Junior School Week at a Glance

Friday, 29 April 2016

Message from The Head of Junior School: April 29, 2016

Dear Parents,

Many of you have noticed a new face in the JS hallways and patrolling the HC property this week. Please welcome Mr. Parm (pictured below), to our community. Look for him and other members of the HC Security team on site until the end of the school year during school hours at the Junior School. As a direct result of a recent security audit, and under the direction of Rob Stepien, HC Director of Security, we are delighted to have them here both inside our building, and outside on our campus daily as we go into the most active time of the school year.

Warmly,

Leslie Anne Dexter

HEALTH WEEK - May 2-6

Next week, the JS joins the US to celebrate Health Week! The week's main focus will be on the importance of maintaining positive physical, mental and emotional health. Your daughter will engage in a myriad of activities conducive to all-round positive health. All the senses will be considered, such as soothing music in the corridors at drop-off/pick-up and during recess, fresh air during brisk ravine walks, and our first-ever 'graffiti wall' where students will share positive messages to motivate and inspire!

NEW GRADE SEVEN LUNCH
Both of the Grade Six classes will be attending the New Grade Seven Lunch in the Brenda Robson Hall on Tuesday, May 3. The girls will meet the incoming Grade Seven students, eat lunch in their Houses, play games and be entertained by the 2016-17 House Captains. Principal Helen-Kay Davy will welcome all of the students officially to the Middle School. Following the lunch, the girls will be given a tour of the Upper School with a member of the Senior Welcome Committee. This is always a fun event as the girls begin to get excited about their transition to the Upper School.

A MESSAGE TO PARENTS OF GRADES 4, 5, AND 6 FROM MS. BARTLETT
Just a quick reminder that there is a dance rehearsal for all girls in grades 4, 5 and 6 on Tuesday, May 3 from 8:20-9:00 am to practice for their presentation at Prayers on Monday, May 9. Parents are encouraged to come watch!

CELEBRATION OF THE ARTS

Mark the following dates on your calendar and join your daughter(s) at the following celebrations:

Kindergarten Arts Afternoon on Friday, May 6 at 2:00 pm - showcasing the Junior and Senior Kindergarten classes' study and appreciation of the 'Four Seasons' through song, dance, art and word.
Primary Arts Night - Grades 1-3 on Tuesday, May 10 at 6:30-7:30 pm - highlighting French Canadian music through song, a hallway gallery of artwork and written work from across the grades, and integrated dance projects.
Junior Arts Night - Grades 4-6 on Thursday, May 12 at 6:15-8:30 pm - showcasing the ways that dance, literary arts, media arts, music and visual arts are integrated across the curriculum. Travel from venue to venue to enjoy the artwork that fills the hallways, to listen to music and poetry, watch animations, French plays, dances and more!

JS GRANDPALS' DAY
Please note that Grandpals' Day has been moved to Friday, May 13
Mark your calendars and invite your special grand-friends to join us at the Junior School. Please note the following:

Reception starting at 9:30 am in the JS Learning Hub (this is optional)
Assembly at 11:00 am in the JS gymnasium
Classroom visits to follow

GRANDCHILDREN'S PARTY - WEDNESDAY, MAY 25 AT 3:30-5:30 PM
All Old Girls and current parents are welcome to join us to celebrate more than 100 years of tradition! The Havergal Grandchildren's Party was started in 1910 by first Principal Ellen Knox for Old Girls and their descendants. The event is an opportunity for all Old Girls, parents, their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren (girls and boys) to visit the school for an afternoon of exciting games, music, pony rides, critters, treats and more. This event takes place rain or shine. We hope to see you here! For more information and to RSVP, please visit: www.havergal.on.ca/grandchildrensparty

CO-CURRICULAR CLUBS - SPRING SESSION DATES
Parents- please note the date changes for the Squad Team Basketball & Squad Team Softball as they have been amended and differ from what is indicated on the verification slip given to your daughter.

Mondays:

ABT Ballet: April 4, 11, 18, 25, May 2, 9, 16, 30 @ times advised by Ms. Wade

Chess Lunch Club: April 4, 11, 18, 25, May 2, 9, 16, 30 @ 11:50-12:50 pm

Squad Basketball Team: April 11, 18, 25, May 2, 9, 16, 30, June 6 @ 3:45-4:45 pm

Tuesdays:

Junior Choir: Dates advised by Mr. MacLean @ 3:30-4:15 pm
Mindful Moments Club: April 5, 12, 19, 26, May 3, 10, 17, 24 @ 3:45-4:45 pm
SIT/Primary: April 5, 12, 19, 26, May 3, 10, 17, 24 @ 3:45-4:45 pm
Squad Yoga: April 5, 12, 19, 26, May 3, 10, 17, 24 @ 3:45-4:45 pm
Word Games Club: April 5, 12, 19, 26, May 3, 10, 17, 24 @ 3:45-4:45 pm

