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7-12 Newsletter 02.06.26


February 6, 2026


Hello Hill Community,


It's Olympic Time. It's the best time. There's just something about the Olympics. There's a special kind of excitement in the air. The Olympics have a way of bringing people together and reminding us why sport matters. They showcase years of dedication, sacrifice, and belief, all coming together on the biggest stage in the world. To debase a saying from one of my favourite movies Moneyball: how can you not be romantic about... the Olympics?


This year, that feeling is especially meaningful for our Hill community as we celebrate five alumni competing at the Olympics. Laura Stacey, Erin Ambrose, Thomas Harley, and Mitch Marner are representing Canada in hockey, while Kristin Della Rovere is proudly competing for Italy. Seeing former students reach this level is something we, as a school, should be incredibly proud of, and it serves as a powerful reminder of where hard work and commitment can lead.


The Olympics are about much more than wins, losses, medals and podiums. They are about atmosphere and emotion, about stories that capture attention and inspire conversation. There is something unique about the way the Games bring families, communities, and even entire countries together around moments that feel bigger than sport itself.


I had the opportunity to experience that atmosphere firsthand while working at the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Games, and it is something I will never forget. What stood out to me most was the spirit of the city. People were genuinely happy, supportive, and united in a shared effort to make the experience special for everyone. It truly felt like everyone was working together toward something positive. I find this same feeling with the staff here at The Hill, with how much they put into the student-athlete experience for the kids.


As you watch the Games unfold, I encourage you to take in some of these moments with your children. Watch a game together, cheer for our alumni, and talk about the journeys that led them there. These shared experiences can spark meaningful conversations and create memories that last far beyond the Olympics themselves.


Kevin Hayashi

Director of Marketing


In this week's Newsletter:

Grad Photo Day

A reminder that Grad Photo Day for Grades 8 and 12 will be held on Wednesday, February 18. Please ensure student-athletes are dressed in appropriate attire for under their grad robe (white collared shirt).


Power School

Please note that high school report cards have been sent home and the Power School Student and Parent Portal has been enabled. Please contact christy.flynn@thehillacademy.com if you have any issues accessing your student’s account.


New Stop Sign

There has been a new stop sign installed on the roundabout at the crosswalk leading to the entrance of the main building. Please abide by all signs on campus to help us keep safety at the forefront of our community.


Cafeteria Plates and Bowls

Please be advised that plates and bowls from the cafeteria will no longer be allowed outside of cafeteria during lunch periods.


The Hill Volleyball

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


We will be hosting an external Lunch and Learn event in the coming weeks. If you know an interested family, stay tuned for updates.


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.



Power School

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.


Semester Two Culminating Tasks and Exams

Absences (excused or unexcused) will result in a grade of a zero for culminating tasks and/or exams. If an absence is caused by injury or illness, a doctor’s note which identifies the date and cause of the absence is required on the day of the scheduled assessment.


Vacation, appointments and games/tournaments are not considered valid reasons for absences. If there is a valid reason for a student needing to miss or reschedule an exam, the student must submit an Exam/Culminating Task Consideration Request. The due date for these requests is February 20, 2026.


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: Grilled European Sausage Grilled Cheese Tomato Soup

Tuesday: Homemade Meat Sauce with Egg Noodle & Green Beans

Wednesday: Roasted Chicken Grilled Corn Waffle Fries

Thursday: Veal Parm served with Penne Tomato and Roasted Carrots

Friday: Chili with Garlic Bread


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 / Veal Parmesan Roasted Green Beans Penne Tomato Mixed Green Salad

Tuesday: Continental Breakfast / Baked Salmon Roasted Zucchini Curried Rice

Wednesday: Continental Breakfast / Pork Ribs Roasted Potato Balls Steamed Broccoli Corn Bread

Thursday: Continental Breakfast / Lamb Curry served with Peas & Rice

Friday: Continental Breakfast / Marry Me Chicken served with Broccoli & Rice


Saturday: Continental Breakfast / Breakfast a la carte / Duck Breast Creamy Mushroom Pasta Arugala Salad Asaparagus

Sunday: Continental Breakfast / Breakfast a la carte / Bangers & Mash with Broccolini Roasted Beet salad with Feta


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: Orienteering

Tuesday: Hockey

Wednesday: Racquet Sports

Thursday: Yoga and Games

Friday: Touch Rugby


Hockey (7-8)

Monday: Hockey

Tuesday: Hockey

Wednesday: Racquet Sports

Thursday: Hockey

Friday: Touch Rugby


Hybrid Lacrosse Hockey (7-8)

Monday: Hockey

Tuesday: Hockey

Wednesday: Racquet Sports

Thursday: Hockey

Friday: Touch Rugby


Middle School Boys Lacrosse (7-8)

Monday: Orienteering

Tuesday: Hockey

Wednesday: Lacrosse

Thursday: Yoga and Games

Friday: Lacrosse


Middle School Girls Lacrosse (7-8)

Monday: Lacrosse

Tuesday: Hockey

Wednesday: Lacrosse

Thursday: Yoga and Games

Friday: Lacrosse

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


  • 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!


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.




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