Thursday , October 15, 2009

 


Innisbrook Fundraiser: Only 1 day left to order!
Deadline October 16, 2009

Have you placed your Innisbrook order yet?  We are presently at 20% of our fundraising goal.

Funds raised by this program will help to purchase items such as classroom SMART boards and COWS (computers on wheels), as well as many other items.  Please help us improve our children's learning environment inside and outside the classroom.  Every little bit helps, no matter how big or small the order.  

To place your order either complete the form included in your catalogue, or alternatively visit the website at www.stanbridge-innisbrook.com and order online! 

 Please note, the correct phone number for catalogue orders is 1-877-525-5608.

Thank you from the HSC Parents’ Association.


"Write" Up Their Alley

We are thrilled to announce that this year the Middle School has introduced a new Writer-in-Residence Program for Grade 7 & 8 students.  Jean Mills, author of four novels and many magazine articles, is working with a group of 15 students who applied and were accepted to the program this summer. 

The students took part in a writer's sweatshop with Jean on Friday, October 2, 2009.  Jean described the experience in a posting on her author's blog, and here is what she had to say:

We talked about choosing the right words and thinking before writing. We shared stories and laughed (probably louder and longer than we should have) at some of the creative and chaotic ideas that came bubbling out. The room was humming with energy!

When it was time for free-writing, these young artists turned their focus to the task at hand and silence fell over the room – the sign of real writers at work. I was impressed with their commitment and concentration, not to mention the joy they obviously took in the deceptively simple act of writing a good story.

The students also had very positive comments. 

I had a great time! Laughing is the best motivation! (Devon Anderson)

I had a lot of fun with the various writing exercises that Jean did with us. I am looking forward to our next visit. (Naman Arora)

The students will be working with Jean via email as well as meeting with her in person for individual counseling in December and March.  The program will culminate in early May with Writer's Cafe, where parents, peers, and teachers will be invited to hear a sampling of the works that the students produce over the year.  Further information about this exciting event will be communicated closer to the date.

Sharon Neibert
Writer-in-Residence Program Coordinator

Upcoming Events


October 21, 2009
Montessori Parents’ Night
M6-9 – 7:00 p.m.
M3-5 – 8:00 p.m.

October 22, 2009
Grad Parent Information Night
7:00 – 8:30 p.m.

October 30, 2009 
Crescendo Concert – Quartetto Gelato
8:00 p.m.

No Late Buses
October 8, 2009
October 29, 2009
October 30, 2009
November 12, 2009

November 2, 2009
Middle School Parent/Teacher Interviews
6:00 – 9:00 p.m.

November 3, 2009
Middle School Parent/Teacher Interviews
4:00 – 6:00 p.m.

November 4, 2009
College-wide Open House

November 10, 2009
Middle School Parent/Teacher Interviews
6:00 – 9:00 p.m.

November 11, 2009
Remembrance Day Ceremony
10:30 a.m.

November 13, 2009
Mid-term Break
College Closed

November 16 through November 19, 2009 and November 23, 2009
Montessori Parent/Teacher Interviews
3:45 – 9:00 p.m.

November 19, 2009
Senior School Parent/Teacher Interviews
4:30 – 8:30 p.m.

November, 24, 2009
Senior School Parent/Teacher Interviews
2:00 – 7:00 p.m.

November 30, 2009
Junior School Parent/Teacher Interviews
3:40 – 7:00 p.m.


Grade 6 HSC student Liam Hadall meets former US Presidents George Bush and Bill Clinton 



Current student Liam Hadalll recently played hooky from HSC and went off to Toronto to meet former Presidents Clinton and Bush. This once-in-a-lifetime meeting took place earlier this year when the two former US Presidents travelled to Canada for a speaking engagement in Toronto.

Liam, dad Ken and mom Kathy were on hand with other VIPs in a small room with about 20 other adults for a personal introduction to the visiting dignitaries. Liam was the only youngster in the room, and George W. Bush and his Secret Service entourage entered, the former President greeted an awestruck Liam with “Hi dude,” shook his hand and asked his name. Before moving on to welcome others, Mr. Bush asked Liam a final question about school. “I told him that I went to Hillfield Strathallan College, and that I was playing hooky”, said Liam. Mr. Bush replied, “Tell your teacher that you spent the day with the President of the United States of America”.

Liam, with the help of his dad, also came away with an exclusive personal autograph from Mr. Bush. “All in all, it was a very cool experience”, said Liam.

With excerpts from the Mountain News, Friday, September 25, 2009


HSC recognized by the Transportation Health and Safety Association of Ontario Fleet Safety Council


Recently Transportation Supervisor Sheila Land accepted a plaque on behalf of the College, in recognition of its support of the THSAO/FSC.  Many years ago, Sheila spearheaded the formation of a council for the bus industry, which at the time was mostly geared towards the trucking industry. The idea was widely accepted, and currently there are seven bus divisions in Ontario with over 500 members.