Wednesdays:

Junior Choir: Dates advised by Mr. MacLean @ 3:45-4:15 pm
SIT/Junior: April 6, 13, 20, 27, May 4, 11, 18, 25 @ 3:45-4:45 pm
Squad Team Softball: April 13, 20, 27, May 4, 11, 18, 25, June 1 @ 3:45-4:45 pm
Watercolour Wednesdays Art Club: April 6, 13, 20, 27, May 4, 11, 18, 25 @ 3:45-4:45 pm

Thursdays:

Gator Gardening Club: April 7, 14, 21, 28, May 5, 12, 19, 26 @ 3:45-4:45 pm
Science Design Club: April 7, 14, 21, 28, May 5, 12, 19, 26 @ 3:45-4:45 pm
Squad Karate: April 7, 14, 21, 28, May 5, 12, 19, 26 @ 3:45-4:45 pm
Squad Team Softball: April 7, 14, 21, 28, May 5, 12, 19, 26 @ 3:45-4:45 pm

DATES YOU NEED TO KNOW:

Monday, May 2: JS Pizza Lunch
Monday, May 2 - Friday, May 6: Health Week
Thursday, May 5: JS Staff Appreciation Day
Friday, May 6: Kindergarten Arts Afternoon @ 2:00 pm in the JS Gymnasium
Tuesday, May 10: Primary Arts Night @ 6:30 pm in the JS Gymnasium
Wednesday, May 11: JS Grade Rep Meeting @ 8:30 am
Thursday, May 12: Junior Arts Night @ 6:15 pm in the JS
Friday, May 13: JS Grandpals' Day (see above)
Tuesday, May 17: House Shout at 2:00 pm on Ratcliffe Field
Monday, May 23: Victoria Day Holiday - NO SCHOOL

Friday, 22 April 2016

Message From the Head of Junior School: April 22, 2016

Dear Parents,

Yesterday the girls in grades 1-12 joined faculty, staff, Old Girls and parents at Havergal's original parish - St. Paul's Anglican Church on Bloor Street to celebrate Founders' Day. This annual event marks the anniversary of the laying of the cornerstone at the Upper School on April 23, 1926. It is an important opportunity to gather together as a community to honour Havergal's history. Congratulations to the Junior Choir, who along with the Middle and Upper School Choirs performed during the service.

Warmly,

Leslie Anne Dexter

HEALTH WEEK - May 2-6

During the week of May 2-6, the JS joins the US to celebrate Health Week! The week's main focus will be on the importance of maintaining positive physical, mental and emotional health. Your daughter will engage in a myriad of activities conducive to all-round positive health. All the senses will be considered, such as soothing music in the corridors at drop-off/pick-up and during recess, fresh air during brisk ravine walks, and our first-ever 'graffiti wall' where students will share positive messages to motivate and inspire!

CELEBRATION OF THE ARTS

Mark the following dates on your calendar and join your daughter(s) at the following celebrations:

Kindergarten Arts Afternoon on Friday, May 6 at 2:00 pm - showcasing the Junior and Senior Kindergarten classes' study and appreciation of the 'Four Seasons' through song, dance, art and word.
Primary Arts Night - Grades 1-3 on Tuesday, May 10 at 6:30-7:30 pm - highlighting French Canadian music through song, a hallway gallery of artwork and written work from across the grades, and integrated dance projects.
Junior Arts Night - Grades 4-6 on Thursday, May 12 at 6:15-8:30 pm - showcasing the ways that dance, literary arts, media arts, music and visual arts are integrated across the curriculum. Travel from venue to venue to enjoy the artwork that fills the hallways, to listen to music and poetry, watch animations, French plays, dances and more!

Reception starting at 9:30 am in the JS Learning Hub (this is optional)
Assembly at 11:00 am in the JS gymnasium
Classroom visits to follow

If your daughter's special Grandpal is not able to attend, we encourage them to write a message and email it to ygarland@havergal.on.ca. Their words will be printed on a lovely certificate and delivered to classrooms after the assembly. In order to have these prepared in time, we ask that we receive all Grandpal messages by Thursday, May 12.

