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Grade 4-8 Weekly Newsletter 2026.09.25

kevinhayashi
Sep 25
13 min read

September 25, 2026


Dear Hill Families,


“A team that is united and connected is a powerful team.”  Jon Gordon


This week at The Hill, we had some great reminders of what it means to be a team and a community.


We had the privilege of listening to Jon Gordon speak about the power of connection and positive thinking. We came together to cheer on our hockey and lacrosse teams as they competed, and we shared a community BBQ and meet-and-greet with our teachers. While these may seem like very different moments, they all had something important in common: we showed up for one another.


At The Hill, we are part of many different teams. We have our sports teams, our classes, our grade groups and our staff teams. Underneath all of those individual teams is one larger community. We get to know one another, celebrate each other’s successes, encourage each other through challenges, and create an environment where everyone has a role to play.


Jon Gordon reminds us that connection creates strength. When we are connected, we are more invested in one another, more willing to support each other, and more capable of accomplishing great things together.


In the spirit of this amazing week of community, I want to echo Jon Gordon’s questions about continual improvement:

  • What did we do well? 

  • What can we do better? 

  • What did we learn that will make us better?


These questions apply to all of us as students, athletes, teachers, coaches and staff.


We have an incredible team at The Hill this year. If we continue to show up, stay connected, support each other and keep getting better, there’s no stopping what we can accomplish together.


Christy Flynn Director of Academics and Guidance


In this week's Newsletter:


Truth and Reconciliation Day - September 30


On Wednesday September 30th, The Hill Academy will be recognizing Truth and Reconciliation. In recognition, the school will be closed for all grades. Our Reconciliation Educator, Mr. Collins has compiled a list of learning opportunities below.


On Tuesday September 29th, students can show their support by wearing an orange shirt to school. A reminder that regular uniform bottoms and shoes will be required.


If you take anything away from this list of recommendations, please remember to keep an open mind, and be ready to listen to the experiences of Indigenous people. Don’t dismiss these lived experiences because they make you uncomfortable. Remember that September 30th is a day of remembrance, and reflection.


Learn

  1. Find out whose land you are living on.  Native-land.ca and whose.land are a great place to start.  These websites are not perfectly accurate, but will give you an idea of the nations whose traditional land you are currently residing upon.

    1. Don’t stop there.  Once you know whose land you are on, start learning about those people.  If you live on Michi Saagiig territory (large parts of the GTA are Michi Saagiig territory) I recommend the book Michi Saagiig Nishnaabeg: This is our Territory by Gidigaa Migizi (Doug Williams).  He teaches you about the history of the Michi Saagiig using the oral histories of his family.

  2. Learn about key pieces of legislature, both historical and modern.

    1. Start with the Indian Act.  This piece of legislation is still in effect today.  It outlines the government obligations to Indigenous people in Canada.  I recommend the book 21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act by Bob Joseph to help understand this legislation.

    2. Then move onto the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC).  More specifically, the 94 Calls to Action created by the TRC as a way to reconcile the history of Residential Schools in Canada.  A study from 2019 showed only 9 of the 94 calls to action had been completed.

    3. Lastly, check out the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and Bill C-15 which passed its third reading in the Federal Senate on June 16, 2021.  Bill C-15 seeks to bring Federal laws in line with UNDRIP.  This could be a huge step in further protecting the rights of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people in Canada.

  1. Have you ever been to a Pow Wow? Me Neither. Here is a List of Pow Wow’s in Ontario

    1. https://calendar.powwows.com/events/categories/pow-wows-in-ontario/

    2. https://northernontario.travel/indigenous/pow-wows-ontario-complete-list



  1. Visit “hidden” local spaces, like the Bravery Park Medicine Wheel Garden in Orangeville

    1. https://www.orangeville.ca/en/visit/news/discover-local-indigenous-culture.aspx

  2. Here is a list gathered by the Ontario government about Indigenous experiences throughout the province.

    1. https://www.destinationontario.com/en-ca/things-to-do/indigenous-experiences

Please keep in mind that Indigenous culture is NOT monolithic, and it is very far reaching. This is a mere sampling of Books, Podcasts, Movies/TV, and Music. This is all stuff I have consumed, and can feel good about recommending. There is lots more out there to experience.

  • The Grizzlies (2018) Fictional (This movie has a connection to the Hill - but please note it is not really appropriate for younger audiences. Viewer discretion is advised)

  • Angry Inuk (2016) Nonfiction - Documentary

  • Reel Injun (2009) Nonfiction - Documentary

  • Indian Horse (2017) Fictional - Movie

  • Smoke Signals (1998) Fictional - Movie

  • There’s Something in the Water (2019) Nonfiction - Documentary

  • Secret Path (2016) Fictional - Documentary/Music about Chanie Wenjack

  • Rutherford Falls (2021) Fictional - TV Series

  • Reservation Dogs (2021) Fictional - TV Series

  • Basketball or Nothing (2019)  Nonfiction - Docuseries

  • Killers of the Flower Moon (2023) Fictional - Movie

  • North of North (2025) Fictional - TV Series

  • Smudge the Blades (2026) Fictional - Movie

  • Thunder Bay by Canadaland.  A Podcast about the story of the 7 Indigenous high school students who died in Thunder Bay.

