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7-12 Newsletter 04.10.26


April 10, 2026


Hello Hill Family,

As the spring weather finally arrives, it’s hard to believe the hockey season has come to an end. Over the past week, I’ve found myself reflecting on the many great moments our U16 team shared throughout the year.


This group first came together at our mid-summer camp in July, and as a staff, we knew right away there was something special. They took pride in pushing themselves and each other every single day. Their work ethic, compete level, and commitment made it easy for us to prepare and deliver meaningful practices. They were relentless, driven, and held one another accountable. These are qualities that define not only strong hockey players, but strong young men.


Coaching this group was truly a privilege, and I will forever be grateful for the time we shared together.


Since April 2023, when The Hill Academy was awarded Hockey Canada sanctioning, our focus has been clear, to build a competitive program that develops both elite hockey players and outstanding people. Over the past three years, there have been challenges, growth, and countless memories that I will always cherish. This U16 group has now set the standard and leaves behind a legacy that we can all be proud of.


I would like to thank our players, families, and the entire Hill staff for your continued support and commitment. You have all played a role in helping bring this vision to life. This reflection on legacy provides a great opportunity to touch base with our student-athletes. I encourage you to ask your child what legacy they are striving to leave, whether it is here at the school, in their sport or in their community.


Thanks,

Ryan Toomey

Director of Hockey


In this week's Newsletter:


Parent-Teacher and Parent-Coach Virtual Interviews

We will be using Pick a Time to schedule our virtual parent meetings again this year. Using THIS LINK you can schedule 10 minute virtual meeting times for teachers and coaches Thursday April 16th from 4:30pm-7:00pm and Friday April 17th from 9:00am-1:00pm.


Questions about the Pick-a-Time system can be directed to christy.flynn@thehillacademy.com


Power School Parent Portal

The Power School Student and Parents portal is now open.


Midterm Report Cards

Semester 2 midterm report cards have been distributed to students.


Guidance Meetings and Community Involvement

Students have been advised to schedule Guidance meetings with Mrs. Flynn to discuss course selection options before submitting their course selection forms. Course selection can be accessed through this link.


Graduating students who have yet to submit their community involvement hours have been emailed. Please note that students are required to submit at least 40 hours of community involvement by May 29th.


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


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: Buddha Bowl (Mediterranean Fallafel) Roasted Vegetable Medley Bizmati Rice

Tuesday: Grilled ChickenBreast Caesar Salad Potato Wedges

Wednesday: Pinwheel Cold Cut Wrap Carrot and Celery Sticks Bizmatti Rice

Thursday: Honey Glazed Ham Sweet Potato Caserole Crispy Broccoli

Friday: Mexican Chilli served with Freshly Fried Nacho Chips & Fixings


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


Residence Meal Plan (Breakfast / Dinner)

Monday: Continental Breakfast / Jamaican Curry Goat Rice & Peas Steamed Cabbage & Carrots Jamaican Garden Salad

Tuesday: Continental Breakfast / Veal Parmesan Penne Tomato Stir-Fried Vegetable Medley Mixed Green Salad

Wednesday: Continental Breakfast / Thai Pad See Ew Thai Cucumber Salad Chinese Broccoli Stir-Fried Snow Peas

Thursday: Continental Breakfast / Cheese Burger French Fries Onion Rings Corn on the Cob Ceaser Salad

Friday: Continental Breakfast / Ground Beef Rigatoni Garlicky Green Beans Crispy Baguette Cucumber-Avocado-Tomato Salad


Saturday: Breakfast à la carte / New York Striploin Steak Fries Steamed Broccoli Roasted Beet Salad

Sunday: Breakfast à la carte / Chicken Parmesan Caponata House Salad Penne Tomato


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: Golf

Tuesday: Lacrosse

Wednesday: Baseball

Thursday: Soccer

Friday: PD Day


Hockey (7-8)

Monday: Hockey

Tuesday: Hockey

Wednesday: Baseball

Thursday: Hockey

Friday: PD Day


Hybrid Lacrosse Hockey (7-8)

Monday: Lacrosse

Tuesday: Hockey

Wednesday: Lacrosse

Thursday: Hockey

Friday: PD Day


Middle School Boys Lacrosse (7-8)

Monday: Lacrosse

Tuesday: Lacrosse

Wednesday: Lacrosse

Thursday: Soccer

Friday: PD Day


Middle School Girls Lacrosse (7-8)

Monday: Lacrosse

Tuesday: Lacrosse

Wednesday: Lacrosse

Thursday: Soccer

Friday: PD Day

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


  • 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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