Message From the Head of Junior School: January 29, 2016

'Twas the week before spirit,
and all through the school ....
The HC gals were wondering what would be cool.
Bring your craziness and jazz,
everyone show their inner pizzazz ....
Get real J S H C,
for we will bring our radical spirit unto thee!
Spirit Week is when all of HC, even the Upper School celebrate being in a community together.
We will have fun things to wear and lots of fun things to do .... even a hockey game!
So get ready, Junior School because Spirit Week is coming up NEXT week!



Dear Parents,

The above was written by Grade 6 Leaders Phoebe Ferguson and Shannon Smith and was read by Hannah Feeney and Julia Zigelstein at Prayers last Monday morning. As you can see, our girls are excited about Spirit Week which starts on Monday, February 1. Your daughter is invited to show her personality and 'inner pizzazz' throughout the week by dressing as indicated below and participating in the many events planned with fun in mind.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish Ms. Lois Rowe the very best as she begins her 6 month sabbatical. I know she will miss being with the students and her colleagues here at Havergal; however, she has many exciting adventures planned for her time away. I look forward to welcoming her back when the 2016-2017 school year begins. Parents will continue to receive email messages from Ms. Rowe throughout the spring and summer.

Warmly,
Leslie Anne




SPIRIT WEEK IN THE JUNIOR SCHOOL - DRESS/THEMES:
Next week we celebrate Spirit Week at HC. Please note the following themes, daily dress and activities planned to celebrate the Green and Gold in HC style!

Monday, February 1, House Colour Day:
Student dress: Non-uniform clothing in House colours, grade 4 intramurals at short recess, pizza lunch, grade 3 'Happy Feet' dance party at lunch recess and grade 2 outdoor games (led by grade 6) at lunch recess

Tuesday, February 2, Green & Gold Day:
Student dress: Grades JK-4 to wear HC uniform with green & gold accessories, grades 5-6 to wear full green & gold casual dress, AM pillar decorating contest, grade 5 'Happy Feet' dance party at short recess, grade 2 'Happy Feet' dance party at lunch recess, grade 5+6 attend Hewitt Cup Hockey game in the afternoon

Wednesday, February 3, Toronto Sports Fan Day:
Student dress: HC uniform with Toronto athletic team clothing such as Blue Jays/Maple Leafs t-shirts, caps, etc., grade 3 intramurals at short recess, grade 1 'Happy Feet' dance party at lunch recess and grade 4 outdoor games (led by grade 6) at lunch recess

Thursday, February 4, Funky Shirt Day:
Student dress: HC uniform with a funky/funny shirt, grade 2 intramurals at short recess, grade 4 'Happy Feet' dance party at lunch recess and grades 1+3 outdoor games (led by US Prefects) at lunch recess

Friday, February 5, PJ Day:
Student dress: non-uniform dress - students wear pyjamas/robes/slippers (no stuffed animals or toys please!), grade 1 intramurals at short recess, grade 6 'Happy Feet' dance at lunch recess


REPORT CARDS
Please note that the first 'full report card' of the school year will be available to you online at 5:00 pm on Thursday, February 4. You can expect to get more information about that report and the Parent/Teacher Conferences that follow in an email from Ms. Rowe. It's important for you to note that if you have immediate concerns, please contact the teachers directly.


JS GREAT BAKE SALE: CALLING ALL BAKERS & VOLUNTEERS!
Pies, cakes, brownies galore - join us with all of the sweets you adore! The Junior School's Great Bake Sale is on Thursday, February 25 and we would love to have you join our sweet team!

Please email Katy Sisley at ksisley@rogers.com if you:

• can bake nut-free treats at home
• donate packaged baked goods purchased from a nut-free bakery
• volunteer your time on February 25

Students will have an opportunity to purchase a treat during the school day from a specialty table offering only those treats prepared in a nut-free facility.

Parents will have an opportunity to purchase home-made goodies during Parent/Teacher Conferences(between 3:00-8:00 pm). These purchases will be offered in a sealed package and are meant to be consumed off school property.

A big thank you to Erin Carrique, (Ella - 4PR) and Jennifer Newton, (Kate - 5C) for leading this 'sweet' initiative.100% of the proceeds will be directed towards the purchase of a new item for use in the field of technology.