  • Media Indigena.  A round table podcast where each week there is a new panel of Indigenous guests on to discuss Indigenous current affairs and events.

  • Telling our Twisted Histories.  A new podcast about decolonizing our language, and the importance of words.

  • Secret Life of Canada. A podcast about parts of Canadian history that didn’t make it into the history books.

  • Unreserved. A podcast that lets you hear from Indigenous people from across the country.

  • This Place.  This is a CBC podcast adapted from the Graphic novel mentioned above.  It is 10 episodes adapted from 10 stories written by Indigenous people from across Canada.

  • The Jerry Cans

  • Snotty Nose Res Kids

  • Tanya Tagaq

  • Supaman

  • Kristi Lane Sinclair

  • Aysanabee

  • Halluci Nation (formerly called “A Tribe Called Red”)

  • DJ Shub

  • Northern Cree

  • Jeremy Dutcher 


Spotify playlist including all of these artists: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4jEl320LZW58aQEtqRZfCO?si=cb72eb49eff64775




Picture Day - October 6

Student photos will be taken on Tuesday, October 6. A photo retake day has been scheduled for Wednesday, October 28.


Terry Fox Fundraiser

On Thursday, October 1st, The Hill Academy will host our annual Terry Fox Run for all students. Students can show their support by wearing a Terry Fox shirt to school. A reminder that regular uniform bottoms and shoes will be required. If not wearing a Terry Fox shirt, students are required to be in their regular uniform.


Terry Fox’s 1980 Marathon of Hope remains one of the most powerful examples of resilience, courage, and selfless dedication in Canadian history. Running a marathon a day on an artificial leg to raise money for cancer research, Terry embodied the exact values we strive to instill in our student-athletes every day: grit, integrity, and relentless pursuit of a purpose greater than oneself.


This year, our Terry Fox Run also kicks off our year-long House Competition. Every student-athlete at The Hill (Gr.1-PG) has been assigned to a House, where they will earn points for their team throughout the school year through athletic, academic, and community achievements.


Our fundraising efforts for cancer research mark the very first challenge of the House Competition. We encourage you to talk with your student-athlete about which House they represent and learn about the significance of their House name to The Hill Academy community.


You can support your student-athlete and contribute directly to their House's fundraising total by clicking their team name below:


Uniform Reminder

As we've noticed a number of uniform infractions to start the year, we wanted to take a moment to clarify the uniform expectations.


In Class Daily Uniform (Monday- Thursday)

Students are to wear a Hill polo shirt with black or khaki pants, shorts, or a skort. A Hill hoodie, crewneck sweatshirt, or track jacket may be worn over the polo. Please note that pants, shorts, and skorts cannot be plaid, have cargo pockets, or be made of sweat suit material. Tights, bicycle shorts and leggings are not permitted. Shoes should be clean, presentable, and professional.


Physical Education

A Hill workout shirt and shorts are required for PE. A Hill hoodie, crewneck sweatshirt, track jacket, or track pants may be worn over top. Polos and skorts are not permitted. 


Fridays

On Fridays, students are welcome to wear the physical education uniform all day long, including in class.


🪺 Step Up to The Nest!

We’re excited to welcome our Grade 1–3 students to The Nest during lunch for a chance to step up to the counter, make a choice, and purchase a snack to fuel their body and mind!

This is a great opportunity to put the “I” in HILL — Independent Thought into action.


Students will be encouraged to think critically about what their body needs, make their own snack choice, and take responsibility for their purchase.


There’s no cash at The Nest. Parents can use the links provided to purchase a $25, $55 or other available snack card, and we’ll work with each student to help them understand and keep track of their revolving balance.


Beyond the snack, The Nest is a fun opportunity for students to build independence, confidence and social skills — practicing ordering, using manners, making choices, interacting with others and enjoying the experience of stepping up to the counter!

We look forward to interacting with your child — they are the highlight of our day! 🪺


The Nest Team @The Hill Academy


Student Success and Accommodations

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. As our Director of Student Success; she works with our entire school community from Kindergarten through our post-graduates.

 

Students are also welcome to stop by the her workspace to check in or ask questions. Please contact Ms. Walko with any questions at emily.walko@thehillacademy.com


Before/After Care

Our before and after school program is available for students from Kindergarten through 8th grade, and is designed to complement their school day.


If you are interested in learning more about the Before and After Care available please visit this link.


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.


Kiss and Ride Protocol

A smooth and efficient Kiss & Ride starts with everyone being prepared. Please have students dressed, organized, and ready to exit the vehicle when you arrive.


To help keep traffic moving, we ask parents to assist their children in getting out of the vehicle quickly and safely. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping the line moving and reducing wait times for everyone.


Please keep the following in mind:

  • The right side is designated for student drop-off.

  • The left side is for through traffic.

  • The roadway past the main school is one-way.

  • Please drive slowly and remain alert, particularly around the main building and designated turning areas.


Thank you for helping us make Kiss & Ride a safe, smooth, and efficient experience for all Hill families!


