top of page
Search

7-12 Newsletter 01.23.26


January 23, 2026


Dear Hill Family,


Over the Holiday Break I had some time to read David Yeager’s book 10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People: A Groundbreaking Approach to Leading the Next Generation—And Making Your Own Life Easier. It was a great read, and I would recommend it to everyone.


Dr. Yeager spends much of the book breaking down the “mentor mindset” and how it can be effectively used to support young people’s healthy development. He describes the mentor mindset as having high expectations paired with high support. This is in contrast to an enforcer mindset (high expectations, low support) and a protector mindset (low expectations, high support).


The idea behind the mentor mindset resonated with me because it closely reflects what we, as a staff at The Hill, are always working toward with our student-athletes. We have high expectations for everyone and we hold our student-athletes accountable. This can mean providing criticism, having them run stairs for leaving the gym messy, giving a low mark on an assignment that did not meet standards, or reduced playing time.


All of these consequences come from a place of care. Our goal is not to simply point out what’s wrong, but to provide the support needed for student-athletes to achieve great things. The mentor mindset is about pairing high expectations with teaching, feedback, encouragement, and belief. When a student-athlete runs stairs, we help them understand why standards matter. When a mark is lower than hoped for, we help them learn how (and give them opportunities) to improve it. When playing time is reduced, we talk through decisions, responsibility, and growth.


Our goal is not compliance in the moment, but confidence and ownership over time. At The Hill, we don’t lower expectations to make things easier; we raise support so our student-athletes can rise to them.


At the start of every school year in the gym, we talk about embracing expectations and the quote, “High achievements happen in the framework of high expectations.” Going forward, we’ll be adding: “…with high support.”


Congrats on a great first semester, and we’re looking forward to the second half of the year!


Drazen Glisic

Director of Athlete Performance


In this week's Newsletter:

Pink Shirt Day Orders - closes Wednesday

Pink Shirt Day is an annual anti-bullying campaign, celebrated in 2026 on February 25th, where people wear pink shirts to show solidarity against bullying, promoting kindness, inclusion, and acceptance in schools, online, and communities. 


After tasking junior school students with the job of designing this year's pink shirt day shirt at The Hill, pieces of several designs were combined into the final product. The 2026 Pink Shirt Day shirt can be pre-ordered through The Hill online store from now until Wednesday January 28. Act now, as only a small amount of shirts will be made available and once ordered, the design will be retired.


Thank you all for your support on this initiative



Coach T's Mindset Challenge

Mindset Challenge: "How you carry yourself is 100% in your control". Consider how you want to train, focus, respond to adversity in Semester Two. Then, commit to it. 

 

Examples:

  • "I want to be creative and think outside the box."

  • "I want to bust my butt and put in full effort to all my work".

  • "I want to have fun and enjoy every moment."

  • "I want to stay positive, even when things aren't going my way."

The Hill Volleyball

Learn more about The Hill Volleyball program, coming to The Hill in 2026-27!


Parents of those interested (program will focus on girls born 2008-2012) are invited to join online to hear from The Hill's Director Sports Science & Athlete Performance, Drazen Glisic and Volleyball Director Dani Brisebois about the return of The Hill Volleyball program to be offered in the 2026-27 school year.


This session will;

  • Introduce Hill Alumna and Director of Volleyball, Dani Brisebois

  • Outline the volleyball program


A TEAMS link to the session will be sent to all those who sign up.



Read The Hill Volleyball Announcement here:

The Hill Summer Camps



Although the weather doesn't think so, summer is right around the corner. We're thrilled to host a selection of camps again this summer at The Hill. As a bonus, Hill student-athletes can use the code: COACHMATT to save 10% on their registration. Stay tuned as we look to announce more even more camps!


The Nest

At The Nest, we've been delighted by the excitement, conversations, decision-making, and laughter that continue to fill our space. It’s been a joy to interact with the students each day as they seek to fuel their growing bodies and find comfort in a place they can call their hub.


Here are a few updates:

  • We extend our thanks to those who have embraced our pre-loaded cards. This cashless system ensures that everything runs smoothly and effortlessly. Please note, we will inform you when your student-athlete's card is running low, making it easy to reload.

