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7-12 Newsletter 04.03.26


April 3, 2026


Hello Hill Community,


I returned this past week from maternity leave, and I’ll be honest, it has been a bittersweet transition. While leaving my baby at home is emotional, it has also served as a powerful reminder of why I love being at The Hill. It reinforces just how grateful I am to work in this environment alongside such a dedicated staff and energetic and driven student body.

There is truly no better place to be than The Hill in the springtime. The stretch from March Break to the end of the year always seems to fly by. With summer around the corner and the temptation to look toward what’s next growing stronger, I want to offer a quick reminder: be where your feet are. I encourage our students to soak in these moments and take advantage of every practice, every class, and every lunchtime hangout. Let’s make the most of the time we have left together this year.


Our U16 Hockey team competed in the OHL Cup this past week, the premier showcase for this age group, featuring the top teams across Ontario and the U.S. At the highest levels of sport, the margin between winning and losing is razor-thin, and sometimes even random. This brought to mind a recent episode of the Plain English podcast, where author Brad Stulberg discussed a poignant truth: the cost of caring deeply for something is inevitable heartbreak.


When you pour everything you have into a goal, you put yourself in a vulnerable position. That is why finding joy in the process is so important. Even though the results sting now, the act of committing fully to a pursuit is a privilege in itself. Our players proved they are among the best, and the resilience they gained through this experience will serve them for a lifetime.


I am excited and proud to be back!


Sincerely,

Tory Merrill

Principal


In this week's Newsletter:

End of Year Celebrations

We're looking forward to celebrating the end of the year with you all. Many activities will be taking place, so stay tuned! Here are some of the highlights:

  • Senior School Athletic Gala - Tuesday, May 26

  • Exams - June 8-10

  • Junior School Banquet - Wednesday, June 10

  • Grade 8 Graduation - Thursday, June 11

  • Grade 12 Graduation - Friday, June 12


Easter Holiday

A reminder that The Hill Academy will recognize Good Friday and Easter Monday by closing. Enjoy this time of reflection with family and friends.


Power School

The Power School student and parent portals will be disabled this weekend while teachers enter midterm report cards. The portal will reopen once midterm reports are distributed. 


Spring Literacy Tests

We are now in the OSSLT (Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test) season again. The OSSLT is a Ministry-required assessment and a graduation requirement for the Ontario Secondary School Diploma. All Grade 10 students, as well as those who are new to Ontario or who have not yet successfully completed the test, will write.


Semester 2 testing runs from March 30 – April 20. Students who are writing have been notified and added to a Google Classroom with information, a short video, and a practice test link. The writing schedule with assigned dates will also be posted there. The practice test is a very strong tool to be well prepared for official writing and can be completed online at any time..


Students with IEPs or required accommodations are being met with individually, and families will receive details by email.


If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Walko at emily.walko@thehillacademy.com  


Allergy Safe Microwave

Student-athletes are to be aware that there is a labeled microwave in the cafeteria area away from the other microwaves that is dedicated to those with allergies. Staff and student-athletes who do not have allergy concerns should not use this microwave.


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.


A reminder that cellphones cannot be used as payment at The Nest Canteen as it is against our school cellphone policy.


Students may pay using a debit/credit card, or, purchase a canteen card online.



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.



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: Easter Monday

Tuesday: Beef Meatloaf Macaroni Salad Sauteed Roasted Beets

Wednesday: Chicken Tenders Creamed Corn Coleslaw Mashed Potatoes

Thursday: Turkey Sausage Roasted Vegetable Medley Potato Salad Corn Bread

Friday: Ground Beef Mac and cheese & Green Beans


Please be advised any feedback or special requests can be sent to lunch@thehillacademy.com 


Residence Meal Plan (Breakfast / Dinner)

Monday: Continental Breakfast / Kung Pao Chicken Bizmatti Rice Egg Rolls Oven Roasted Bok Choy Asian Chopped Salad

Tuesday: Continental Breakfast / Grilled Trout Pesto Pasta Mixed Lettuce Salad Crispy Baguette

Wednesday: Continental Breakfast / Cuban Turkey Picadillo Black Beans Fried Sweet Plantains Bizmati Rice Avocado Salad

Thursday: Continental Breakfast / Pork Chops Scalloped Potatoes Brussel Sprouts Glazed Carrots Broccoli Slaw

Friday: Continental Breakfast / Roasted Chicken Curried Rice Corn Succotash Summer Squash Casserole House Salad


Saturday: Breakfast à la carte / Penne A La Vodka Roasted Red Peppers & Onion Greek Salad Crispy Baguette

Sunday: Breakfast à la carte / Steak Sandwich Onion Rings Roasted Asparagus Roasted 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: Easter Monday

Tuesday: Cricket

Wednesday: Volleyball

Thursday: Soccer

Friday: Volleyball


Hockey (7-8)

Monday: Easter Monday

Tuesday: Hockey

Wednesday: Volleyball

Thursday: Hockey

Friday: Volleyball


Hybrid Lacrosse Hockey (7-8)

Monday: Easter Monday

Tuesday: Hockey

Wednesday: Lacrosse

Thursday: Hockey

Friday: Lacrosse


Middle School Boys Lacrosse (7-8)

Monday: Easter Monday

Tuesday: Cricket

Wednesday: Lacrosse

Thursday: Soccer

Friday: Lacrosse


Middle School Girls Lacrosse (7-8)

Monday: Easter Monday

Tuesday: Cricket

Wednesday: Lacrosse

Thursday: Soccer

Friday: Lacrosse

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


  • Monday, April 6 - Easter Monday

  • Thursday, April 9 - JV/Varsity Lacrosse vs. SMCS - 1PM - Legacy Field

  • Wednesday, April 15 - JV/Varsity vs. UCC - 1PM - Legacy Field

  • Thursday, April 16 - Girls Lacrosse vs Worthington Kilbourne - 5PM - Columbus, OH

  • Thursday, April 16 - Prep Lacrosse vs Culver - Culver, IN

  • Thursday, April 16 evening - Parent-Teacher/Coach Interviews

  • Friday, April 17 - PD Day for K-8/Remote Day for High School

  • Friday, April 17 - Parent-Teacher/Coach Interviews

  • Friday, April 17 - Girls Lacrosse vs Upper Arlington - Upper Arlington, OH

  • Friday, April 17 - Prep Lacrosse vs WRA - Culver, IN

  • Saturday, April 18 - Girls Lacrosse - Galipault Wolford Classic - Worthington, OH

  • Tuesday, April 21 - Prep Lacrosse vs Brunswick - 5PM - Brunswick, CT

  • Wednesday, April 22 - Prep Lacrosse vs Salisbury - 4PM - Salisbury, CT

  • Wednesday, April 29 - Prep Lacrosse vs Lawrenceville - Lawrenceville, NJ

  • Thursday, April 30 - Prep Lacrosse vs Hill School - Philadelphia, PA

  • 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:

 

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.


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.




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