CELEBRATING CHINESE NEW YEAR - Year of the Monkey
The JS will celebrate Chinese New Year on Thursday, February 18 from 9:30-10:00 am. You are cordially invited to join us at a presentation on the history of Chinese New Year, and to hear from members of the Lion Dance Troupe talk about how they will ring in the Year of the Monkey.


GROWING READERS IN THE FOREST OF READING - Update From Erica Rodd, Librarian
We are two months into the Forest of Reading Silver Birch Reading Program and readers in the Junior Division could not be more excited! The goal of the program is to promote a love of reading and highlight fantastic Canadian books. As a book club, we gather once a month to discuss the books and take part in fun reading related activities. The hallways are buzzing as students read through their chosen books, share favourite moments, and have their passports signed by the teacher Book Ambassadors. Although participants only need to read five of the ten nominated books to attend the Festival of Trees trip in May, many have set a personal goal to read all ten by April 21! What happens on that day? Everyone votes for their personal favourite, with the winner revealed at the Festival of Trees.

This program is a wonderful opportunity for a shared family reading experience. Ask your daughter about the books, choose one to read alongside her, or read aloud to each other. You will be sure to have some interesting conversations, perhaps about clones, ghosts, wilderness survival, and exciting cliff-hanger endings! Visit http://bit.ly.1UpiTag for more information.

Primary grades take part in the fun as well with the Blue Spruce Program, which includes ten Canadian picture books that I read aloud to each class. Students in this program will also vote, and it is great fun to compare our favourites with the rest of Ontario once the winner is announced.

I am happy to answer any questions you may have. Please email me at erodd@havergal.on.ca or call 416.483.3843 extension 7544.


SIT AT THE JUNIOR SCHOOL - January Update
The Student Institute Team (SIT) has begun again with fresh new minds ready to engage in pressing issues and to push their inquiry skills even further. As a group, they began with tackling some of the types of questions that all good inquiry requires: what are the deep, essential questions that drive someone to learn more about a topic and address the most important aspects of an issue. The students have taken control of the direction of their research - using their own ideas together with these questioning skills to look further into a personally-important topic. Our Primary SIT group practised inquiry questions and identifying research areas using a 'pro/con' debate/discussion about a hypothetical future where Havergal allows boy to enroll.


JS MOM'S NIGHT OUT (JSMNO) - Save the date: Wednesday, February 17 at 7:00-11:00 pm
The Fourth Annual JS Mom's Night Out will take place at Terroni, 1095 Price Street (at Yonge + Price Street) this year. Back by popular demand are vendor tables to include: Jaxx, Marbles (kids belts), Touch of Gem Jewellery and Merben Int'l Soft Furnishings and Accessories and more! Tickets are $75 and will be available for purchase online shortly.


DON'T MISS OUR FIRST EVER PARENT LEARNING CONFERENCE!
Combining Character Development and Intellectual Development: A Startling Conclusion of the Recent Brain Research
"Every interaction a child has, during the course of a day, influences the adult that child will become" - Dr. JoAnn Deak
On Thursday, February 25 join us as we welcome Dr. JoAnn Deak to lead our first ever day long Parent Learning Conference. The session runs from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm in the JS Learning Hub. Please RSVP at: http://bit.ly/HCPD_February_2016
Cost: $25 (cost include lunch & snacks)


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

Tuesdays:
Brain Busters + SIT/Primary: February 2, 9, 16, 23, March 1 @ 3:45-4:45 pm
Games Galore Club: February 2, 9, 16, 23, March 1, 8 @ 3:45-4:45 pm
Junior Choir: @ 3:30-4:15 pm, for dates please refer to email from Mr. MacLean

Wednesdays:
Ukulele Club + SIT/Junior: February 3, 10, 17, 24, March 2 @ 3:45-4:45 pm
Primary Choir: @ 3:45-4:30 pm, for dates please refer to email from Mr. MacLean

Thursdays:
Crafty Science & Photojournalists Clubs + Squad Karate: February 4, 11, 18, March 3, 10 @ 3:45-4:45 pm
Lego Engineering Club: February 11, 18, March 3, 10 @ 3:45-4:45 pm


