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K-6 Newsletter 02.20.26


February 20, 2026


Hello Hill Families,


I have the privilege of interacting with K-PG students. I see them learning, problem-solving, competing, and supporting one another; whether it’s at recess, in the classroom, during assessments, or playing the sports they love.


There are transferable and emotional skills that can be applied to all of these moments, at any age. Two that stand out, especially this time of year, are resilience and perseverance. 


During a Hill session with our grade 8 students this week, we explored what resilience is and how it appears in our everyday lives. Resilience is something that we begin to develop at a very early age. As we learn to walk, we learn how to fall and get back up. It is an essential skill that allows us to grow, push forward, and reach the next level, something our student-athletes strive for.


We talked through how resilience develops, and the areas we use it. It is a skill needed in the classroom; when you start a new subject that is outside of your comfort zone, you are in a new unit in class that is challenging you more than it has before, you get a test back and don’t see the mark that you had hoped for. In sports; when you don’t make the team or lineup you wanted, or facing an injury that changes how you envisioned your season. 


We reflected on a quote by Steve Maraboli that says “life doesn’t get easier or more forgiving, we get stronger and more resilient.” While some things do come easier, or go the way you want, at other moments it feels completely out of control and like nothing goes your way. It’s in those moments where we can see growth. When we push ourselves to stick with something we’re not good at right away, or when you feel like you need to work harder than everyone just to understand something or achieve something. 


Overall, it's our ability to persevere and shift our mindset. Look at things as opportunities for growth, or a natural part of life. 


Our student athletes face challenges in all aspects of their lives, just like we all do. Choosing to look ahead, find the lesson, or simply build coping skills during difficult moments is what helps set them apart.


So, when things get tough, challenge yourself to stick with it, take it in stride and recognize how these moments help us, and our brains, grow stronger.


Looking forward to the weeks ahead,


Emily Walko

Director of Student Success/ Primary French



In this week's Newsletter:


Pink Shirt Day - Wed Feb 25

Pink Shirt Day will be recognized on Wednesday February 25. Student-athletes are encouraged to wear pink shirts with appropriate uniform bottoms.


Pink Shirt Day is a global anti-bullying movement where people wear pink to symbolize taking a stand against bullying. This year's theme is a sprinkle of kindness.


Junior School Athletic Banquet

Please save the date for the Junior School Athletic Banquet, which will be held on Wednesday, June 10th. More details to follow.


Trees Being Removed on Campus

The Hill Community may have noticed trees coming down between the main building and the roadway. An Arborist Report had determined that the trees in that area were dying or dead and should be removed before becoming a safety hazard. We applied for and were provided a permit to remove them. We plan to repurpose the space into additional features that student-athletes and The Hill community will continue to enjoy on campus for many years to come.


New Stop Sign

There has been a new stop sign installed on the roundabout at the crosswalk leading to the entrance of the main building. Please abide by all signs on campus to help us keep safety at the forefront of our community.


The Hill Volleyball

Learn more about The Hill Volleyball program, coming to The Hill in 2026-27! If you know of a Volleyball Family outside of our The Hill Community that would like to learn more information, we encourage them to sign up for a Lunch and Learn event that we will be hosting virtually on Wednesday February 25 at 12pm. They can RSVP here to receive a link.


Read the announcement here:

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.



Winter Weather Reminder

As the temperature fluctuates, we kindly remind parents and guardians that students must come to school dressed appropriately for outdoor conditions each day. Our classes spend a portion of their day outside, and proper winter gear, such as boots, snow pants, a warm coat, hat, and gloves, is essential to ensure students stay comfortable and safe.

Thank you for your support in helping our students enjoy their outdoor time!


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.


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

The Hill Eats

The Hill Academy is pleased to offer a hot lunch program crafted by The Hill Eats team to include a balanced, macro-friendly nutritional meal that is designed to fuel The Hill Academy's student-athletes.


Grades 1-6 Lunch

Monday: Chicken Tenders Mac N Chz Honey Glazed Carrots

Tuesday: Chef's Special

Wednesday: Pinwheel Cold Cut Sandwich Carrot and Celery Sticks

Thursday: Spaghetti and Meatballs with Garlic Bread

Friday: Chef's Special

If your day student would like to be on the lunch plan, please register now!


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

Sports Schedule

For team based sports (ie. Junior Hockey Development), check your individual team's TeamSnap for the most up to date schedule.


Foundations of Sport (1-3):

Monday: Gymnastics/Sledding

Tuesday: Gymnastics/Sledding

Wednesday: Yoga and Games

Thursday: Frisbee Friday: Touch Rugby


Foundations of Sport (4-6)

Monday: Sledding

Tuesday: Hockey

Wednesday: Swimming/Pickleball

Thursday: Swimming/Tennis

Friday: Touch Rugby


Hockey (5-6)

Monday: Hockey

Tuesday: Lacrosse

Wednesday: Sledding

Thursday: Hockey

Friday: Touch Rugby

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


  • Tuesday, February 24 - U15 Prep Championship vs. UCC - 11:00AM - Alder Arena

  • Tuesday, February 24 - U16 Prep Championship vs. UCC - 1:00PM - Alder Arena

  • Wednesday, February 25 - Pink Shirt Day

  • Wednesday, February 25 - Lunch and Learn - The Hill Volleyball - 12:00PM

  • Thursday, February 26 - U15 Prep Championship vs. UCC - 4:00PM - UCC Arena

  • Thursday, February 26 - U16 Prep Championship vs. UCC - 4:00PM - UCC Arena

  • Friday, February 27 - U18 Prep Hockey vs. OHO - 2:00PM - Teen Ranch

  • Saturday, February 28 - U15 Hockey vs. BK Selects - 12:00PM - Teen Ranch

  • Saturday, February 28 - U16 Hockey vs. BK Selects - 4:30PM - Teen Ranch

  • Sunday, March 1 - U15 Hockey vs. BK Selects - 11:30AM - Rochester Ice Center

  • Sunday, March 1 - U16 Hockey vs. BK Selects - 1:30PM - Rochester Ice Center

  • Sunday, March 1 - U18 Prep Hockey vs. OHO - 11:00AM - Whitby, ON

  • Tuesday, March 3 - U15 Prep Championship vs. UCC - 11:00AM - Alder Arena

  • Tuesday, March 3 - U16 Prep Championship vs. UCC - 1:00PM - Alder Arena

  • Thursday, March 5 - U15 Prep Championship vs. UCC - 4:00PM - UCC Arena (*If Nec)

  • Saturday, March 7 - U15 Prep Championship vs. UCC - 12:30PM - UCC Arena (*If Nec)

  • Wednesday, March 11 - U16 Prep Championship vs. UCC - 1:00PM - Alder Arena (*If Nec)

  • Thursday, March 12 - U16 Prep Championship vs. UCC - 1:00PM - Alder Arena (*If Nec)

  • March Break: Monday, March 16 - Friday, March 27

  • 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

School Information

School Hours: 


8:10-3:50- Junior School (4-6)

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


Pick Up (K-6): 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.

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 K-3 uniform guide or the Gr. 4-12 uniform guide. Any questions, concerns or questions apparel@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!

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.

Annual School Calendar 2025-26

Annual school calendars are available on the website:


Teachers

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

Grade 1/2: Mrs. Goverde (jodi.goverde@thehillacademy.com)

Grade 2/3: Mr. Debenham (george.debenham@thehillacademy.com )

Grade 4/5 : Ms. Kennedy (haley.kennedy@thehillacademy.com)

Grade 6: Ms. Barbe (julie.barbe@thehillacademy.com )


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

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.

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.




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