STARBOOKS - MATHEMATICAL MINDSETS - LINKS TO PRESENTATION
Thank you to the parents who joined us this past Wednesday, to hear JS teachers Britney Coleman and Dan McCrae's math presentation at our Starbooks parent session. If you weren't able to attend, or if you want more information about encouraging a 'growth mindset', please take a look at the following links:
https://www.havergal.on.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/StarbooksParentResource.pdf
https://www.havergal.on.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Starbooks-MathMindsetMistakes.pdf

NEW CIRCLES - SPRING CLOTHING DRIVE
Thanks to your generous donations of clothing/footwear and more this past autumn, our community partner New Circles was able to provide and support many families new to our cold Canadian climate with the necessities that they sorely needed. The success of this autumn campaign has spurned our students to launch a spring/summer collection. If you have gently used spring clothing, jackets, footwear, hats, etc. that you wish to donate, collection bins will be located outside our Learning Hub from April 4 - May 4.

CO-CURRICULAR CLUBS - SPRING SESSION DATES
Parents- please note the date changes for the Squad Team Basketball & Squad Team Softball as they have been amended and differ from what is indicated on the verification slip given to your daughter.

Mondays:

ABT Ballet: April 4, 11, 18, 25, May 2, 9, 16, 30 @ times advised by Ms. Wade

Chess Lunch Club: April 4, 11, 18, 25, May 2, 9, 16, 30 @ 11:50-12:50 pm

Squad Basketball Team: April 11, 18, 25, May 2, 9, 16, 30, June 6 @ 3:45-4:45 pm

Tuesdays:

Wednesdays:

Thursdays:

DATES YOU NEED TO KNOW:

Wednesday, April 27: Grade 6 Lunch @ US Hawkin's Dining Hall
Monday, May 2: JS Pizza Lunch
Monday, May 2 - Friday, May 6: Health Week
Thursday, May 5: JS Staff Appreciation Day
Friday, May 6: Kindergarten Arts Afternoon @ 2:00 pm in the JS Gymnasium
Tuesday, May 10: Primary Arts Night @ 6:30 pm in the JS Gymnasium
Wednesday, May 11: JS Grade Rep Meeting @ 8:30 am
Thursday, May 12: Junior Arts Night @ 6:15 pm in the JS
Friday, May 13: JS Grandpals' Day (see above)
Tuesday, May 17: House Shout
Monday, May 23: Victoria Day Holiday - NO SCHOOL

Friday, 15 April 2016

Message From the Head of Junior School: April 15, 2016

Dear Parents,

As I write this, the sun is shining and our temperature is actually in the plus column, I think it's safe to say that spring is finally here! With it comes many activities and events that you need to know about. Below please find information to keep you 'in the loop' and able to navigate through the next few weeks.

Warmly,

Leslie Anne Dexter

JS STARBOOKS - MATHEMATICAL MINDSETS: WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20
It isn't uncommon for students to feel frustrated when trying to solve math equations, and ultimately taking the attitude that they simply can't succeed. With the right tools and tricks, you can learn how to turn a negative mindset into a positive growth mindset. Join Junior School teachers and math specialists - Britney Coleman and Dan McCrae as they present a seminar on Wednesday, April 20 at 8:30 am in the JS Learning Hub. This presentation will be of interest to all JS parents from grades JK-6.

FOUNDERS' DAY - THURSDAY, APRIL 21
Founders' Day is a birthday, of sorts, that builds HC community. It is a longstanding tradition in the life of Havergal that brings together students, faculty and staff from both the Junior and Upper Schools. It marks the anniversary of the cornerstone being laid at the "New School" on Avenue Road in 1926. Please note the following details:

Thursday, April 21 at St. Paul's Cathedral (Bloor Street)
Regular school day for JK and SK
All students in grades 1-6 are to be dressed in #1 Concert Dress Uniform consisting of: a long sleeve white blouse, HC tie, green socks and black shoes with either a kilt (grades 5+6), or tunic (grades 1-4) + special attention to her hair, hair should be pinned back using a plain accessory such as a small pin, or a headband without colour, sparkles or embellishments
Members of the Junior Choir are to arrive at school at 7:15 am and will depart by bus at 7:30 am (sharp!)
All other students in grades 1-6 are to arrive at school for attendance at 8:00 am, to load the bus at 8:10 am for an 8:30 am departure
The service will begin at 9:30 am
We anticipate students to return to the JS by 11:30 am, followed by an outdoor recess
Lunch will take place as normal, with an ice-cream treat served to celebrate
The afternoon schedule remains as usual

EARTH DAY MOVIE: OFFSITE EXCURSION FOR GRADES 1-6 - FRIDAY, APRIL 22

Parents of students in grades 1-6 should have already received a permission form for your daughter to attend this Earth Day offsite excursion to the SilverCity Cinema at Yonge/Eglinton to see National Geographic's "Arctic Tale". This brilliant documentary introduces us to Nanu, a polar bear cub and Seela, a walrus pup and follows their journey from birth to maturity. It is a fascinating tale with an important environmental message that we can all learn from.