NEXT WEEK AT A GLANCE:
Monday, February 1: JS Pizza Lunch @ 11:50 am
Monday, February 1 to Friday, February 5: Spirit Week - see above for details
Tuesday, February 2: Grades 5&6 to Hewitt Cup Hockey @ 12:45-2:45 pm
Wednesday, February 3: Grade 5's leave for overnight trip to Algonquin Park
Wednesday, February 3: JS Grade Rep Meeting @ 8:30-9:30 am
Wednesday, February 3: Grade JK/SK Parent Coffee Morning, offsite - contact your Grade Rep for details
Thursday, February 4: Grade 4 Parent Coffee Morning, offsite - contact your Grade Rep for details
Thursday, February 4: Report cards available for viewing online at 5:00 pm
Friday, February 5: Grade 5's return from Algonquin Park


NEED TO KNOW DATES:
Tuesday, February 9: Grade 2 Parent Coffee Morning, contact your Grade Rep for details
Wednesday, February 10: Parent/Teacher Conferences - online booking opens at 10:00 am
Friday, February 12: PD Day - NO SCHOOL
Monday, February 15: Family Day Holiday - NO SCHOOL
Wednesday, February 17: JS Starbooks Parent Talk in the Learning Hub @ 8:30 am
Wednesday, February 17: Grade 6 lunch @ US Hawkin's Dining Hall @ 11:50 am
Wednesday, February 17: HCPA Meeting @ 1:00 pm
Wednesday, February 17: JS Mom's Night Out @ 7:00-11:00 pm
Thursday, February 18: JS Celebrates Chinese New Year @ 9:30 am
Wednesday, February 24: Grade 1 Parent Coffee Morning, contact your Grade Rep for details
Wednesday, February 24: Parent/Teacher Conferences - online booking closes @ 12:00 pm
Thursday, February 25: Parent Learning Conference (see above for details)
Thursday, February 25: JS Great Bake Sale (see above for details)
Thursday, February 25: Parent/Teacher Conferences @ 3:20-8:00 pm - no afterschool activities

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

Dear Parents,

I would like to address student attendance as it applies to maximizing student learning. Page 130 of the Havergal College Parent Handbook reads as follows:

ATTENDANCE At Havergal we expect engaged participation in the full life of the school. Havergal students are expected to be committed to their academic responsibilities and to their co-curricular commitments. Regular attendance at school is critical for student learning. The school makes accommodations where possible and appropriate for elite athletes and for exceptional family requests. In such cases, parents must advise the school well in advance of the anticipated absences where possible so that the appropriate arrangements for academic support can be put into place.

Your daughter's best learning takes place in the classroom - and we need her here! I look to you for support in this, and your help to ensure that she arrives to school on time and remains for the entirety of the school day.

Warmly,
Leslie Anne


CALLING ALL BAKERS!
And even if you can't bake, please donate nut-free baked goods and/or volunteer at our Grade Rep Bake Sale on Thursday, February 25. We can build community spirit while raising funds and satisfying our sweet tooth at the same time! 100% of the proceeds earned from this effort will directly benefit the Junior School as our goal is to raise enough money to purchase a needed item for use in the field of technology.

There's many ways you can help - please contact Katy Sisley now at, ksisley@rogers.com if you can: 

• donate packaged baked goods purchased from a nut-free bakery
• bake nut-free items at home and/or
• support the effort by giving your time on the day of the sale

All JS students will be invited to purchase a treat during the school day from a specialty table offering only those treats prepared in a nut-free facility.

During Parent/Teacher Conferences parents will have the option of purchasing home-made goodies lovingly made by our HC community members. These home-made purchases will be offered in a sealed package and are meant to be consumed off school property.

Look for more information/details to follow.


PARENT INFORMATION PAGE - TEACHING AND LEARNING
Parent learning is important to us too! Along with Seonaid Davis, our Director of Curriculum and Faculty Development, I invite you to log into the parent portal and on the left hand side, under Library and Learning Resources is a page called Teaching for Understanding. There is a trove of information offered to help answer those questions you might not even know yet!

