7-12 Newsletter 02.20.26

February 20, 2026

Hello Hill Families,

I have the privilege of interacting with K-PG students. I see them learning, problem-solving, competing, and supporting one another; whether it’s at recess, in the classroom, during assessments, or playing the sports they love.

There are transferable and emotional skills that can be applied to all of these moments, at any age. Two that stand out, especially this time of year, are resilience and perseverance. 

During a Hill session with our grade 8 students this week, we explored what resilience is and how it appears in our everyday lives. Resilience is something that we begin to develop at a very early age. As we learn to walk, we learn how to fall and get back up. It is an essential skill that allows us to grow, push forward, and reach the next level, something our student-athletes strive for.

We talked through how resilience develops, and the areas we use it. It is a skill needed in the classroom; when you start a new subject that is outside of your comfort zone, you are in a new unit in class that is challenging you more than it has before, you get a test back and don’t see the mark that you had hoped for. In sports; when you don’t make the team or lineup you wanted, or facing an injury that changes how you envisioned your season. 

We reflected on a quote by Steve Maraboli that says “life doesn’t get easier or more forgiving, we get stronger and more resilient.” While some things do come easier, or go the way you want, at other moments it feels completely out of control and like nothing goes your way. It’s in those moments where we can see growth. When we push ourselves to stick with something we’re not good at right away, or when you feel like you need to work harder than everyone just to understand something or achieve something. 

Overall, it's our ability to persevere and shift our mindset. Look at things as opportunities for growth, or a natural part of life. 

Our student athletes face challenges in all aspects of their lives, just like we all do. Choosing to look ahead, find the lesson, or simply build coping skills during difficult moments is what helps set them apart.

So, when things get tough, challenge yourself to stick with it, take it in stride and recognize how these moments help us, and our brains, grow stronger.

Looking forward to the weeks ahead,

Emily Walko

Director of Student Success/ Primary French

emily.walko@thehillacademy.com

In this week's Newsletter:

• Pink Shirt Day - Wed Feb 25

• Trees Being Removed On Campus

• Semester Two Culminating Tasks and Exam Schedule

• Power School

• New Stop Sign

• Cafeteria Plates and Bowls

• The Hill Volleyball

• The Hill Summer Camps

• The Nest

• TPC Toronto Special Offer

• Inclement Weather Protocol

• The Hill Eats

• Middle School Sports Schedule

• Upcoming Events

• Blueprint Nutrition

• Airbnb Offer

• Uniforms

• Labeling Items

• Community Involvement Hours

• Interested in Contacting a Tutor

• Student-Dedicated Resource

• Safety and Security

• School Hours/Information

• Annual Calendars

• Attendance Protocol

• Allergy Aware School

Pink Shirt Day - Wed Feb 25

Pink Shirt Day will be recognized on Wednesday February 25. Student-athletes are encouraged to wear pink shirts with appropriate uniform bottoms.

Pink Shirt Day is a global anti-bullying movement where people wear pink to symbolize taking a stand against bullying. This year's theme is a sprinkle of kindness.

Trees Being Removed on Campus

The Hill Community may have noticed trees coming down between the main building and the roadway. An Arborist Report had determined that the trees in that area were dying or dead and should be removed before becoming a safety hazard. We applied for and were provided a permit to remove them. We plan to repurpose the space into additional features that student-athletes and The Hill community will continue to enjoy on campus for many years to come.

Semester Two Culminating Tasks and Exam Schedule

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 to the vice principal. The due date for these requests was February 20, 2026.

Exam Schedule

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! If you know of a Volleyball Family outside of our The Hill Community that would like to learn more information, we encourage them to sign up for a Lunch and Learn event that we will be hosting virtually on Wednesday February 25 at 12pm. They can RSVP here to receive a link.

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!

• June 29 - July 3 - Multi-Sport Camp

• July 6 - July 10 - Golf/Multi-Sport Camp

• July 13 - July 17 - Lacrosse Camp (boys and girls)

• July 20 - July 24 - Multi-Sport Camp

• July 27 - July 31 - Multi-Sport Camp

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.

https://www.thehillacademy.com/product-page/25-canteen-cash-card LINK FOR $25

https://www.thehillacademy.com/product-page/55-canteen-cash-card LINK FOR $55

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.

TPC Toronto at Osprey requirement for proof of enrolment is a student card. To request your student card, please see Mrs. Bush.