Uniform


For Student-Athletes in Grades 4-8

All Hill branded uniform items must be purchased from The Hill Store


In Class:

  • Hill polo shirt

  • Black or khaki pants, shorts or skort

  • Students are permitted to wear a Hill hoodie, Hill crewneck sweatshirt, or Hill track jacket over their polo

  • Male student-athletes' shirts must be tucked into their pants with a belt

  • Pants/shorts/skort cannot; be plaid, have cargo pockets, or be made of sweat suit material

  • Tights/leggings are NOT permitted

  • All shoes must be presentable, clean and professional looking

  • Crocs and sandals/slides are NOT permitted

  • Student-athletes are only permitted to wear their Hill track suit in class on Fridays. Both the pants and jacket must be in The Hill Academy uniform and worn with a Hill shirt.


In Physical Education:

  • Hill work-out shirt and shorts must be worn

  • Hill hoodie, Hill crewneck sweatshirt or Hill track jacket and track pants can be worn over top


Other:

  • Hats are not permitted at any time within the school buildings

  • Non-Hill jackets and outerwear are not permitted to be worn in class at any time

  • A separate order for Hill branded winter jackets will be made available in first semester

  • Uniform items must be purchased here: The Hill Store

  • Uniform apparel orders can be picked up in the main office

Absences and Late Arrivals

Parents/guardians are responsible for reporting student absences to The Hill Academy. When a student is absent, please email attendance@thehillacademy.com to report the absence.


If a student-athlete will miss a Physical Education or sport period for any reason, please also email your physical education lead, Grades 1-3 Krista Gott, Grades 4-6 Anthony Cosmo, Grades 7-8 George Debenham, and High School Drazen Glisic copying Kyle Piper.


Privit

A reminder that as documents related to Privit (ie. passport, health card, insurance, etc.) expire and new ones are issued, you must update your Privit

 

Click HERE for registration instructions.

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!


TeamSnap

You will receive an invitation to TeamSnap for your child's designated sport program.


Through TeamSnap you will receive all communication with relevant information, events, equipment needs. Individual TeamSnap teams have been set up by grade or sport program.


To subscribe directly to your TeamSnap calendar (add to your personal calendar), please click below:



Upcoming Events

  • Saturday September 26 - 5:00PM - Prep Hockey vs. OHO - Iroquois Park Sports Centre, Whitby

  • Tuesday September 29 - Orange Shirt Day at The Hill Academy

  • Tuesday September 29 - 2:00PM - U16AAA vs. UCC - Wilder Arena, Toronto if necessary

  • Tuesday September 29 - 9:00PM - U15AAA vs. Guelph Gryphons - Victoria Road Recreation Centre, Guelph, ON

  • Wednesday September 30 - National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (School Closed)

  • Thursday October 1 - Terry Fox Run

  • Thursday October 1 - 6:15 - U15AAA vs. Mississauga Senators - CAA Centre, Brampton, ON

  • Friday October 2 - 2:00PM - U18 Prep Hockey vs St. Mike's - SMCS Arena, Toronto, ON

  • Saturday October 3 - 11:00AM - U15AAA vs. Don Mills Flyers - Honey and Barry Memorial Arena, Vaughan, ON

  • Saturday October 3 - 1:30PM - U16AAA vs. BioSteel Academy - Teen Ranch, Caledon, ON

  • Saturday October 3 - 3:30PM - U18 Prep Hockey vs. BioSteel Academy - Teen Ranch, Caledon, ON

  • Sunday October 4 - TBD - U15AAA vs. Buffalo Jr. Sabres - Teen Ranch, Caledon, ON

  • Tuesday October 6 - Student Photo Day

  • Thursday October 8 - Sunday October 11 - U16AAA at Wendy Dufton Memorial Tournament - London, ON

  • Thursday October 8 - 1:00PM - U18 Prep Hockey vs. Appleby College - Teen Ranch, Caledon, ON

  • Friday October 9 - PD Day for Grades K-8

  • Saturday October 10 - 10:00AM - Prep Lacrosse vs. Wittenburg College - Legacy Field

  • Monday October 12 - Thanksgiving (school is closed)


The Hill Eats

The Hill Eats, led by Chef Michael, provides delicious, nutritious hot lunch for student-athletes at The Hill Academy.


To add The Hill Eats TeamSnap calendar to your personal calendar, click here, or copy this subscription link: http://ical-cdn.teamsnap.com/team_schedule/e002921d-f099-49aa-8200-4a3c85a8b827.ics


Chef Michael's upcoming menu can be found below (Breakfast and Dinner have been listed for Residence Student-Athletes):



If your day student-athlete would like to join the lunch plan, please register now.


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.


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.


Transportation

If your Grade 4-8 student-athlete requires transportation, please submit this form immediately.


School Hours/Information

Grades 4-12 School Hours: 8:10am - 3:50pm


Junior School 4-8 supervision begins at 8:00 a.m. in your child’s homeroom. Students who are dropped off between 7:45 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. may wait in the cafe.


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 2026-2027

Annual school calendars are available on the website:




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