Please visit: https://community.havergal.on.ca/admin/page/view/1881 to learn about the following:

Assessment FAQ
Assessment at Havergal College - Frequently Asked Questions
Assessment at Havergal College - Information for Parents
Calculating Report Card Grades
Understanding Your Daughter's Report Card
Parent Guides
Doing Mathematics with Your Child: Kindergarten to Grade 6
Helping Your Child Learn to Read

Visit this site often, as it is updated regularly.


DON'T MISS OUR FIRST EVER PARENT LEARNING CONFERENCE!
We're delighted at the response for our "Combining Character Development" parent learning conference so far .... but there's still space for you!

Please join us as we welcome Dr. JoAnn Deak on Thursday, February 25 from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm in the JS Learning Hub. Dr. Deak will share her research on the seven core characteristics that form who we are and how parents and educators can help children develop those characteristics to be successful in life. She will guide us to better understand how to help children develop in positive directions by providing strategies that can help young people make good decisions as they deal with anxiety and stress. Dr. Deak has a long history of working with girls and believes that parents are an important part of helping girls develop into strong, resilient and caring young women. A published author of four books, (The Owner's Manual for Driving Your Adolescent Brain, Your Fantastic Elastic Brain, How Girls Thrive, and Girls Will Be Girls: Raising Confident and Courageous Daughters), Dr. Deak has more than 30 years of experience as an educator and psychologist, helping children develop their potential.

RSVP online now at:  http://bit.ly/HCPD_February_2016


eBOOKS AT THE JS - A message from Erica Rodd, Librarian
Did you know that Havergal students in grades 4, 5, and 6 have access to our ebook collection? Using their computer log in and password, girls in the Junior Division can use Overdrive to access a great collection of novels on any device, tablet or computer.

• For devices with internet access: follow this link to sign in - http://bit.ly/1P5zuje  use the "Collections" drop-down menu to locate the JS collection
• For device-specific set-up, please visit http://help.overdrive.com or contact Erica Rodd by email at erodd@havergal.on.ca or call her at 416.483.3843, extension 7544.

Happy reading!


ATHLETICS - A message from Annie Maki, JS Director of Athletics
Congratulations to our Swim Team members who put in a stellar performance at their first meet in 2016.

Next week you'll see our JS athletes at...

• on Monday you'll see our Squad Volleyball Team playing a friendly game against the Toronto French School
• on  Tuesday our JS Gators Hockey Club will play a final exhibition game (just one week before the big Hewitt Cup game!)
• on Friday our Grade 4 Basketball Squad Team (from the autumn term) put their jerseys back on as they meet with the MacMaster Marauders' Womens' Basketball Team

Good luck to our U11 & U12 Volleyball Teams as they continue their season play with away games next week.


HEWITT CUP HOCKEY GAME - Tuesday, February 2
We are looking forward to another Hewitt Cup Hockey Day both on the ice and in the stands! Our Senior Hockey Team will face off against the Bishop Strachan Bobcats to see who will bring the coveted cup home. We're so proud of our JS Gator Team, who will play during the first intermission. Grade 5 and 6 students will be in the stands to cheer on the green and gold. If you have a daughter in one these grades, please sign and return the Acknowledgement and Assumption of Risks Form that will sent home with your daughter on Monday. Forms are to be returned to the PE Office by Friday, January 29 (attention: Annie Maki). Tickets cost $16 and include: entry, a gold terry cloth headband, a small bag of chips and a bottle of water. They travel by bus, leaving after lunch and will return in time for regular dismissal.


JS MOM'S NIGHT OUT (JSMNO) - Save the date: Wednesday, February 17 at 7:00-11:00 pm
The Fourth Annual JS Mom's Night Out will take place at Terroni, 1095 Price Street (at Yonge + Price Street) this year. Laurie Melbourne and Nicole Polygenis have been hard at work behind the scenes planning a fun-filled evening for moms to get together to relax in a social setting outside of the school. Tickets are $75 and will be available for purchase online in early February. Look for more information coming soon.


