7-12 Newsletter 05.01.26
- kevinhayashi
- 3 hours ago
- 12 min read
May 1, 2026
Hello Hill Families,
In my almost 20 years working at The Hill, I’ve found there is a quiet but powerful truth in development—whether in academics, athletics, or life: breakthroughs rarely announce themselves in advance. More often, they sit just beneath the surface, disguised as frustration, bitterness, fatigue, or even self-doubt.
At The Hill, we see this every day.
A student grinding through a concept that hasn’t clicked yet.
An athlete putting in extra reps without immediate results.
A team going through a losing streak where nothing seems to go their way.
As my old coach used to say, it is very hard to “resist the urge to feel sorry for yourself.”
It’s in these moments—when progress feels slow or invisible—that growth is actually happening.
Breakthroughs are not linear. They don’t follow a predictable schedule, and they reward patience and persistence.
They emerge after consistent effort, reflection, and the willingness to stay engaged when things are hard—and at times deeply painful.
What’s important—for our students, our staff, and our parents—is recognizing that the distance between failure and success is often much smaller than it feels. Looking back, I’ve been in many situations where that gap was closing without me even realizing it.
The student who is struggling today may be on the verge of understanding tomorrow.
The athlete who feels stuck may be one practice away from a leap forward.
The team working through adversity may be building the foundation for something special.
Our role as a community is to support that space between effort and outcome.
For students: stay with it. Trust that your work is adding up, even when you can’t see it yet.
For coaches and staff: continue to create environments where persistence is valued as much as performance.
For parents: reinforce patience and belief. Be that grounding presence.
Breakthroughs come from sustained commitment.
It’s why at The Hill we preach the power of showing up.
You never know if that next class, practice, or game is your time to experience that breakthrough.
Brodie Merrill,
Athletic Director
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. All tickets must be purchased by May 10th.
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.
Grade 9 Orientation Night - May 28 - 5PM
Grade 9 is just around the corner! Join us for the opportunity to:
Review timetables and schedules
Walk through The Hill Academic Program
Learn more about NCAA Eligibility
Discover Athletic Therapy Services
Review Transportation, Residence and Food Services
Invitations to all student-athletes registered for Grade 9 at The Hill for the 2026-27 school year received an invitation this week.
Questions? Please contact Julie Packard at jpackard@thehillacademy.com
We look forward to seeing you on May 28.
Introducing After School Multi-Sport and Cricket!
We are extremely excited to introduce two new after-school programs that are open to Hill students and to the community.
First, a weekly Multi-Sport program for kids aged 5-10 years old offering a fun mix of sports, similar to our Foundations of Sport program.
Secondly, we are thrilled to "test" the waters with Cricket. Under the guidance of our very own Coach Kyle Piper, kids aged 7-12 will be able to experience highly sought after coaching in one of North America's quickest growing sports. All skill and interest levels welcome!
Sessions will run on Tuesdays after school:
May 26th (Multi-Sport: 4:15-5:00/Cricket 5:00-6:00)
June 2nd (Multi-Sport: 4:15-5:00/Cricket 5:00-6:00)
June 9th (Multi-Sport: 4:15-5:00/Cricket 5:00-6:00)
June 16th (Multi-Sport: 4:15-5:00/Cricket 5:00-6:00)
June 23rd (Multi-Sport: 4:15-5:00/Cricket 5:00-6:00)
Follow the link to learn more about Multi-Sport Training or Cricket Training
Theme Basket Raffle - K-8 Initiative
Our Theme Basket Raffle is now in full swing across all grades K–8! This is a fun, community initiative designed to bring students and families together as we head into the final stretch of the school year. Funds raised will go directly toward school improvements, supporting enhanced learning spaces and student experiences.
Each class has a themed basket, and students are invited to contribute items that match their class theme. Donation details and deadlines have already been shared by classroom teachers.
Thank you for your ongoing generosity and support in helping make this a successful and meaningful school event!
Apparel Flash Sale
On Thursday, May 7 we will be holding a uniform and apparel flash sale in the lower flex area during lunch and at pick up.
Look for flash sale pricing on:
end of season team apparel
older styles of the uniform (acceptable as school uniform)
limited selection of sports equipment
Limited stock of some items and will be first come, first served.
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
The Junior School Athletic Banquet will be held on Wednesday, June 10th. Student-athletes in grades 4-8 are at no cost, and tickets for friends/family are available here. Tickets are first come, first served, and we will be limiting guests to two per student-athlete.
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!
