www.perfect-portraits.com/. The password to enter the secure site for HC is: JR2015. The viewing and ordering is time sensitive as an upload fee of $20 will be applied to all orders after Saturday, November 7, 2015.

GRADE 4/5/6 LOCKER HELP NEEDED
Students take great pride in their lockers. Please assist us in helping them to manage and organize these space independently by not going into their locker. We appreciate your support in this.

CO-CURRICULAR CLUBS: Remaining Session Dates
Mondays:
ABT Ballet @ October 26, November 2, 9, 23, 30, December 7 (session times advised by Ms. Wade)
Chess Lunch Club & Basketball Clinic @ October 26, November 2, 9, 23, 30
Zodiactors @ October 26, November 2, 9, 23, 30, with a performance on December 7

Tuesdays:
Corking Club, Junior Choir, Multi-Sports, One Act Play, SIT/Primary @ October 27, November 3, 10, 17

Wednesdays:
SIT/AM (Grades 1-6) at 7:45-8:30 am @ October 28, November 4, 18, 25
Junior Tennis Club @ October 28, November 4
Primary Choir & SIT/Junior @ October 28, November 4, 18, 25

Thursdays:
Fashion Design, Junior Journalists, Science & Video Games Design Clubs @ October 29, November 5, 19, 26, December 3

NEXT WEEK AT A GLANCE: October 26-30
Monday, October 26: JS Evacuation Drill @ 8:40 am
Tuesday, October 27: Grade 1 Parent Coffee Morning @ 8:30 am in the JS Learning Hub
Wednesday, October 28: Open House @ 8:30-11:00 am, students in #1 dress
Friday, October 30: Grub dress (non-uniform), change into costume in the afternoon, assembly @ 2:30 pm

 
PARENT PORTAL REMINDER:
For detailed information about your family's household calendar, I encourage you to log onto Veracross through the Parent Portal (http://www.comunity.havergal.on.ca). For the latest school news, visit http://www.havergal.on.ca/news

Friday 16 October 2015

Friday Message From the Head of Junior School: October 16, 2015

Dear JS Parents,

Last Wednesday, a group of parents and teachers came together during our first Starbooks of the year to consider Independent Reading and its crucial role in developing our students into life long readers. They explored the importance of reading quantity, book selection, parental involvement, and shared strategies to support our girls. Homework, reluctant readers, the prevalence of fairy books, and competition with screens and busy lives were also discussed. Parents asked thoughtful questions and shared valuable anecdotes that enriched the conversation. As we know that proficient reading is one of the biggest factors in academic success, I am pleased that we are able to offer such an important forum to our parent community.

We received feedback that some parents were unable to attend this session, and may be wondering about the following questions:

- How can I support my daughter's reading development?
- Why is the majority of my daughter's homework independent reading?
- What are 'just-right books', and which ones are right for my daughter?
- What is Havergal's philosophy on independent reading?

If you would be interested in attending a repeat session of Starbooks on Independent Reading, please email Nancy Tulli, our Literacy Coordinator at ntulli@havergal.on.ca. Also, I encourage you to talk to your daughter's teacher during upcoming conference about any questions you may have.

Leslie Anne Dexter
Head of Junior School


HC/BSS FUN RUN - Grades 1-3
Our Cross Country Fun Run returns next week on Tuesday, October 20. Primary students and teachers from BSS will join us for an afternoon of fun, running and friendship. We will run the Terry Fox loop around the school and enjoy activities together on the lower pitch. The Fun Run begins at 1:40 pm, and will finish by regular dismissal time. Your daughter can wear her HC athletic clothing all day. Please ensure that she comes to school in PE uniform and brings warm clothing to put on for the afternoon's outside activities. She can wear track pants over her PE shorts to keep warm. We are looking forward to a fabulous, and hopefully sunny afternoon!

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES - October 22 & 23
October conference time to meet with your daughter's teachers is scheduled for Thursday, October 22 between 4:00-8:00 pm, and Friday, October 23 between 8:00 am - 3:00 pm. The scheduling site, Pick A Time closes at 12:00 pm on Wednesday, October 21. Please note that there is no school or child care available on Friday, October 23. Gator care is available on October 22 until 6:00 pm only, I encourage you to register a spot for your daughter now.

USBORNE BOOKS
Usborne Books will be running a book fair during Parent/Teacher Conferences. Usborne offers a variety of attractive books for all ages, from board books to great fiction and non-fiction for older readers. The fair will take place outside of the Learning Hub during the evening of October 22, and all day October 23. Be sure to stop by!