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

Tuesdays:
Brain Busters & Games Galore Clubs + SIT/Primary: January 26, February 2, 9, 16, 23, March 1 @ 3:45-4:45 pm
Junior Choir: @ 3:30-4:15 pm, for dates please refer to email from Mr. MacLean

Wednesdays:
Ukulele Club & SIT/Junior: January 27, February 3, 10, 17, 24, March 2 @ 3:45-4:45 pm
Primary Choir: @ 3:45-4:30 pm, for dates please refer to email from Mr. MacLean

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


NEXT WEEK AT A GLANCE:
Tuesday, January 26: Grade 6 Parent Meeting - Transitioning to Upper School Information Evening @ 6:30-7:30 pm in the Legacy Theatre (US)
Tuesday, January 26: Grade SK Parent Social, offsite - contact your Grade Rep for more information
Wednesday, January 27: Grade 6 Lunch at the Upper School @ 11:50 am
Wednesday, January 27: Grade 5 Parent Social, offsite - contact your Grade Rep for more information
Thursday, January 28: Grade 3 Parent Coffee Morning, offsite - contact your Grade Rep for more information


NEED TO KNOW DATES:
Monday, February 1: JS Pizza Lunch @ 11:50 am
Monday, February 1 to Friday, February 5: Spirit Week (more details to follow)
Tuesday, February 2: Hewitt Cup Hockey @ 12:45-2:45 pm (more details to follow)
Wednesday, February 3: Grade 5's leave for overnight trip to Algonquin Park
Wednesday, February 3: JS Grade Rep Meeting @ 8:30-9:30 am
Wednesday, February 3: Grade JK/SK Coffee Morning, offsite - contact your Grade Rep for more information
Thursday, February 4: Grade 4 Coffee Morning, contact your Grade Rep for more information
Thursday, February 4: Report cards available for viewing @ 5:00 pm
Friday, February 5: Grade 5's return from overnight trip to Algonquin Park
Tuesday, February 9: Grade 2 Coffee Morning, contact your Grade Rep for more information
Wednesday, February 10: Parent/Teacher Conferences - online booking opens at 10:00 am
Friday, February 12: PD Day - NO SCHOOL
Monday, February 15: Family Day Holiday - NO SCHOOL
Wednesday, February 17: HCPA Meeting @ 1:00 pm in the EK Library

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

Dear Parents,

 

We're back in full-force! There's much going in the Junior School for students and parents alike. Please read my message below for details and information to get you through the upcoming weeks.

Warmly,

Leslie Anne

 

 

 

REPORT CARDS & ASSESSMENT

This past Wednesday our Grade Reps met in the Learning Hub, and welcomed Seonaid Davis, Director of Curriculum and Faculty Development to talk about report cards and assessment. Mrs. Davis is responsible for all the academic programming in grades JK-12. A great conversation ensued and she was asked to share her presentation with you. I highly encourage you to take the time to view it at the following link:

https://www.havergal.on.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Parent-Assessment-Report-Cards-with-notes.pdf

DON'T MISS OUR FIRST EVER - PARENT LEARNING CONFERENCE!

We're delighted at the response for our "Combining Character Development" parent learning conference so far ... but there's still space for you!

Please join us for "Combining Character Development". We welcome Dr. JoAnn Deak on Thursday, February 25 from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm in the JS Learning Hub. Dr. Deak will share her research on the seven core characteristics that form who we are and how parents and educators can help children develop those characteristics to be successful in life. She will guide us to better understand how to help children develop in positive directions by providing strategies that can help young people make good decisions as they deal with anxiety and stress. Dr. Deak has a long history of working with girls and believes that parents are an important part of helping girls develop into strong, resilient and caring young women. A published author of four books (The Owner's Manual for Driving Your Adolescent Brain, Your Fantastic Elastic Brain, How Girls Thrive and Girls Will Be Girls: Raising Confident and Courageous Daughters), Dr. Deak has more than 30 years of experience as an educator and psychologist, helping children develop their potential.

 

RSVP online now at:   http://bit.ly/HCPD_February_2016

 

 

ATHLETICS - MESSAGE FROM ANNIE MAKI, JS DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS

What a fantastic start of the year for our athletics program. Girls have returned to playing on the courts, in the pool and even on the ice! Good luck to the teams in the many games and meets we have next week.