Students in grades 1-3 will travel to and from the theatre by bus, while students in grades 4-6 will enjoy walking with faculty and staff, weather permitting. In the event of inclement weather, they will also travel by bus.

No outside food/drink is allowed in the theatre; however, your daughter has the option of receiving a small serving of popcorn, and either a Fruitopia or water from the concession stand. If you haven't signed and returned the permission form yet, we ask that you do so as soon as possible.

HEALTH WEEK - May 2-6
I'm delighted share that during the week of May 2-6, the JS joins the US to celebrate Health Week! The week's main focus will be on the importance of maintaining positive physical, mental and emotional health. Your daughter will engage in a myriad of activities conducive to all-round positive health. All the senses will be considered, such as soothing music in the corridors at drop-off/pick-up and during recess, fresh air during brisk ravine walks, and our first-ever 'graffiti wall' where students will share positive messages to motivate and inspire!

JS GRANDPALS' DAY
Please note that Grandpals' Day has been moved to Friday, May 13
Mark your calendars and invite your special grand-friends to join us at the Junior School. Please note the following:

Reception starting at 9:30 am in the JS Learning Hub (this is optional)
Assembly at 11:00 am in the JS gymnasium
Classroom visits to follow

Mondays:

ABT Ballet: April 4, 11, 18, 25, May 2, 9, 16, 30 @ times advised by Ms. Wade

Chess Lunch Club: April 4, 11, 18, 25, May 2, 9, 16, 30 @ 11:50-12:50 pm

Squad Basketball Team: April 11, 18, 25, May 2, 9, 16, 30, June 6 @ 3:45-4:45 pm

Tuesdays:

Wednesdays:

Thursdays:

DATES YOU NEED TO KNOW:

Wednesday, April 20: JS Starbooks Parent Session: Mathematical Mindsets (see above)
Thursday, April 21: Founders' Day (see above)
Friday, April 22: Earth Day Movie Excursion (see above)
Wednesday, April 27: Grade 6 Lunch @ US Hawkin's Dining Hall
Monday, May 2: JS Pizza Lunch
Monday, May 2 - Friday, May 6: Health Week
Tuesday, May 10: Primary Arts Night @ 6:30 pm in the JS Gymnasium
Thursday, May 12: Junior Arts Carousel @ 6:15 pm in the JS
Friday, May 13: JS Grandpals' Day (see above)

Friday, 8 April 2016

Message From the Head of Junior School: April 8, 2016

Dear Parents,

Although spring is officially here it feels more like winter has finally arrived! Some days we enjoy sunshine and warmer weather, and other days we have snow to shovel and slippery sidewalks to deal with. Our back field is especially muddy during this seasonal changeover and the Burke Brook is very enticing to young school girls. Teachers on duty have been instructed to keep girls away from the brook and I ask that you reinforce this with your daughter(s) as well. It is important for our girls to get outdoors when they can, so we ask that your daughter dress for the spring weather accordingly. You may wish to send her to school with track pants to protect her clothing while playing at recess, and possibly a spare pair of socks (tights) to keep in her locker/cubby in the event she gets muddy or slips on the back field. As always, we have gently used uniform pieces available in the main office that we are happy to share.

Warmly,

Leslie Anne Dexter

NEW: STUDENTS INVITED TO WEAR A HOUSE COLOURED ACCESSORY TO SCHOOL ON TUESDAY, APRIL 12
Let's show our HC House spring spirit! On Tuesday, April 12, please send your daughter to school in her HC uniform embellished with a small House coloured accessory such as: a hair barrette or hair band, House hat, necklace or pin, etc. It will be a great opportunity to take fun photos that may be used in this year's edition of Ludemus.

JS STARBOOKS - MATHEMATICAL MINDSETS: WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20
It isn't uncommon for students to feel frustrated when trying to solve math equations, and ultimately taking the attitude that they simply can't succeed. With the right tools and tricks, you can learn how to turn a negative mindset into a positive growth mindset. Join Junior School teachers and math specialists - Britney Coleman and Dan McCrae as they present a seminar on Wednesday, April 20 at 8:30 am in the JS Learning Hub. This presentation will be of interest to all JS parents.

IMPORTANT TO NOTE - GRANDPALS' DAY DATE CHANGE
Grandpals' Day has been moved to Friday, May 13 at 8:30-12:00 pm, please mark your calendars and invite your special grand-friends to join us at the Junior School. Please make sure that your loved ones are informed of this change.