For the past nine years, Sheila has acted as Chair the Hamilton and Niagara Division, and has been a member of the council for over 20 years. Their monthly meetings include speakers, from across Ontario, who attend to promote safety and training in the transportation industry.

Congratulations to Sheila and the entire Transportation Department at HSC!




HSC Homecoming – Saturday, October 3, 2009

This year’s Homecoming was by far the most polished Homecoming Celebration around!  The beautiful marquee tent filled with House colours greeted each guest as they drove through our main gates. Inside the tent everyone enjoyed a selection of continental snacks and a premium lunch, our guests were wowed!

The Houses did an exceptional job this year with their fundraising, initiatives included a car wash, bake sale, critter corner, bouncy castle and an HSC favourite, a dunk tank.

The games were fantastic, overseen by Co-Directors of Athletics, Sylvia Griffin and Mike Steel.  It was a beautiful day for outdoor sports, Mother Nature was kind and did not unleash a torrent until after the outdoor games were complete. The Senior School teams were very successful.  Winners against Appleby included, Senior and Junior Girls’ Basketball, Junior Boys’ Volleyball, Junior Boys’ Soccer.  The DII Girls’ Field Hockey team had a 1 -1 draw with Appleby.   The Alumni Soccer Team defeated the present Senior Boys’ team to take the first ever Alumni Soccer Trophy.  The Alumni Basketball game with alumni and present players on mixed teams provided an exciting game with the White squad winning the gold medals. The coaches were exceptional, and we would like to thank them for their commitment to their teams and for helping to make HSC’s Homecoming a resounding success. READ MORE


Tree Dedication at Homecoming


Homecoming saw the dedication of three trees and plaques in the newly naturalized Carolinian Arbour on the southwest campus.

Two smooth serviceberry trees Amelanchior laevis were dedicated to honour the graduation of Emmaline (’09) and Katherine (’06) Houston, with father Nick in attendance. A family dedication will be arranged for later.

About 14 members of the Grad Class of ’09 attended to see the dedication of a large red oak Quercus rubra donated as part of their grad gift to the College. This tree will be an anchor specimen for future extension of the naturalized area.

Plans are being developed to provide a cross-country running path around the campus, with naturalized savannah vegetation (spaced native trees with native grasses and wildflowers) bordering both sides. This path will provide a more aesthetic environment for training, add colour, diversity and habitat to the campus, and offset some of our College’s carbon footprint. Earth Day 2010 will be focused on student participation in this venture.

Anyone wishing to donate a tree as a memorial or to honour a member of our College community can contact Dr. Moffatt by e-mail at moffatt@hsc.on.ca.


News from the Admissions Office

For parents who wish to enroll an additional child for September 2010, the Admissions Office is now accepting applications.

As we often experience wait lists in Grades 7 - 12 and may have limited space in other grades, you are encouraged to begin this process early in the school year.

If you are interested in learning more about the scholarship opportunities (for current Grade 8 students entering Grade 9 and new students entering Grades 9 - 11), please visit our website.

Lastly, you are encouraged to share the Open House details with friends and colleagues who have shown an interest in HSC.

We rely heavily on “word of mouth” advertising to sustain and grow enrolment and your support is very much appreciated.

Please feel free to contact the Admissions Office if you have any questions.


HSC Partnership Program - Check Out the Fantastic Benefits and Services!



The HSC Partnership Program is in full swing with more than 18 registered partners to date!  Open to all HSC current parents, alumni, staff and faculty, as well as friends and family, the Partnership Program is designed to help us better connect to each other. 

All of these partners offer discounted services to the extended HSC community, as well as donations back to the College.  It’s a win-win situation!  All revenues from the program will directly support our students across all four schools of the College.

We encourage you to take a look at the fantastic services and benefits all of our partners are offering by visiting www.hsc.on.ca/partnerships/partnerships  For more information regarding this program, please contact Kim Shippey, Advancement Manager at 905-389-1367 ext. 107 or email kim.shippey@hsc.on.ca

We are pleased to highlight the following partners:



113 Lakeshore Road West
Oakville, Ontario
L6K 1E2
Tel: 905-337-7732
Fax: 905-337-7745
Email: nancy@quirkyspecs.com
www.quirkyspecs.com

Courtesy of Nancy Smart and David Beaman, Current and Alumni HSC Parents. Whether you are ready to go wild and crazy, or sophisticated and elegant, QUIRKY Specs Fun and Fabulous Reading Glasses are designed for wearers who demand distinctive, high quality reading glasses that express their personality. The low cost allows you to own several pairs to coordinate with every outfit and mood. The best part is visiting the store, trying different styles, choosing what you love and taking them home. These are not your drug store glasses.