January has brought the start of three new activities to the Junior School, along with them you will see some new faces coaching:

• We are happy to have Ms. Sarah Szolopiak to the Squad Volleyball Team. Sarah teaches grades JK-3 during the school day so she is enjoying getting to know the older girls at squad team practices. The squad team is led by professional coaches Brooke Lloyd and John Child from Leaside Volleyball Club. Girls are learning movement skills in a fun, familiar non-competitive setting. The squad team had its first session this week and we are thrilled to have twenty-three girls enrolled! Coaches Brooke and Sarah led a dynamic first session with high movement target games that helped the girls get to know each other a little better while hitting the ball and honing skills.
• The JS Gator Hockey Club practiced together for the first time this week with coach Petra Mattes. Ms. Mattes is Havergal's Resource and Planning Coordinator working from the Upper School. She's particularly excited to come to the JS and lace up her skates with HPE teacher, Anna Bartlett and get on the ice with our passionate hockey players.
• We extend a warm welcome to our Squad Karate instructor, Mr. Kevin Daley (father of Kaitlyn, 3Y & Kyra, SK). Our primary girls challenged themselves at their first session trying out new movements, in a positive work-out environment focussing on learning how their bodies move as well as discovering the mind-body connection that karate practices.

Look to read more about athletics in the upcoming issue of Gator Zone. Look for it on the Athletics page on February 12. Go Gators!

JS MOM'S NIGHT OUT - Save the date: Wednesday, February 17 at 7:00-11:00 pm

The Fourth Annual JS Mom's Night Out will take place at Terroni, 1095 Price Street (at Yonge + Price Street) this year. Laurie Melbourne and Nicole Polygenis have been hard at work behind the scenes planning a fun-filled evening for moms to get together to relax in a social setting outside of the school. Tickets are $75 and will be available for purchase online in early February. Look for more information coming soon. 


CO-CURRICULAR CLUBS - Remaining Winter Session Dates

Mondays:

ABT Ballet: January 18, 25, February 1, 8, 22, 29, March 7 @ times advised by Ms. Wade

Chess Lunch Club: January 18, 25, February 1, 8, 22, 29, March 7 @ 11:50-12:50 pm

Squad Volleyball Team: January 18, 25, February 1, 8, 22, 29, March 7 @ 3:45-4:45 pm

 

Tuesdays:

Brain Busters & Games Galore Clubs + SIT/Primary: January 19, 26, February 2, 9, 16, 23, March 1 @ 3:45-4:45 pm

Junior Choir: for dates, please refer to email from Mr. MacLean @ 3:30-4:15 pm

 

Wednesdays:

Ukulele Club & SIT/Junior: January 20, 27, February 3, 10, 17, 24, March 2 @ 3:45-4:45 pm

Primary Choir: for dates, please refer to email from Mr. MacLean @ 3:45-4:30 pm

 

Thursdays:

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

 

 

NEXT WEEK AT A GLANCE: January 18-22

Wednesday, January 20: HCPA Meeting @ 1:00-2:00 pm in the Ellen Knox Library (US)

Wednesday, January 20: Grade 6 Parent Social, offsite - contact your Grade Rep for more information

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

 

NEED TO KNOW DATES:

Tuesday, January 26: Grade 6 Parent Meeting - Transitioning to Upper School Information Evening @ 6:30-7:30 pm in the Legacy Theatre (US)

Tuesday, January 26: Grade SK Parent Social, offsite - contact your Grade Rep for more information

Wednesday, January 27: Grade 6 Lunch at the Upper School @ 11:50 am
Wednesday, January 27: Grade 5 Parent Social, offsite - contact your Grade Rep for more information
Thursday, January 28: Grade 3 Parent Coffee Morning, offsite - contact your Grade Rep for more information

Monday, February 1: JS Pizza Lunch

Monday, February 1 - Friday, February 5: Spirit Week (more details to follow)

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

Dear Parents,

Happy 2016!

I am delighted to welcome you back to school and to wish you a very Happy New Year. I've made it a point to catch up with as many students (+ parents) as possible, to hear about fantastic holiday adventures and to see the halls and classrooms filled with relaxed, smiling faces. It's going to be an exciting winter session!