JS PRAYERS
The Anglican Diocese of Toronto has hired local filmmaker Nicholas Bradford-Ewart to create a video to illustrate the ordinary and extraordinary moments of Chaplains working with students. The project will be a 2-3 minute collage, made up of short moments in which Chaplains interact with students. The final video will be shown at the Toronto Synod (bi-annual general meeting) and online at the Dioceses' YouTube page. The video will have a similar feel and tone to University of Toronto's video, as you can see here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zP7qF0xZpuU
On Monday, October 19, Nicholas will film at the Junior School. There will be shots set up outside of Prayers, and students in those scenarios will be approached by the Reverend Canon Susan Bell or the Reverend Andrew MacDonald for permission, otherwise student faces will be blurred. This project is a city-wide initiative and many other schools will also participate.

OPEN HOUSE - Wednesday, October 28
On October 28, we invite prospective families to come to our Open House between 8:30-11:00 am. It is a special opportunity for families to visit our campus and see our school in action. As we want to look our best, please send your daughter to school in her #1 uniform. Student Ambassadors in Grade 6 will act as tour guides and represent us. If you have any questions concerning the admissions process, please do not hesitate to contact Hilary Adamson at hadamson@havergal.on.ca/.

HALLOWEEN IN THE JUNIOR SCHOOL - Friday, October 30
JS students will celebrate Halloween on Friday, October 30. We invite students to come to school in grub (non-uniform) clothing during the day, and change into costumes after lunch. Upper School students will join us for a fun assembly in the afternoon, and Grade Reps will provide a healthy treat in the classroom to follow. Please do not send in additional treats or sweets.

JS PORTRAITS
Just a quick reminder that your daughter's school portrait is online and available for purchase at www.perfect-portraits.com/. The password to enter the secure site for HC is: JR2015. The viewing and ordering is time sensitive as an upload fee of $20 will be applied to all orders after Saturday, November 7, 2015.

CO-CURRICULAR CLUBS: Remaining Session Dates
Mondays:
ABT Ballet @ October 19, 26, November 2, 9, 23, 30, December 7 (session times advised by Ms. Wade)
Chess Lunch Club & Basketball Clinic @ October 19, 26, November 2, 9, 23, 30
Zodiactors @ October 19, 26, November 2, 9, 23, 30, with a performance on December 7
Tuesdays:
Corking Club, Junior Choir, Multi-Sports, One Act Play, SIT/Primary @ October 20, 27, November 3, 10, 17
Wednesdays:
SIT/AM (Grades 1-6) at 7:45-8:30 am @ October 21, 28, November 4, 18, 25
Junior Tennis Club @ October 21, 28, November 4
Primary Choir & SIT/Junior @ October 21, 28, November 4, 18, 25
Thursdays:
Fashion Design, Junior Journalists, Science & Video Games Design Clubs @ October 29, November 5, 19, 26, December 3

 
PARENT PORTAL REMINDER:
For detailed information about your family's household calendar, I encourage you to log onto Veracross through the Parent Portal (http://www.comunity.havergal.on.ca). For the latest school news, visit http://www.havergal.on.ca/news

Friday 9 October 2015

Friday Message From the Head of Junior School


Dear Parents,
 
“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow.”
 
I open this message with the above quote from Melody Beattie as I reflect on the Thanksgiving holiday and our beautiful JS Harvest Festival Service we had this morning. I am grateful for many things, chief among them the relationships and friendships I have with your daughters and you. I want to thank you for your generous donations of food, which have already made their way to the North York Harvest Food Bank, whose mission is to provide dignified food assistance and support to community members in northern Toronto. I’m delighted to announce that your gifts weighed in at  1,140 pounds! This will go a long way in helping others to have a food on their tables this holiday.
 
Warmly,
Leslie Anne Dexter

 
CELEBRATION SATURDAY 
Thank you to all for your generous contributions to and participation at Celebration Saturday. Although the weather was a brisk and chilly, everyone had a wonderful time enjoying the many activities while supporting our school partnerships. Look for photos on the HC website.

STARBOOKS
Are you wondering about…
·             How can I support my daughter’s reading development?
·             Why is the majority of my daughter’s homework independent reading?
·             What are “just-right” books and which ones are right for my daughter?
·             What is Havergal’s philosophy on independent reading?

If these questions speak to you, then you may be interested in attending our first Starbooks of the year. Grade 1, 4 and 5 Teachers, Librarian, and Literacy Coordinator will be discussing Independent Reading – why it is important to your daughter’s development and the role you can play in supporting her. Join us in the Learning Hub from 8:30 – 9:15 am on Wednesday, October 14, 2015.
 
