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7-12 Newsletter 04.17.26


April 17, 2026


Hello Hill Families,

This time of year is always busy; between the OSSLT, midterms, sports teams starting and finishing their seasons, and the last push toward the finish line, there is a great deal happening at once. All the while, we are watching the weather (slowly) shift toward warmer days. Spring brings visible reminders of renewal; new growth, fresh experiences, and the understanding that rain and storms often lead to the brightest blooms of the season.


It was a powerful reminder this week to realize that we are now in the final eight weeks of the school year. At the start of September, it can be difficult to imagine everything that will unfold, and the end can feel far in the distance. Yet suddenly, we find ourselves in the final stretch, already three-quarters of the way through the year.


Our students have already accomplished so much. They have grown academically in the classroom, developed skills through athletics, and challenged themselves in the gym and beyond. Now, it is time to bring all of these experiences together as they work toward reaching their highest level of achievement this year.


During assembly this week, Mr. Gillis and his class shared valuable strategies for studying, time management, and preparation. These are skills our students can continue to apply as they build confidence and prepare for upcoming evaluations, final projects, and exams.

As the weather gets warmer and excitement builds for what lies ahead, I encourage everyone to embrace a phrase we often hear around the school: “be where your feet are.” Stay focused, motivated, and resilient as we continue moving forward and finish the year strong.


Happy Spring!

Emily Walko

Director of Student Success


In this week's Newsletter:


Senior Athletic Gala - Early Bird Tickets

Early bird tickets are available for $125. Act now and get your tickets before May 2, when the price will increase to $135.



If you are looking to support the growth of The Hill Community with campus improvements (much like the Nest) and gain exposure through our year-end events, please express your interest in supporting here.


Feather Award Recipients

Student-athletes at The Hill who have achieved a grade of 90% or higher in all of their classes at the midterm, celebrate together at a special chef’s curated luncheon. Congratulations to this year's Recipients:


  • Ryley Black

  • Noah Cass

  • Cooper Cosmo

  • Abigail Craig

  • Porter Crossman

  • Payton Cvetkovic

  • Mac Day

  • Garin Dunton

  • Sarah Elson

  • Jaxson Francey

  • Camden Hare

  • Kole Kanters

  • Gillian Kee

  • Jillian Lee

  • Isaac Lovatt

  • Ronin Maharaj

  • Ognjen Martinovic

  • Reece McClellan

  • Finley Merrill

  • Dominic Rago

  • Avery Summerville

  • Beatrice Tamburro

  • Addison Tapper

  • Jasper Vollmerhaus


The Feather Award highlights one or two students from each class who consistently exemplify our H.I.L.L. Values and demonstrate well-rounded growth in academics, character, and community engagement. Congratulations to our Junior and Middle School recipients:


  • Audrey Allard

  • Owen Goverde

  • Madeline Urquhart-Blowe

  • Ava Yardley

  • Abigail Stager

  • Spencer Bonotto

  • Brooke Soloman

  • Liam Ritchie

  • Cole Hopkins

  • Mackenzie Yardley


Support The Prom Committee


Dear Parents, Guardians, Grandparents, and Supporters,


We are reaching out to ask for your support by donating to The Hill Academy Prom. With your help, we hope to create a truly special and memorable night for our graduates as they celebrate this important milestone.


Prom is a once in a lifetime experience where students come together to celebrate their hard work, friendships, and achievements. We are putting a lot of effort into making this evening meaningful and enjoyable for everyone, and your support would make a huge difference.


Any donation, big or small, will go directly toward enhancing the experience and creating an unforgettable evening for everyone attending. This year, prom will be held at the Royal Ambassador, and we hope to make the night as special as possible for our graduates in this beautiful setting.


Donations can be made by e-transfer to accounting@thehillacademy.com and include prom in the notes.


If you can contribute, we would sincerely appreciate your support. It truly means so much to us and to the students.


Thank you for your kindness and for being such an important part of our community.


Warm regards,

Prom Committee

Power School Parent Portal

The Power School Student and Parents portal is now open.


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!


Tick Awareness

As we have entered the outdoor season, it's important to be mindful of tick encounters. We have had a couple of sightings, which is not uncommon at this time of year. To learn more about ticks and tick bites, please visit the following link: https://wdgpublichealth.ca/your-community/ticks-lyme-disease Stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect yourself/ your child from ticks.


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: Ground Beef Mac and cheese & Green Beans

Tuesday: Grilled Cheese Tomato Soup Glazed Carrots Bizmati Rice Chickpea Curry

Wednesday: New England Baked Haddock Bizmati Rice Sauted Peas Stewed Zucchini

Thursday: Quesadilla Mexican Corn Slaw Sweet Potato Fries

Friday: Jerk Chicken Bizmati Rice Steamed Peas


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


Residence Meal Plan (Breakfast / Dinner)

Monday: Continental Breakfast / Baked Salmon Charred Lemon Broccolini Shaved Fennel & Apple Salad Roasted Fingerling Potatoes Mediterranean Tomato & Cucumber Salad

Tuesday: Continental Breakfast /Chicken Fried Rice Vegetable Spring Rolls Garlic Bok Choy Stir-Fried Cabbage

Wednesday: Continental Breakfast / Balsamic Pork Tenderloin Butternut squash Parmesan Roasted Crimini Mushrooms Wild Rice Pilaf

Thursday: Continental Breakfast / Beef Stroganoff Egg Noodles Steamed Broccoli Crispy Baguette Greek Salad

Friday: Continental Breakfast / Grilled Cheese Mexican Chili Zuchini Fries Cilantro-Lime Slaw


Saturday: Breakfast à la carte / Chicken Marsala Broccoli Sauted Snap Peas Roasted Potatoes House Salad

Sunday: Breakfast à la carte / Pork Ribs Baked Beans sides Collard Greens Corn Maque Choux Sweeet Potato Wedges Rice


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: Cricket

Wednesday: Soccer

Thursday: Cricket

Friday: Free Play


Hockey (7-8)

Monday: Hockey

Tuesday: Hockey

Wednesday: Soccer

Thursday: Hockey

Friday: Free Play


Hybrid Lacrosse Hockey (7-8)

Monday: Lacrosse

Tuesday: Hockey

Wednesday: Lacrosse

Thursday: Hockey

Friday: Lacrosse


Middle School Boys Lacrosse (7-8)

Monday: Lacrosse

Tuesday: Cricket

Wednesday: Lacrosse

Thursday: Cricket

Friday: Lacrosse


Middle School Girls Lacrosse (7-8)

Monday: Lacrosse

Tuesday: Cricket

Wednesday: Lacrosse

Thursday: Cricket

Friday: Lacrosse

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


  • 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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