Warmly,
Leslie Anne


WINTER RECESS - WHEN SHOULD YOU KEEP YOUR CHILD AT HOME?
& DRESSING FOR COLD WEATHER
"Recess may offer one of the most powerful opportunities to strengthen schools, foster healthy child development and boost learning." Mathematica
There's no doubt that winter is here and along with it - cold temperatures as expected! I'd like to address cold weather as it relates to recess. When parents and teachers think back to their own childhood, chances are some of their fondest memories are of outdoor places and activities. Time spent outdoors is an integral part of the school day at Havergal College, as research indicates that regular physical activity and play support students' physical, social and mental health and the improvement of cognitive function. Living in Canada, we can experience extremes in weather, which often leads to the question, "How does Havergal determine whether or not students remain inside during recess?" As always, we use our best judgement to make this decision. Reasons why an indoor recess maybe called, or why outdoor recess may be shortened include: harsh rain, thunderstorms, lightning, hail, extreme winds, and extreme cold, (-15 degrees Celsius without wind child). Our expectation is that all students come to school with appropriate outdoor gear so that they can participate fully in outdoor play. This may include a raincoat, boots, a hat, mittens, snow pants and a warm jacket. If your child is too sick to go outside for recess, please keep her home. If there is another reason why your child cannot go out for recess, but is well enough to attend regular classes, please provide the office with a doctor's note.


PROUD TO PRESENT OUR FIRST PARENT LEARNING CONFERENCE!
Don't miss out! Please join us for "Combining Character Development", our first parent learning conference headed by Dr. JoAnn Deak on Thursday, February 25 from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm in the JS Learning Hub.

Dr. Deak will share her research on the seven core characteristics that form who we are and how parents and educators can help children develop those characteristics to be successful in life. She will guide us to better understand how to help children develop in positive directions by providing strategies that can help young people make good decisions as they deal with anxiety and stress. Dr. Deak has a long history of working with girls and believes that parents are an important part of helping girls develop into strong, resilient and caring young women. A published author of four books (The Owner's Manual for Driving Your Adolescent Brain, Your Fantastic Elastic Brain, How Girls Thrive and Girls Will Be Girls: Raising Confident and Courageous Daughters), Dr. Deak has more than 30 years of experience as an educator and psychologist, helping children develop their potential.

RSVP online now at:   http://bit.ly/HCPD_February_2016 (click on "Browse the program catalogue" and select the parent event "Combining Character Development"). Tickets are $25 and includes lunch and snacks. Invite your friends too!


ATHLETICS - MESSAGE FROM ANNIE MAKI, JS DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS
We have exciting news! We would like to invite more girls in grades 4-6 to join the Volleyball Squad Team. Luckily we were able to secure a second coach and this means we can now accept more girls onto the team, and get them excited about playing volleyball! The squad team coaches area: John Child, professional coach from the Leaside Volleyball Club, and our new primary HPE teacher - Sarah Szolopiak. Please email amaki@havergal.on.ca if your daughter would like to be a part of this team. The squad team practices on Monday afternoons at 3:45-4:45 pm in the JS gym. The first session is this Monday, January 11.


GRADE 4 POETRY STUDY
If you need a distraction from the cold weather or are just interested in seeing how talented our Grade 4 girls are, I highly recommend this poetry album written by our Grade 4 students during their poetry study in November and December. Their charming verses give insight into their thoughts and perspectives, as well as make evident the learning they did over the course of their unit. Click here to view this album: http://on.fb.me/1UuFdiu


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: for dates, please refer to email from 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: for dates, please refer to email from Mr. MacLean @ 3:45-4:30 pm

Thursdays:
Crafty Science, Lego Engineering, Photojournalists'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 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. For assistance, please contact the IT Service Desk at 416.483.3843 extension #6663, or email at servicedesk@havergal.on.ca


NEXT WEEK AT A GLANCE: January 11-15
Wednesday, January 13: JS Grade Rep Meeting @ 8:30-9:30 am


NEED TO KNOW DATES:
Wednesday, January 20: HCPA Meeting @ 1:00-2:00 pm in the 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
Monday, February 1: JS Pizza Lunch
Monday, February 1 - Friday, February 5: Spirit Week (more details to follow)

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

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!

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!