top of page
Search

Grade K-3 Weekly Newsletter 2026.09.25

kevinhayashi
Sep 24
12 min read

Updated: Sep 25


September 25, 2026


Hello Hill Families,


What a wonderful Open House we had! It was such a pleasure to welcome so many of our families to campus and to see our school community come together. Our campus was filled with energy, excitement, and lots of smiles as families had the opportunity to visit classrooms, connect with teachers, meet members of our team, and experience the incredible sense of community that makes The Hill so special.


A very big thank you to our faculty and staff for the time, care, and enthusiasm they put into making the evening such a success. We are so proud of our students and grateful to our families for being such an important part of our community. It was a wonderful evening and a great reminder of what makes The Hill such a special place to learn, grow, and belong.


🧡 Truth and Reconciliation


As we approach September 30, we take time as a school community to recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day (Sept. 29th)– Every Child Matters.


Truth and Reconciliation is an important part of understanding Canada’s history and our responsibility to move forward with greater awareness, respect, and understanding. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation honours residential school Survivors, their families and communities, and the children who never returned home. It also provides an opportunity for Canadians to learn about the history and lasting impacts of the residential school system and to reflect on the ongoing journey toward reconciliation. 


At The Hill, we believe that education plays an important role in helping young people understand the world around them. Truth and Reconciliation reminds us of the importance of listening, learning, asking questions, acknowledging difficult truths, and developing empathy and respect for the experiences and perspectives of others.


September 30 is not simply a day to remember the past; it is also an opportunity to think about how we can contribute to a future built on understanding, respect, and meaningful relationships.


🧡 School Closed – September 30


As a reminder, The Hill Academy will be closed on Wednesday, September 30, for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.


We encourage our families to use this day as an opportunity to pause, learn, listen, and reflect together. We look forward to continuing this important learning and reflection together as a school community.


Casey Kirkpatrick

Director- Early Years & Vice Principal (K-3)

The Hill Academy



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 recongition, 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


In 2025, working with Indigenous Artist, Joe King, The Hill Academy was honoured to introduce an Indigenous inspired logo. You can read the full release here.



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 / Run on October 1

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 instil 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:


🪺 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


Regular School Information

School Hours: 

8:30-3:30- Kindergarten and Primary (K-3)


Pick Up (K-3): To ensure the safety and supervision of all students, any child who has not been picked up within 10 minutes of their dismissal time will be sent to Aftercare and charged accordingly.


This policy helps ensure that every student is accounted for and supervised at all times. It also allows staff to focus on the safe and efficient dismissal of all students. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us maintain a smooth end-of-day routine.


Before/After Care (Siblings of Older Student-Athletes)

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.


Siblings of older students who will be utilizing the free before and aftercare please note: 

Siblings should only attend before or after care when their older sibling is present at school. If the older sibling is absent for the day, younger siblings should be picked up at their regular dismissal time, unless you have contacted us for needing extended care. 


This practice is important to ensure appropriate supervision, accurate staffing, and the safety of all students during extended care hours. It also helps us maintain consistency and fairness for all families using the program.


Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.


Message from the Nadarajah/Ramthahal Family


A Hill Student Helping Give Babies the Best Start 💚


Aarya has been part of The Hill Academy community since Junior Kindergarten. Now in Grade 2, she is partnering with Headwaters Health Care Foundation on her “Here for Headwaters Babies” campaign to help fund two important pieces of equipment: a Panda Warmer, which provides immediate warmth and care for newborns after delivery, and an infant transport unit to help safely transport babies requiring additional care.  Help Aarya raise 80k!


💚 Donate to Aarya’s campaign:


Thank you to the Hill community for supporting one of our young athletes as she learns that you’re never too young to make a difference.


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 Grades 1-PG

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!

Teacher Contact Information


Kindergarten: Ms. Hill (katelyn.hill@thehillacademy.com)

Grade 1: Mrs. Goverde (jodi.goverde@thehillacademy.com)

Grade 2: Ms. Manser (grace.manser@thehillacademy.com) 

Grade 3 : Mrs. Cosmo (erin.cosmo@thehillacademy.com)

Student Support: Ms. Walko (emily.walko@thehillacademy.com)

Primary Support/Kindergarten Physical Education: Ms. Baird (hailey.baird@thehillacademy.com)

Grade 2 Physical Education/Kindergarten Physical Education: Mr. Debenham (george.debenham@thehillacademy.com)

Primary Foundation of Sport: Coach Dre (DGlisic@thehillacademy.com) 

Director of Early Years & Vice Principal (K-3): Casey Kirkpatrick (casey.kirkpatrick@thehillacademy.com)


Uniform


For Student-Athletes in Kindergarten - Grade 3

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


All Day:

  • Hill shirt

  • Hill branded polo shirt for special events

  • Hill branded jogging pants or shorts (or athletic black skort)

    • Tights, leggings or bicycle shorts are NOT permitted


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 DGlisic@thehillacademy.com.


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 designate sport program. Through TeamSnap you will receive all communication with relevant information, events, equipment needs.


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.


Transportation

If your Grade 1-3 student-athlete requires transportation, please submit this form immediately.


Annual School Calendar 2026-2027

Annual school calendars are available on the website:




bottom of page