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 at servicedesk@havergal.on.ca

Mondays:

ABT Ballet: April 4, 11, 18, 25, May 2, 9, 16, 30 @ times advised by Ms. Wade

Chess Lunch Club: April 4, 11, 18, 25, May 2, 9, 16, 30 @ 11:50-12:50 pm

Squad Basketball Team: April 11, 18, 25, May 2, 9, 16, 30, June 6 @ 3:45-4:45 pm

Tuesdays:

Wednesdays:

Thursdays:

DATES YOU NEED TO KNOW:

Tuesday, April 12: * NEW PLEASE NOTE: Students invited to wear a small House-coloured accessory to their uniform
Tuesday, April 12: Blazer Fittings, Grade 6G @ 11:50 am
Wednesday, April 13: JS Grade Rep Meeting @ 8:30 am
Wednesday, April 13: HCPA Meeting @ 1:00 pm in the EK Library (US)
Thursday, April 14: Blazer Fittings, Grade 6L @ 11:50 am
Wednesday, April 20: JS Starbooks Parent Session: Mathematics @ 8:30 am
Thursday, April 21: Founders' Day (more info to follow)
Friday, April 22: Earth Day Movie Excursion @ 9:00 am, Grades 1-6
Wednesday, April 27: Grade 6 Lunch @ US Hawkin's Dining Hall
Monday, May 2: JS Pizza Lunch

Friday, 1 April 2016

Message From the Head of Junior School: April 1, 2016

Dear Parents,

In my message to you on December 4th, I shared an important parent letter that I received which addressed student safety at drop off and pick up. In that message, I asked parents to:

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.

Expanding on this, I'd like to remind you that parents are encouraged to drop their daughter(s) off at the curbside area marked "No Parking", directly in front of the main entry doors. We ask that you remain in your car as she makes her way to the front doors. Do not leave your car unattended in this lane at any time. If you wish to escort your daughter into the building, we ask that you park your car on the West Junior School parking lot. The drop-off area is designated for those who require a quick morning drop-off, and to allow parents/caregivers the security of seeing students walk safely into the building before moving on so that others can follow suit. This is especially important during inclement weather, such as rainy days so that students can enter the building as safely and quickly as possible while keeping dry. I cannot stress enough how much we need your help to make this work for all of us.

Warmly,

Leslie Anne Dexter

IMPORTANT TO NOTE - GRANDPALS' DAY DATE CHANGE
Grandpal's Day has been moved to Friday, May 13 at 8:30-12:00 pm, please mark your calendars and invite your special grand-friends to join us at the Junior School. Please make sure that your loved ones are informed of this change.

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 at servicedesk@havergal.on.ca

JS Pi DAY - A GREAT SUCCESS!

On the Friday before March Break, the students in grades 1-6, along with all of their teachers, spent an exciting afternoon celebrating the first ever Junior School Pi Day. The afternoon started with all of the staff and students dressing up in mathematical themed costumes. There were calculators, various equations, 'pi' rates, a ruler and even a few Einsteins! Afterwards some grade 5 students ran a very informative assembly where we learned all about the history of Pi, why it is celebrated on March 14, and enjoy demonstrations to understand where 3.14 really comes from. Seven students in the junior division challenged themselves by memorizing more than 50 digits of Pi to share with us. Very impressive! We also learned that Pi Day is important because it is the birthday of one of the most influential physicists of the 20th century - Albert Einstein. Einstein taught us about perseverance and hard work and that mistakes are important because a person who never makes mistakes is a person who never tries anything new. With that knowledge, the students went back to their classrooms to apply their problem-solving skills and perseverance in escape-room inspired mathematical and logical challenges. It was a fun-filled afternoon and a fabulous way to end the winter term.

NEW CIRCLES - SPRING CLOTHING DRIVE
Thanks to your generous donations of clothing/footwear and more this past autumn, our community partner New Circles was able to provide and support many families new to our cold Canadian climate with the necessities that they sorely needed. The success of this autumn campaign has spurned our students to launch a spring/summer collection. If you have gently used spring clothing, jackets, footwear, hats, etc. that you wish to donate, collection bins will be located outside our Learning Hub from April 4 - May 4.

A MESSAGE FROM ERICA RODD - JS LIBRARIAN
The book drive for the Children's Book Bank was a great success! Before our March Break, Ms. Campbell and I dropped off over 15 boxes to the Children's Book Bank - that's over 1,500 books! These books will become part of the Book Bank storefront, where children in low income communities will be able to browse, and take home a book for free to keep forever. Thank you for all your support and for being so considerate and thoughtful with your book donations!