Benefit to HSC:
Anyone affiliated with HSC will receive 10% off their purchase of Reading Glasses, plus Quirky Specs will also donate 10% of the purchase price to HSC’s Excelsior Annual Giving Campaign.



Tel: 905-332-4111
Fax: 905-639=2782
www.burlingtonbob.com

Courtesty of Bob Van de Vrande, Current HSC Parent.  Bob Van de Vrande, Broker with Sutton Group Results Realty Inc is here to help you “find your dream home”.  Sutton Group covers a wide geographical area, which includes Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Flamborough, Waterdown, Dundas, Ancaster, Grimbsy and beyond, with new properties listed every day.

Benefit to HSC:
Bob Van de Vrande, Broker with Sutton Group Results Realty Inc. will contribute $1,000 to the Excelsior Annual Giving Campaign from the purchase or sale of any property through Bob Van de Vrande.  The HSC affiliation must be referenced at the initial contract signing.


Solutions Into Motion Limited
601 Tradewind Drive, Unit 4
Ancaster, ON  L9G 4V5
Tel:  1-866-868-7225
Fax: 1-888-524-1110
www.solutionsintomotion.com

Trackem provides safety and security for your family and most valued possessions.  Protect what’s most important to you, while granting teens the freedom they desire.  System 55 is a personal or family version of Canada’s most popular business tracking application – Trackem Plus.  This web based GPS tracking application was designed with teen driver safety in mind.  By installing a small device in your vehicle, for pennies a day parents see easy to read speed, direction and GPS location data, which is accessible anytime, anywhere through their web browser or mobile handset.

Benefit to HSC:
Exclusive offer to all those affiliated with HSC:  save $50 off the hardware retail price, plus Solutions into Motion Limited will also donate $50 of every GPS unit sold, to the HSC Excelsior Annual Giving Campaign.


720 Guelph Line, Suite 101
Burlington, ON L7R 4E2
Phone: 905-637-6377
1-888-671-6999
Fax: 905-637-2264
Email: keith@wdgems.com
www.customjewellery.com

Courtesy of Keith Williams, Williams Distinctive Gems provides a unique, private showroom, combined with a “by appointment only” policy which allows you to select from a vast inventory of exquisite diamonds and jewellery.  Williams Distinctive Gems specializes in custom design, with a friendly, unrushed and naturally-lit environment. 

Benefit to HSC:
Williams Distinctive Gems is pleased to donate 10% of all sales in support of HSC’s  Excelsior Annual Giving Campaign.


Campus Store Update


We trust you have enjoyed the recent long weekend and have had an exciting start to the school year.  We would like to thank you for your continued patronage.  Please don’t hesitate to drop by and check out our newest apparel and gifts (hoodies, t-shirts, HSC coffee mugs, College rings and much more)!

In our ‘Prep for Winter Dress’ event we are offering a 15% discount on apparel purchases of  $75 of more through the end of October.  As well HSC turtle necks have been marked down 25% and may be included within the purchase offer.  Please see store staff for details.

Student, Parent and Staff Survey
Over the past two years we completed a survey of each of the primary user groups of the Campus Store.  The surveys were open to Middle and Senior Schools students, parents as well as faculty and staff.  The survey elements were designed to reflect the general perceptions of store products, programs and services.  Satisfaction and level of importance were evaluated for selected elements.  User comments and suggestions were encouraged within each section of the respective surveys. 

A total of 505 surveys were completed.  Generally the responses were favourable across all survey elements within the respondent groups.

Over 90% of all respondents were satisfied with overall Campus Store programs and services. 76% of students, 74% of staff members and 35% of parents noted a good to excellent level of satisfaction.

Over 88% of all respondents were satisfied with overall Campus Store products. 67% of students, 73% of staff members and 25% of parents noted a good to excellent level of satisfaction. 

Click here for the detailed results.

The data received in the respective surveys has allowed us to better understand the importance of our approach to customer service and communications.  The data has enabled us to implement changes to our product offerings (such as healthy snacks) and better understand our user preferences.

Thank you for your participation and assistance in shaping the future of the Campus Store products, programs and services at HSC.  Please don’t hesitate to contact us with further suggestion or comments.

Crescendo Concert Series and the Teachers Credit Union – A Natural Fit

Season Partner

The Crescendo Concert Series, entering its 22nd season, is pleased to announce that the Teachers Credit Union is the 2009-2010 Series Presenting Sponsor.

