7-12 Newsletter 01.09.26
- kevinhayashi
- 4 hours ago
- 14 min read
January 9, 2026
Dear Hill Family,
As we begin a new calendar year at The Hill Academy, I want to welcome everyone back and hope you're having a healthy and successful start to 2026. A new year is a natural time to pause, reflect, and think about what’s ahead. It gives us an opportunity to recognize what we’ve already accomplished and set our focus on the goals we want to pursue in the months to come.
Winter break offers something that’s often hard to find during the school year: time. Time to reset routines, recharge mentally and physically, and step away from the day-to-day demands. That pause is especially valuable as we look at upcoming exams and the challenges of the second semester with a clearer head and renewed energy.
Over the break, I was fortunate to spend meaningful time with my family and close friends. Whether it was sitting around the table, catching up, or simply enjoying each other’s company, those moments were a reminder of how important those relationships are. Stepping away from the usual schedule helped me return feeling refreshed and ready for what lies ahead.
The second semester is a chance to build on the work that’s already been done this year. Exams require preparation, discipline, and consistency—qualities that also carry over directly to success in athletics, whether you’re competing on a field, a court, in a rink or anywhere else. This is a good time to reset goals, recommit to daily habits, and support one another through what can be a busy and demanding stretch.
As we move forward, I encourage families to take a few minutes together to set one or two clear goals for the months ahead. Whether it’s an academic objective, a personal habit, or an athletic focus, writing it down and checking in on it together can make a real difference. I’m excited about what the rest of the year holds for our Hill family, and I’m confident that by working together with intention and commitment, we can make the second half of the year our strongest yet.
Ryan Toomey
Director of Hockey
In this week's Newsletter:
Exam Information
Earlier this week, an email with exam information was sent out. Please refer to all FAQs, including the cell phone policy within that email and find the exam schedule here.
We wish Students the best of luck with their exams this semester!
The Nest: A New Hub for Our Student-Athletes
We are proud and excited to announce the grand opening of THE NEST, a dynamic new space dedicated to enhancing the lives of our athletes and the broader school community. For two weeks leading up to the Winter break, we celebrated the launch of this special nook, designed to fuel, support, and inspire our student-athletes.
THE NEST serves as a vibrant hub where students can gather, refuel, and find balance in their busy school days. We are proud to offer products that are sourced locally and baked fresh daily. Some of our delicious offerings include our beloved chocolate chip cookies, muffins, vitamin water, sparkling water, protein-based chocolate milks, fruit cups, yogurt parfaits, and veggies with hummus. We are also eager to hear your ideas for new products, so please send any or all of your requests to lunch@thehillacademy.com. Your input is invaluable, and we appreciate your voice and support!
Before the break, we soft-launched some of our products and tested the best hours to serve our athletes. THE NEST is open from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, covering lunch hours for all grades, Monday through Friday. Additionally, it will aim to be open at the end of the day as we introduce new on-the-go items that can easily be picked up on the way home or to evening sports and activities.
We love seeing our most loyal customers daily, who always add a smile to the process! Some canteen cards are running low; we appreciate your continued support. In addition to our food offerings, school merchandise is available, including hats, blankets, and a cross-section of apparel. In the weeks to come, we are working on adding smoothies and essentials like hockey tape and lacrosse stringing kits. Stay tuned as we grow, refine, and listen to your ideas!
We invite all students to visit and make the most of what THE NEST has to offer. It's a place where athletes can find the energy and environment needed to strive for greatness, both on the field and in the classroom.
A special thank you to everyone who contributed to making THE NEST a reality, and to our community for your ongoing support. Together, we're fostering a culture of health, balance, and excellence, one step at a time. Don’t forget to top up your cards…..we are a cashless system!
Power School Disabled until Second Semester
Please note that the Power School Student and Parent Portal will be disabled for the end of the semester. The portal will reopen again once report cards have been issued.
Volunteers for Alton Fire and Ice Festival
Please note, this is an indoor/outdoor festival. All volunteers will need to dress appropriately for the weather conditions. Students will receive volunteer hours to support the graduation requirement.
Volunteers will be needed from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM Saturday, January 31, 2026 and 9:00 AM to 6:00 pm Sunday, February 1, 2026.
There will be a Volunteer Orientation Meeting on Thursday, January 29, 2026 at 5:00 PM.
To apply visit : https://form.jotform.com/253304818379060
 What's Cooking with The Hill Eats?
As we approach the end of the first semester, we want to take a moment to celebrate our food program and reflect on the delicious and diverse meals prepared by our esteemed culinary team. Throughout the semester, students have enjoyed a wide offering of meals that not only nourish but also excite the palate.