Mondays:

ABT Ballet: April 4, 11, 18, 25, May 2, 9, 16, 30 @ times advised by Ms. Wade

Chess Lunch Club: April 4, 11, 18, 25, May 2, 9, 16, 30 @ 11:50-12:50 pm

Squad Basketball Team: April 11, 18, 25, May 2, 9, 16, 30, June 6 @ 3:45-4:45 pm

Tuesdays:

Wednesdays:

Thursdays:

DATES YOU NEED TO KNOW:

Monday, April 4: JS Pizza Lunch

Tuesday, April 5: Kilt Fittings, Grade 4P @ 11:50 am

Thursday, April 7: Kilt Fittings, Grade 4PR @ 11:50 am
Tuesday, April 12: Blazer Fittings, Grade 6G @ 11:50 am
Wednesday, April 13: JS Grade Rep Meeting @ 8:30 am
Wednesday, April 13: HCPA Meeting @ 1:00 pm in the EK Library (US)
Thursday, April 14: Blazer Fittings, Grade 6L @ 11:50 am
Wednesday, April 20: JS Starbooks Parent Session: Mathematics @ 8:30 am
Thursday, April 21: Founders' Day (more info to follow)
Friday, April 22: Earth Day Movie Excursion @ 9:00 am, Grades 1-6
Wednesday, April 27: Grade 6 Lunch @ US Hawkin's Dining Hall
Monday, May 2: JS Pizza Lunch

Friday, 11 March 2016

Message From the Head of Junior School: March 11, 2016

Dear Parents,

March Break is finally here and not a minute too soon! We've had a relatively mild winter, but I do believe that most of us are ready to enjoy some time off. I know many of you are heading to sunny climates, and some of you to spend time up north, while others will remain local and will have a 'stay-cation' in Toronto. No matter where you are going, or what you are doing, on behalf of all the JS faculty and staff - I wish you a wonderful, restful, happy March Break.

Warmly,

Leslie Anne Dexter

SAVE THE DATE - GRANDPALS' DAY DATE CHANGE
Grandpal's Day has been moved to Friday, May 13 at 8:30-12:00 pm, please mark your calendars and invite your special grand-friends to join us at the Junior School.

A MESSAGE FROM SEONAID DAVIS, DIRECTOR OF CURRICULUM & FACULTY DEVELOPMENT
On Thursday, April 7, Dr. Leonard Sax will be speaking at the York School between 7:00-9:00 pm. Dr. Sax is a renowned clinician and author of four books for parents, including recent New York Times bestseller, The Collapse of Parenting. I highly recommend that you read his most recent article in MacLean's magazine, "The Collapse of Parenting - Why Its Time For Parents To Grow Up", at the following link: http://www.macleans.ca/society/the-collapse-of-parenting-why-its-time-for-parents-to-grow-up/

In recent years, there has been a transfer of authority from parents to children. In his presentation, Dr. Sax will offer practical strategies to help parents make sense of their roles and to help their children lead happier and healthier lives.

The York School (campus at 1320 Yonge Street) has very kindly invited our HC community, including faulty and parents to join them at no cost. They do however, ask that you RSVP at: yorkschool.com/drsax

JS ATHLETICS - A MESSAGE FROM ANNIE MAKI, JS ATHLETIC DIRECTOR
As you may know, Havergal College is a proud member of the Conference of Independent Schools' Athletic Association (CISAA). The CISAA provides development opportunities for coaches, parents and student athletes. This year the CISAA and a partner organization, the Positive Coaching Alliance are offering a workshop during the first week of April and you are invited. The workshop takes place at Upper Canada College, in the George Weston Hall on Tuesday, April 5 from 7:00-8:15 pm.

"The Second-Goal Parent: Developing Winners in Life Through Sports" is a 75 minute interactive workshop exploring the role of a second-goal parent, who supports their child so that he/she enjoys a positive experience in sports.

Topics discussed will include:

How parents can help ensure that their child experiences a healthy, developmental (physical/social/mental) outcome that will serve them far beyond the playing field.
Guidelines for developing a positive coach/parent relationship.
Understanding the three research-based stages of talent development.
Engaging children in constructive, meaningful conversations.
Insight into the training of coaches and what it means to be a double-goal coach.