QSP MAGAZINE DRIVE
Support our Community Partnerships with our magazine drive. Please consider ordering your magazine subscriptions through Havergal’s magazine drive and your contributions will help support our community partnerships. By participating in this initiative, you will receive great magazines at reduced prices so you can save up to 91% off what you would pay at the newsstand. A single magazine can cost as little as $1 per issue. To place an order or purchase a gift, visit www.QSP.ca and enter either the Junior School or Upper School group numbers:
- Junior School: 3736733
- Upper School: 3736758
Orders are due by Thursday, October 15
 
CO-CURRICULAR CLUBS: Remaining Session Dates
Mondays:
ABT Ballet @ October 19, 26, November 2, 9, 23, 30, December 7 (session times advised by Ms. Wade)

Chess Lunch Club & Basketball Clinic @ September 28, October 5, 19, 26, November 2, 9, 23, 30
Zodiactors @ October 19, 26, November 2, 9, 23, 30, with a performance on December 7

 
Tuesdays:
Corking Club, Junior Choir, Multi-Sports, One Act Plays, SIT/Primary @ October 13, 20, 27, November 3, 10, 17

 
Wednesdays:
SIT/AM (Grades 1-6) at 7:45-8:30 am @ October 14, 21, 28, November 4, 18, 25
Junior Tennis Club @ October 14, 21, 28, November 4

Primary Choir & SIT/Junior @ October 14, 21, 28, November 4, 18, 25
 
Thursdays:
Fashion Design, Junior Journalists, Science & Video Games Design Clubs @ October 15, 29, November 5, 19, 26, December 3
 
PARENT PORTAL REMINDER: For detailed information about your family’s household calendar, I encourage you to log onto Veracross through the Parent Portal (http://www.community.havergal.on.ca). For the latest school news, visit http://www.havergal.on.ca/news


Friday 18 September 2015

Grade 6s Return from Beausoleil Island


Dear Parents,

As I write this, our Grade 6 leaders are on a bus returning from their overnight trip on Beausoleil Island. All reports back from the accompanying teachers are that they had a wonderful and enriching experience, all the while strengthening their bonds with one another, and building trust and communication. Thank you to Kate White, Jesse Grosman, Andy Lucacescu, Rosa Mastri and Patrizia Rizzo for making this excursion such a success.

Celebration Saturday
Come one, come all on Saturday, October 3, from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm. Attached to this email is a letter with more information about this annual event that you don’t want to miss.

Admissions
We need your help, join the Havergal Welcome Committee! Click here to join us at our Welcome Committee Orientation Meeting on October 1 at 9:00 am in the Learning Hub - http://goo.gl/forms/tdYythql46
.

Starbooks
The Junior School values their parents as partners in the education of their daughters. We hold Starbooks presentations during the year to share our teaching approaches with parents. Our faculty are always so pleased to share their expertise with parents. Starbooks presentations are always in the JS Learning Hub from 8:30-9:15 am. All are welcome and coffee and coffee is provided. Our first Starbooks for 2015 is on Wednesday, October 14 and the subject will be about independent reading. This session is appropriate for parents from JK  to Grade 6.

Athletics: A message from JS Athletic Director Annie Maki
Please check out Veracross and the school calendar to view meet dates. A few reminders:
Basketball: Please pick up your daughter at the Junior School after the girls return together from the Upper School gymnasiums.
Cross Country: We are attending our first meet next week. This meet is for grades 4, 5 and 6 team members. The coaches will be emailing you the first team message shortly. Included in this message is the Acknowledgement and Assumption of Risk form that we require you to read, sign and return before your daughter can compete at any of the meets. Cross country practices are on Tuesdays and Thursdays starting at 7:25 am.
Swim Team: Our swim championships, Bishop’s Cup will be hosted here at Havergal College on Wednesday, October 28.Practices are on Tuesdays at 7:00 am, and Wednesdays at 3:45-5:00 pm.

Co-Curricular Clubs: Session Dates
Mondays:
ABT Ballet @ September 14, 21, 28, October 5, 19, 26, November 2, 9, 23, 30, December 7 (session times advised by Ms. Wade)
Chess Lunch Club & Basketball Clinic @ September 28, October 5, 19, 26, November 2, 9, 23, 30
Zodiactors @ September 21, 28, October 5, 19, 26, November 2, 9, 23, 30, with a performance on December 7
Tuesdays:
Corking Club, Junior Choir, Multi-Sports, One Act Plays, SIT/Primary @ September 29, October 6, 13, 20, 27, November 3, 10, 17
Wednesdays:
SIT/AM (Grades 1-6) at 7:45-8:30 am @ September 30, October 7, 14, 21, 28, November 4, 18, 25
Junior Tennis Club @ September 16, 23, 30, October 7, 14, 21, 28, November 4
Primary Choir & SIT/Junior @ September 30, October 7, 14, 21, 28, November 4, 18, 25
Thursdays:
Fashion Design, Junior Journalists, Science & Video Games Design Clubs @ October 1, 8, 15, 29, November 5, 19, 26, December 3


Parent Portal Reminder  

For detailed information about your family’s household calendar, I encourage you to log onto Veracross through the Parent Portal (http://www.community.havergal.on.ca ). For the latest school news, visit http://www.havergal.on.ca/news

Warmly,
Leslie Anne Dexter