We are pleased to welcome some new and talented members to our culinary family this year. Their dedication and passion have already made a positive impact on our meal program, and we are grateful for the creativity and inspiration they bring to our kitchen. A warm welcome to Fatima and Nazari.
With the winter months upon us, we all seek comfort in hearty and warming options like soups. It’s essential to remember that adding color to our plates is vital during these darker days. Chef Michael consistently ensures that every meal includes a variety of colorful vegetables and fresh options from the salad bar, served daily. This variety not only enhances the visual appeal of our meals but also provides essential nutrients to keep our students healthy and energized.
We encourage everyone to take advantage of the vibrant meals available as we continue through the season. Thank you for your support and engagement in our food program, and we look forward to sharing more exciting culinary experiences as the year progresses. For those considering signing up for the second semester, please complete this form.
Coach Riley Thompson's Mindset Challenge
Each week Coach Riley Thompson works with Student-Athletes on the psychology side of sports. This week's mindset challenge was to choose one action that is 100% in your control during exam week. Commit to focusing on this action instead of the outcome.
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Examples of things 100% in my control:
My effort on each question
Reading each question carefullyÂ
How much time I spend studying
How I respond after mistakes
Talking positively to myself
My breathing during exams
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TPC Toronto Special Offer
Our partners at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley would like to extend our relationship by offering the following discounts to the Hill Family:
20% off indoor simulators and lessons
20% off rooms
20% off dining (food only)
To take advantage of these discounts, simply follow the link, using the password: hillacademy to access.
Inclement Weather Protocol
We want to ensure everyone is kept up to date with the inclement weather protocol and procedures.
Depending on the weather and the conditions, one of two decisions will be made:
1. School closure- remote learning
All buses cancelled; students are to perform their schoolwork remotely. This includes before and after care.Â
2. School Bus Cancellation
Either specific buses or all buses are canceled, and the school remains open for staff and students that can safely travel. Before and After care will still be operating.Â
We will do our best to communicate our decision by 6am, utilizing email and social media channels. Decisions will be made considering the safety of students and staff on both the way to and from campus.
The Hill Eats
Discover this week's menu, bon appétit!Â
Daily Lunch
Monday: Turkey Meatloaf Creamed Corn Yam Casserole
Tuesday: Oven-Baked Chicken Legs Roasted Carrots, Onions and Peppers Roasted Potatoes
Wednesday: Veal Parm Sauteed Peas & Cherry Tomato Pesto Spaghetti
Thursday: Sheperds Pie
Friday: Grain Bowl: Quinoa & Grilled Chicken Roasted Vegetable Blend ( Zucchini, Peppers and Onions)
If your day student would like to be on the lunch plan, please register now!
Please be advised any feedback or special requests can be sent to lunch@thehillacademy.comÂ
Residence Meal Plan (Breakfast / Dinner)
Monday: Continental Breakfast / Butter Chicken Served with Cauliflower, Rice and Fresh Na’an
Tuesday: Breakfast Waffles / European Style Hot Dogs served with Grilled Corn & Classic Macaroni SaladÂ
Wednesday: Continental Breakfast / Dinner Roast Cheesy Mash Potatoes Brussel Sprouts Jus
Thursday: Avocado Breakfast / Fish n’ Chips served with Zucchini Fries & Corn on the Cob
Friday:Â Continental Breakfast / Beef and Broccoli Noodles Wontons Glazed Shitake Mushrooms
Saturday: Continental Breakfast / Breakfast a la carte / Roasted Chicken Leg served with a loaded Baked Potato & Santa Fe Salad
Sunday: Continental Breakfast / Breakfast a la carte / Veal Parmesan Broccolini & Mushrooms Caesar Salad Romesco Potatoes
Middle School Sports Schedule
For Grade 9-12+PG, check your individual team's TeamSnap for the most up to date schedule.