For more information on positive coaching, visit the Positive Coaching Alliance website here: https://positivecoach.org

There is no cost to attend, but an RSVP is required as booklets for all participants will be ordered in advance. Please register here: <https://www.netdirectories.com/~ucc/oler2.cgi?1346>

Mondays:

ABT Ballet: April 4, 11, 18, 25, May 2, 9, 16, 30 @ times advised by Ms. Wade

Chess Lunch Club: April 4, 11, 18, 25, May 2, 9, 16, 30 @ 11:50-12:50 pm

Squad Basketball Team: April 11, 18, 25, May 2, 9, 16, 30, June 6 @ 3:45-4:45 pm

Tuesdays:

Wednesdays:

Thursdays:

DATES YOU NEED TO KNOW:

Monday, March 14 - Monday, March 28: Spring Break/Easter Holiday - NO SCHOOL

Tuesday, March 29: Back to school!

Wednesday, March 30: Grade 6 Lunch @ US Hawkin's Dining Hall

Friday, 4 March 2016

Message From the Head Of Junior School: March, 4, 2016

Dear Parents,

The safe dismissal and/or pick up of our JS students is a priority at the Junior School, and can be challenging due to many factors, such as congestion and weather. The dismissal process involves numerous faculty members both inside and outside the building, dedicated to getting girls dressed in their winter gear, personal items packed up and ready to go. We are extremely fortunate to have Manny, our school crossing guard here daily coordinating vehicular and pedestrian traffic with safety as his main priority.

IMPORTANT TO NOTE: STUDENTS LEAVING HC CAMPUS TO WALK HOME ALONE: Thank you to those parents who have already sent us written authority granting your daughter(s) permission to leave our property and walk home by themselves. It is imperative that if you want your daughter to leave the HC campus and walk home by herself on a regular basis, we must have written permission as soon as possible.

Understandably, on occasion there are special circumstances, whereby you may not be able to collect your daughter and on short notice you would like for her to walk home. In these 'one-of' situations, your daughter is required to sign-out in the main office before leaving campus. I ask that you discuss this precaution with her and remind her of the importance of this extra security step. We will address this in morning Prayers as well.

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

Warmly,

Leslie Anne Dexter

IMPORTANT TO NOTE - PIZZA LUNCH DATE CHANGE
As you will see in the 'Dates You Need To Know' section below, we have moved the March Pizza Lunch date from Monday, March 7 to Friday March 11 to coincide with 'JS Pi Day' (more information below). You may recall seeing an auction item at Celebration Saturday where some lucky girls purchased the opportunity to throw a pie at a JS teacher. Eight girls will limber up, get their pitching arm ready and give it their all as they toss a pie at a teacher after the JS Pizza Lunch on Friday, March 11. Please remember to send a lunch to school on Monday, March 7 or order from Rose Reisman Catering.

JS PI (PIE) DAY - Non-Uniform (grub) Dress
The first known Pi Day was organized in 1988 by a physicist named Larry Shaw. To celebrate, participants spent the day marching around in circles while eating pie! In 2009, March 14 was officially recognized as National Pi Day. This particular date was chosen because it is the 14th day of the 3rd month - or 3.14. Since then, every year on March 14, people around the world celebrate Pi, the most useful of all irrational numbers.

This year, on the afternoon of Friday, March 11, the Junior School will celebrate our first ever Pi Day. The faculty, staff and students are invited to dress up as anything mathematical, ie: favourite mathematician, shape, number, etc., or mathematical concept that they can conceive.

The afternoon will begin with a pizza lunch followed by a pie toss. The eight girls who successfully bid on the Celebration Saturday auction item will toss a cream pie at a JS teacher after our pizza lunch. Afterwards the girls in grades 1-6 will apply their problem-solving & perseverance skills to work in escape-room inspired mathematical/logical brain challenges. Parents are invited to participate in challenges of their own in the JS gymnasium. We are looking forward to fun-filled mathematical day!

PRIMARY & JUNIOR CHOIRS - A MESSAGE FROM MR. MacLEAN
Last week our Primary Choir participated in the Kiwanis Festival. The girls sang beautifully, and I'm proud to say that we walked away with 1st place! We came in 3rd place overall out of nine primary choirs that competed throughout the week. The top two choirs were made up of only grade 3 students, so we are especially proud of our efforts, Thank you to the parents and faculty who came out to support us.

At the following link, you will see their presentation of Nursery Rhyme Nonsense from yesterday's Prayers:
Nursery Rhyme Nonsense: https://youtu.be/cbvsS0BJto0

The Junior Choir also performed at Prayers yesterday, please enjoy this rendition of Al Shlosha D'Varim:

Al Shlosha D’Varim: https://youtu.be/5F3x8qXw4io

JS ATHLETICS - A MESSAGE FROM ANNIE MAKI, JS ATHLETIC DIRECTOR
We have had a lot of fun these last two week watching our winter athletes playing and swimming in their championship games/meets. Look for details and pictures in next week's issue of Gator Zone. Congratulations to the U11 Swim Team members for taking first place, and to the U12/D1 Volleyball Team for winning the league championship. We are so proud of all our athletes!