  • We value your creativity and suggestions as we strive to introduce fresh products and ideas each week. Please feel welcome to share your thoughts with us at lunch@thehillacademy.com, as your voice is an integral part of The Nest's offerings.

  • HOURS OF OPERATION: we are open during lunch from 11-1 pm. After school, there is a 15-20 minute window post-dismissal for students with long commutes to grab and go. Please note that end-of-day hours may occasionally vary due to staffing, but we always aim to serve you well.


Your continued support means the world to us!



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.

 

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. 

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. 


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! 


Daily Lunch

Monday: Cheese Burger with French Fries & Grilled Corn

Tuesday: Spaghetti and Meatballs with Ceaser Salad 

Wednesday: Classic Ham and Swiss Quiche Sweet Potato Waffle Fries Steamed Broccoli

Thursday: Philly CheeseSteak Sandwhich Cheese Fries Charred Zucchini

Friday: Blackened chicken with red beans, long-grain rice, and sautéed 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.com 


Residence Meal Plan (Breakfast / Dinner)

Monday: Continental Breakfast / Beef Stir Fry With Dumplings

Tuesday: Southwest Breakfast Burritos / Mediterranean Fallafel Bowl

Wednesday: Continental Breakfast / Fried Chicken sandwich with Ceaser Salad & French Fries

Thursday: Buttermilk Pancakes with Peameal Bacon / Mexican Burrito Bowl

Friday: Continental Breakfast / Chicken Thai Green Curry served with Rice


Saturday: Continental Breakfast / Breakfast a la carte / Duck Breast with Blueberry& Port Sauce Fried Brussels Sprouts & Rice Pilaf

Sunday: Continental Breakfast / Breakfast a la carte / Italian Lasagna with Spinach & Ricotta served with Italian House Salad


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: Multi-Sport

Tuesday: Hockey

Wednesday: Multi-Sport

Thursday: Multi-Sport

Friday: Multi-Sport


Hockey (7-8)

Monday: Hockey

Tuesday: Hockey

Wednesday: Multi-Sport

Thursday: Hockey

Friday: Multi-Sport


Hybrid Lacrosse Hockey (7-8)

Monday: Hockey

Tuesday: Hockey

Wednesday: Lacrosse

Thursday: Hockey

Friday: Lacrosse


Middle School Boys Lacrosse (7-8)

Monday: Multi-Sport

Tuesday: Hockey

Wednesday: Lacrosse

Thursday: Multi-Sport

Friday: Lacrosse


Middle School Girls Lacrosse (7-8)

Monday: Multi-Sport

Tuesday: Hockey

Wednesday: Lacrosse

Thursday: Multi-Sport

Friday: Lacrosse

View a comprehensive calendar of events by visiting www.thehillacademy.com/calendar


  • Friday, January 23 - Sunday, January 25 - U18 Prep Hockey @ PPHL Frozen Frenzy - Rockland, MA

  • Wednesday, January 28 - Sunday, February 1 - U15AAA and U16AAA @ Florida Exposure Cup - Ft. Lauderdale, FL

  • Wednesday, February 4 - Grade 7-8 Ski Trip - Hockley Valley Resort

  • Wednesday, February 4 - U18 Prep Hockey @ Everest - Vaughan, ON

  • Thursday, February 5 - The Hill Volleyball Lunch and Learn (Virtual)

  • Friday, February 6 - U18 Prep Hockey @ Appleby College - Oakville, ON

  • Wednesday, February 11 - Grade 4-6 Ski trip - Hockley Valley Resort

  • 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! 

 

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. 

 

Airbnb Link:

 

Cottages In Canada Link: 

 

Direct Contact:

Paige Danforth 

519-216-6659

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 was 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.

 

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.

School Hours/Information


Middle School (Grade 7/8) & High School: 8:10 - 3:50


Middle School (Grades 7/8) supervision begins at 8:00 a.m. in your child’s homeroom portable. Students who are dropped off between 7:45 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. may wait in the caf.


If you need to drop off your student-athlete before 7:45 a.m., please ensure they are registered in our Before Care program.

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.




bottom of page