Foundations of Sport (7-8)
Monday: Hockey
Tuesday: Football
Wednesday: Orienteering
Thursday: Sledding
Friday: Snow Shoeing
Hockey (7-8)
Monday: Hockey
Tuesday: Hockey
Wednesday: Orienteering
Thursday: Hockey
Friday: Snow Shoeing
Hybrid Lacrosse Hockey (7-8)
Monday: Hockey
Tuesday: Hockey
Wednesday: Lacrosse
Thursday: Hockey
Friday: Lacrosse
Middle School Boys Lacrosse (7-8)
Monday: Hockey
Tuesday: Football
Wednesday: Lacrosse
Thursday: Sledding
Friday: Lacrosse
Middle School Girls Lacrosse (7-8)
Monday: Lacrosse
Tuesday: Football
Wednesday: Lacrosse
Thursday: Sledding
Friday: Lacrosse
View a comprehensive calendar of events by visiting www.thehillacademy.com/calendar
Thursday, January 8 - Sunday, January 12 - U15AAA at Silver Stick - Port Huron, MI
Friday, January 9 - U18 Prep Hockey @ OHO - 2PM - Whitby, ON
Friday, January 9 - Sunday, January 12 - U16AAA at NEPACK Showcase - Rochester, NY
Thursday, January 15 - First Day of Exams
Friday, January 16 - Sunday, January 18 - U16AAA at Oakville Winter Classic, Oakville, ON
Tuesday, January 20 - Final Day of Exams
Wednesday, January 21 - PD Day
Thursday, January 22 - First Day of Second Semester
Friday, January 23 - Sunday, January 25 - U18 Prep Hockey @ PPHL Frozen Frenzy - Rockland, MA
Tuesday, January 27 - Grades 4-8 Ski Day at Hockley Valley
Monday, February 16 - Family Day (school closed)
Blueprint Nutrition
This school year, the Hill Academy has partnered with Blueprint Nutrition to provide sport nutrition education and support. Blueprint is co-owned by Registered Dietitians, Cara Kasdorf and Rosanne Robinson, and along with their team of Sport Dietitians, they work with athletes across Canada. Their team of Registered Dietitians have worked with all levels and ages of athletes - from local and rep leagues to Olympic athletes, NHL and OHL players, and professional triathletes and endurance athletes. They have expertise in working with both student-athletes and adult athletes to fuel for performance, growth and development, and long-term health. They have expertise to support your athlete, whether the goal is to hit a personal best, navigate busy tournament weekends, or just eat enough to keep up with their sport and academics.
Cara and Rosanne will be providing 4 sport nutrition specific sessions to grades 4-12 throughout the school year. If you would like to seek out additional and more individualized support, Blueprint offers different options to work together.
Two of their most popular packages for student-athletes include:
Eat to Compete Program – $710 for 4 sessions
A high-impact coaching package designed to build strong fuelling habits across training, game day, recovery, and more. Ideal for athletes who want to level up their performance with a comprehensive strategy.
Performance Meal Planning Strategy Session – $295 for a 90-minute session
A focused, one-time consult to help you map out exactly what, when, and how much your athlete should be eating - with a personalized meal plan and timeline tailored to their sport, schedule, and needs.
*Note: all sessions are held virtually via video sessions
*They offer additional packages and sessions based on the athlete’s individual needs
To get started, schedule a free 20-minute clarity call by emailing: sport@blueprintnutrition.ca or booking directly at: www.blueprintnutrition.ca. They have also put together an online Sport Nutrition resource for students. Information about how to access the resource library can be found in their Physical Education and Health Google Classroom.
Airbnb Offer
Looking for a great place to stay right in town while visiting your kids at The Hill Academy? Just 5 minutes from the school right on the main street of Alton village is a cozy 3 bedroom 2 bathroom house that can comfortably sleep 8 people. The perfect place to unwind and hang with your kids and friends for a few nights. The house also offers a summer pool and all year round hot tub as well as backs directly onto the shallow waters of the credit river making for the perfect tranquil setting. Pets are also welcome!Â
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Below you can find the airbnb listing to view all 120+ 5 star reviews. If you'd like to book a stay at the house please reach out through the Cottages In Canada link below to save on some fees airbnb would normally charge, or better yet... reach directly out to the host at her personal email or cell phone number. Don't forget to let her know you're staying at the house because you're visiting someone at The Hill. She'd be happy to provide a discounted rate of 10% off your total stay.Â
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Airbnb Link:
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Cottages In Canada Link:Â
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Direct Contact:
Paige DanforthÂ
519-216-6659
OSU Study Project
One of the staff athletic therapists, Josh Belletti, is looking for participants for his master’s thesis project through The Ohio State University. The purpose of this study is to investigate how baseline mTBI/concussion testing scores vary from in person administration of tests to virtual or Telehealth administration of tests. The testing battery for both conditions includes the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT6) in its entirety as well as the Vestibular Ocular-Motor Screening (VOMS). These tests are the same tests done for the baseline concussion testing with all Hill Academy teams. There will also be including depression, sleep and anxiety screens. Testing for the two conditions will occur throughout the school year separated by one week between each test session.