We celebrate our fall and winter athletes on Wednesday, March 9 at an 'Athletes Breakfast'. This breakfast is meant for girls who played on CISAA league teams only, and does not include squad team participants. Parents, please drop your daughter off at the Upper School at 7:15 am, as we will meet in the Hawkin's Dining Hall. Alternatively, athletic coaches will be on hand at 7:10 am in the JS to walk girls over to the Upper School.

Our Volleyball Squad Team show off their skills this coming Monday when they play an intra-squad game in the big gym at the Upper School. Coaches Bernice Wu and Sarah Szolopiak can't wait to see the girls play another game!

The spring season is almost here and with it, JS spring teams: Grade 5/6 Softball (combined) and Grade 4-6 Track & Field. If you are travelling to warmer climates over the March Break, our spring athletes request that you bring home some sunshine and warm weather because they are anxious to get outdoors and practice hard!

Online registration for both spring teams is now open. The link is available to you on both your parent portal and on your daughter's Veracross home page. Softball tryouts and Track & Field practices begin the week of Monday, April 4. Schedules will be available shortly.

MARCH BREAK & LOST AND FOUND ARTICLES
We dismiss for March Break on Friday, March 11 at 3:30 pm, as usual our Gator Care program is available until 6:00 pm. We return on Tuesday, March 29. While we are all enjoying time away, there is a lot of work going on behind the scenes, and part of that is 'spring cleaning'. We need your help, Thursday, March 10 is locker/cubby clean out day, please send your daughter to school with a bag so that she can bring items home. Thanks to Ms. Lulu, our day matron all lost and found items will be put on display in the foyer in time for afternoon pick-up. Please encourage your daughter to search through these treasures to find anything she might be missing. Parents are welcome to look as well.

MABEL'S FABLES IS COMING BACK!
During the week of March 7-11, the Learning Hub will be hosting the Mabel's Fables Book Fair. This is always an exciting time in the Junior School as they bring an excellent array of high quality children's literature to choose from - and just in time for March Break!

On Tuesday and Wednesday, the fair will be set up for browsing. Students will have scheduled times to browse and fill out wish lists to bring home. On Thursday and Friday a Mabel's Fables staff member will be here to collect payments. Students will again have a scheduled time to make purchases. Parents are welcome anytime to browse and purchase.

The Learning Hub directly benefits from the fair, as we receive a portion of the sales that goes toward new books for our collection. Mabel's Fables will accept Visa, MasterCard, cash or a cheque made payable to Mabel's Fables. If you have any questions, please contact Erica Rodd at erodd@havergal.on.ca or by phone at 416-483-3843, extension 7544.

CO-CURRICULAR CLUBS - REMAINING WINTER SESSION DATES

Mondays:

ABT Ballet: March 7 @ times advised by Ms. Wade

Chess Lunch Club: March 7 @ 11:50-12:50 pm

Squad Volleyball Team: March 7 @ 3:45-4:45 pm

Tuesdays:

Games Galore Club: March 8 @ 3:45-4:45 pm

All other clubs finished for the winter session

Wednesdays:

All clubs finished for the winter session

Thursdays:

Crafty Science, Lego Engineering & Photojournalist's Clubs + Squad Karate: March 10 @ 3:45-4:45 pm

NEXT WEEK AT A GLANCE:

~~Monday, March 7: JS Pizza Lunch @ 11:50-12:50 pm~~ * NOTE DATE CHANGE TO 3/11/16

Monday, March 7 - Friday, March 11: JS Mabel's Fables Book Fair in the JS Learning Hub

Monday, March 9: Lost & Found Items on display in the main foyer
Wednesday, March 9: JS Grade Rep Meeting @ 8:30-9:30 am

Thursday, March 10: JS locker/cubby clean out

Friday, March 11: Students invited to wear non-uniform (grub) dress as a mathematical number/shape or favourite mathematician

Friday, March 11: JS Pizza Lunch @ 11:50-12:50 pm * NOTE DATE CHANGE

Friday, March 11: JS 'Pi" Day - Celebration Saturday auction item - pies thrown at JS teachers after pizza lunch

Friday, March 11: JS closes @ 3:30 pm, aftercare available until 6:00 pm

DATES YOU NEED TO KNOW:

Monday, March 14 - Monday, March 28: Spring Break/Easter Holiday - NO SCHOOL

Tuesday, March 29: Back to school!

Wednesday, March 30: Grade 6 Lunch @ US Hawkin's Dining Hall