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
Aug 10 - Aug 14 - Hockey Camp * JUST ADDED *
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.
The Hill Eats
Discover this week's menu, bon appétit!
Daily Lunch
Monday: Baked Fish Sticks Tacos Mexican Slaw Chips and Salsa Rice Baked Beans
Tuesday: Grilled Chicken Breast Pasta Pomodoro Roasted Vegetable Medley
Wednesday: Korean BBQ Burrito Broccoli Slaw Bizmatti Rice
Thursday: Beef Meatloaf Mashed Potatoes Green Beans
Friday: Italian Sausage Buttered Egg Noodles Brussel Sprouts
Please be advised any feedback or special requests can be sent to lunch@thehillacademy.com
Residence Meal Plan (Breakfast / Dinner)
Monday: Continental Breakfast / Jambalaya Fried Sweet Plantains Candied Yams Caribbean Style Cucumber and Fruit Salad (Cucumber, Pineapple, Tomato, Lime and Cilantro)
Tuesday: Continental Breakfast / Meatballs Tomato Spaghetti Roasted Steamed Peas Garlic Bread House Salad
Wednesday: Continental Breakfast / Chef's Special
Thursday: Continental Breakfast / Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu Ceaser Salad Glazed Carrots Mashed Potatoes Served with Dijon Mustard Sauce
Friday: Continental Breakfast / Cheese Burger Onion Rings Sweet Potato Cucumber & Dill Salad
Saturday: Acai Breakfast Bowl / New York Striploin Steak Fries Steamed Broccoli Roasted Beet Salad
Sunday: Breakfast à la carte / Chicken Cutlet House Salad Parsley Potatoes Lemonny Green Beans Sautéed Spinach
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: Multi-Sport
Tuesday: Multi-Sport
Wednesday: Multi-Sport
Thursday: Multi-Sport
Friday: Multi-Sport
Hockey (7-8)
Monday: Hockey
Tuesday: Hockey
Wednesday: Lacrosse
Thursday: Hockey
Friday: Multi-Sport
Hybrid Lacrosse Hockey (7-8)
Monday: Lacrosse
Tuesday: Hockey
Wednesday: Lacrosse
Thursday: Hockey
Friday: Lacrosse
Middle School Boys Lacrosse (7-8)
Monday: Lacrosse
Tuesday: Multi-Sport
Wednesday: Lacrosse
Thursday: Multi-Sport
Friday: Lacrosse
Middle School Girls Lacrosse (7-8)
Monday: Lacrosse
Tuesday: Multi-Sport
Wednesday: Lacrosse
Thursday: Multi-Sport
Friday: Lacrosse
View a comprehensive calendar of events by visiting www.thehillacademy.com/calendar
Monday, May 4 - Girls Lacrosse vs. Archbishop John Carroll - Radnor, PA
Tuesday, May 5 - Girls Lacrosse vs. Lawrenceville - Lawrenceville, NJ
Tuesday, May 5 - Junior Varsity Lacrosse vs. Upper St. Clair - Upper St. Clair, PA
Tuesday, May 5 - Varsity Lacrosse vs. Upper St. Clair - Upper St. Clair, PA
Wednesday, May 6 - Junior Varsity Lacrosse vs. Mt. Lebanon - Pittsburgh, PA
Wednesday, May 6 - Varsity Lacrosse vs. Mt. Lebanon - Pittsburgh, PA
Saturday, May 9 - Varsity/JV - CPLL Playoffs - St. Andrew's College - Aurora, ON
Saturday, May 9 - 1PM - Girls Junior School Lacrosse Game - Legacy Field
Wednesday, May 13 - Girls Lacrosse vs. Medina HS - Medina, OH
Thursday, May 14 - Girls Lacrosse vs. Jackson - Massillon, OH
Thursday, May 14 - Sunday, May 17 - Prep Lacrosse @ National Prep Championship - USA Lacrosse Headquarters, Sparks Glencoe, MD
Friday, May 15 - PD Day
Friday, May 15 - Girls Lacrosse vs. Western Reserve Academy - Hudson, OH
Monday, May 18 - Victoria Day
Thursday, May 21 - Girls Junior School Lacrosse Game - Legacy Field
Tuesday, May 26 - Senior Athletic Gala - Details TBD
Friday, June 5 - Last day of class for High School
Monday, June 8 - First Day of Exams
Wednesday, June 10 - Last Day of Exams
Wednesday, June 10 - Junior Athletic Banquet - Details TBD
Thursday, June 11 - Last day of class for K-8
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.