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Participation in the study is completely voluntary and can be withdrawn at any point throughout the duration of the study. Interested participants will be required to complete informed consent and parental assent for those under the age of 18. We will be looking to pull study participants from the competitive programs in the senior school.
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For those who are interested can follow the link provided for the web interest form for the study. Once completed you and your child will be contacted.
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If there are any further questions, concerns or if you are interested in participating in the study feel free to reach out to him (Joshua.Belletti@osumc.edu).
Uniforms
Please ensure your student-athlete is wearing the appropriate uniform for their division. Please note there are NO TIGHTS or BIKE SHORTS PERMITTED. If you have questions regarding apparel please refer to the Gr. 4-12 uniform guide. Any questions, concerns or questions apparel@thehillacademy.com.
Labeling Items
With so many activities and practices happening daily, it's easy for items to get misplaced. To help keep track of uniforms, equipment, and personal items, we kindly ask that all student-athletes have their belongings clearly labeled with their name. This simple step ensures that lost items can be quickly returned and helps maintain organization throughout the day. Thank you for helping us keep our athletes focused and prepared!
Ontario University Applications Centre
January 15th 2026 is the deadline for students to complete their OUAC applications for the 26/27 year. Please see Mrs. Flynn if you have any questions or concerns about your university applications Please refer to the OUAC website with any questions.
Community Involvement Hours
To graduate in Ontario, students need to demonstrate at least 40 hours of community involvement. Forms for tracking these hours can be found on our website.
If you are looking for ways to volunteer this year, try the following local resources:
Interested in Contacting a Tutor?
We have partnered with Jessica’s Tailored Tutoring to provide tutoring going forward. Parents can contact her directly at 705-717-4213.
Student-Dedicated Resource
This year, Ms. Walko will be working as student support. She will be working with students from Kindergarten through Post-Grad to help them achieve academic success. If you, as a student, or your child as a parent, require classroom support, accommodations, or have an IEP in place, please reach out to Ms. Walko directly so we can ensure supports are in place as quickly as possible.
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Students are also welcome to stop by the Resource Room (Room 104) to check in or ask questions. Please contact Ms. Walko with any questions at emily.walko@thehillacademy.com.
Safety and Security
We want to remind everyone about the safety and security considerations of arriving and leaving the campus.
For all:
Please follow the posted speed limits
Please come to a complete stop at all stop signs (there are new ones on campus)
Please note and follow the one-way driveway and the stop signs
Please follow the directions of the staff who are supervising pick-up and drop-off times.
Parking lots are to be used for anyone waiting to pick up students.
Fire routes are allocated to help Fire and Emergency Services access buildings quickly in the event of an emergency. Blocking these routes, even to drop off or pick up students, can be dangerous for everyone.
Accessible parking spaces are for the exclusive use for individuals holding valid accessible parking permits. Please do not use or block any accessible spaces without a valid permit.
Annual School Calendar 2025-26
Annual school calendars are available on the website:
Attendance Protocol K-PG
ALL STUDENTS:
If your child is absent from school, please remember to email attendance@thehillacademy.com to report the absence.
If your student athlete is going to miss their Phys. Ed or sport period for any reason, please remember to email DGlisic@thehillacademy.com.
Late Arrivals
If your child arrives late to school, please park in the designated parking areas and walk them into the main office to receive a late slip (K-8). The students will need to provide their educator with the slip upon arrival to class. High School students must sign-in at the main office.
No Sign-Out Privileges
Students do not of have sign-out privileges at The Hill Academy, regardless of age. If a student is to leave campus during the school day, attendance@thehillacademy.com must receive an email from parents/guardians indicating that the student is permitted to leave campus, with whom, at what time and for what reason. Student drivers are not permitted to have passengers unless the families have provided written consent in advance.
Allergy Aware School
Hill Families, please be aware that we have several anaphylactic allergies within our school community. These include but are not limited to peanuts, tree nuts, and shellfish. We do not exclude nuts, tree nuts or other big ten foods packed in lunches and for snacks but ask for awareness of these allergies. We ask that parents please help educate their students on what it means to be allergy aware.
Ways that we can all keep our school safe are:
Be aware of specific allergies within your class
Please avoid sending in these foods as part of classroom celebrations to minimize exposure to those with allergies.
Placing food on paper towel or napkin and not directly on the table
Wiping down your area after eating
If using the microwave, wiping down any splatter
Hand washing before and after eating
Being mindful of those with allergies and not eating near them if consuming food that contains an allergen
All nuts are not permitted on any of the buses.
Please see https://foodallergycanada.ca/ for additional resources to help educate on food allergies. We thank you for your cooperation in keeping our students with allergies safe.