Hill Academy Partner Benefits - TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley

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: Chicken Tenders Mac N Chz Honey Glazed Carrots

Tuesday: Chef's Special

Wednesday: Pinwheel Cold Cut Sandwich Carrot and Celery Sticks

Thursday: Spaghetti and Meatballs with Garlic Bread

Friday: Chef's Special

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 N Broccoli Noodles Wontons Glazed Shitakes

Tuesday: Continental Breakfast / Chicken Parm Tomato Penne Ceaser Salad Roasted Beets

Wednesday: Continental Breakfast / Dinner Roast Cheesy Mash Potatoes Brussel Sprouts Jus

Thursday: Continental Breakfast / Butter Chicken Served with Cauliflower, Rice and Fresh Na’an

Friday: Continental Breakfast / Lamb Shank with mash potatoes and Grilled Vegetables

Saturday: Continental Breakfast / Breakfast a la carte / Chef's Special

Sunday: Continental Breakfast / Breakfast a la carte / Chef's Special

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: Sledding

Tuesday: Hockey

Wednesday: Swimming/Pickleball

Thursday: Swimming/Tennis

Friday: Touch Rugby

Hockey (7-8)

Monday: Hockey

Tuesday: Hockey

Wednesday: Pickleball

Thursday: Hockey

Friday: Touch Rugby

Hybrid Lacrosse Hockey (7-8)

Monday: Hockey

Tuesday: Hockey

Wednesday: Lacrosse

Thursday: Hockey

Friday: Lacrosse

Middle School Boys Lacrosse (7-8)

Monday: Sledding

Tuesday: Hockey

Wednesday: Lacrosse

Thursday: Tennis

Friday: Lacrosse

Middle School Girls Lacrosse (7-8)

Monday: Lacrosse

Tuesday: Hockey

Wednesday: Lacrosse

Thursday: Tennis

Friday: Lacrosse

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

• Tuesday, February 24 - U15 Prep Championship vs. UCC - 11:00AM - Alder Arena

• Tuesday, February 24 - U16 Prep Championship vs. UCC - 1:00PM - Alder Arena

• Wednesday, February 25 - Pink Shirt Day

• Wednesday, February 25 - Lunch and Learn - The Hill Volleyball - 12:00PM

• Thursday, February 26 - U15 Prep Championship vs. UCC - 4:00PM - UCC Arena

• Thursday, February 26 - U16 Prep Championship vs. UCC - 4:00PM - UCC Arena

• Friday, February 27 - U18 Prep Hockey vs. OHO - 2:00PM - Teen Ranch

• Saturday, February 28 - U15 Hockey vs. BK Selects - 12:00PM - Teen Ranch

• Saturday, February 28 - U16 Hockey vs. BK Selects - 4:30PM - Teen Ranch

• Sunday, March 1 - U15 Hockey vs. BK Selects - 11:30AM - Rochester Ice Center

• Sunday, March 1 - U16 Hockey vs. BK Selects - 1:30PM - Rochester Ice Center

• Sunday, March 1 - U18 Prep Hockey vs. OHO - 11:00AM - Whitby, ON

• Tuesday, March 3 - U15 Prep Championship vs. UCC - 11:00AM - Alder Arena

• Tuesday, March 3 - U16 Prep Championship vs. UCC - 1:00PM - Alder Arena

• Thursday, March 5 - U15 Prep Championship vs. UCC - 4:00PM - UCC Arena (*If Nec)

• Saturday, March 7 - U15 Prep Championship vs. UCC - 12:30PM - UCC Arena (*If Nec)

• Wednesday, March 11 - U16 Prep Championship vs. UCC - 1:00PM - Alder Arena (*If Nec)

• Thursday, March 12 - U16 Prep Championship vs. UCC - 1:00PM - Alder Arena (*If Nec)

• March Break: Monday, March 16 - Friday, March 27

• Tuesday, May 26 - Senior Athletic Gala - Details TBD

• Wednesday, June 10 - Junior Athletic Banquet - Details TBD

• Thursday, June 11 - Grade 8 Grad

• Friday, June 12 - Grade 12 Grad

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:

airbnb.ca/h/paigedanforthalton

Cottages In Canada Link: 

https://www.cottagesincanada.com/36113

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:

Town of Orangeville Recreation 

Theatre Orangeville

Orangeville Foodbank

Orangeville OSPCA

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:

Calendar for Grades 9-12/PG

Calendar for Kindergarten - Grade 8

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.