“For the Teachers Credit Union, a partnership with Hillfield Strathallan College is a natural fit as we too believe in the importance of a strong education”, said Rachel Milan, Director, Marketing & Community Investment for the Teachers Credit Union.  “Student financial literacy is very important to us and we believe that an early understanding of positive financial habits is the key to a successful and prosperous future.  We are so pleased to support this outstanding Concert Series and one of Canada’s finest independent schools.”  Visit www.teacherscu.on.ca and look for their Teen’s Financial Network link called “NCharge.”

With the help of a dedicated group of volunteers and HSC staff, three magical musical evenings are presented each season.  The Crescendo Concert Series is thrilled to announce the 2009-2010 season lineup featuring:

A Crescendo of Applause to our Evening Partners


Quartetto Gelato
Friday October 30, 2009

Lunch at Allen’s with Murray McLaughlin, Ian Thomas,
Cindy Church and Marc Jordan

Friday February 5, 2010

Laila Biali Trio with Guido Basso
Friday April 9, 2010


Support of the Crescendo Concert Series helps fund HSC’s unique Arts Scholarship. The Arts Scholarship is awarded to an outstanding high school student so he/she can continue and expand his/her artistic studies.  Liz Loughrey, a 14-year-old singer-songwriter, is the 2009 HSC Arts Scholarship recipient.  She has already achieved many career highlights, most notably winning the top prize at the Kawai 2007 North American talent competition ‘Searching for a Star’, where she impressed the audience and judges with her strong singing voice and dance background.

Please click here to order tickets for the Crescendo Concert Series or call 905-389-1367, ext. 201.

‘A Timeless Gift Draw’

The HSC Alumni Association is proud to present "A Timeless Draw" in support of the HSC Scholarship and Awards program. 

Three high-end luxury items have been donated by HSC alumni and parents including an 18K Gold Piaget Estate Watch, a 50" Panasonic Plasma TV, and a Nintendo Wii with sports pack. 

With only 1,000 tickets being sold you will want to run, not walk, to the HSC Campus Store to ensure you have secured your shot at these fabulous prizes.

Tickets are 1 for $20.00 or 6 for $100.00. The draw will be held at the Carol Service After Party, in Lawson Hall, on Thursday, December 17, 2009 at 6:00 p.m.

For more details, draw rules, and photos of the prizes please Click here.

Net proceeds will be transferred to the HSC Endowment Fund in support of the College’s Scholarships and Awards Program.


HSC PA Staff Appreciation Dinner October 29, 2009: Your assistance requested!

WE WISH TO EXTEND “ACRES” OF THANKS TO OUR HSC STAFF!

The HSC Parents’ Association is once again hosting the Annual Staff Appreciation Dinner on Thursday, October 29, 2009.  It is a wonderful opportunity to express our heartfelt thanks to a supportive and dynamic community of teachers, bus, maintenance, office and kitchen staff who teach and care for our children daily.

“Farm fresh foods to table” is our theme for this year.  All parents and guardians are welcome to contribute a dish encompassing this theme.  If instead you would prefer to donate a small monetary contribution, we will direct it towards any uncommitted dishes and beverages. In keeping with our allergen policy, PLEASE NO NUTS OR SHELL FISH INGREDIENTS.

All contributions may be delivered Thursday, October 29, 2009 to the kitchen in Lawson Hall any time prior to 4:00 p.m., except if food items need to be refrigerated. Items that require refrigeration should be delivered after 1:30 p.m. Please make sure your dish is labeled and any serving instructions for are included. Dishes, crockpots etc. may be picked up the following day from the kitchen.

You may contact Rebecca Morison at 905-331-9242 or by e-mail at rlmorison@bluenexus.com or Jodi Harrison at 905-332-5026 or by e-mail at jodih@live.ca if you have any questions.



HSC,
Hamilton Ti-cats and United way…a winning combination!

On Saturday October 31, 2009 Halloween day, the Ti-Cats are hosting the Saskatchewan Roughriders in their final home game of the season. Kick-off is at 2:00 p.m. at Ivor Wynne Stadium. HSC is partnering with the Ti-Cats. We have the special opportunity of offering tickets at a discounted price, as well as having $15 from every ticket donated to the United Way on our behalf. What a great opportunity to cheer on the Cats, spend an afternoon with your HSC family, and help support the United Way!

If interested, please click here to fill out the order form and return it to HSC in a sealed envelope with your student's name and Tutorial/Home Form on the outside. Payment can be made by credit card or cheque only, please do not send cash. Forms will be passed on to the Tiger Cats ticket sales department, and they will handle the rest. Please be sure to include your email address, as you will receive an email confirming your purchase and including your tickets. If you forget your email address, the Ti-Cats may need to contact you to confirm your purchase and arrange for you to get your tickets.

In addition, all students that come to the game in a Halloween costume will have the opportunity to participate in an on-field pre-game and halftime show and will also be eligible to win prizes throughout the game.

Order forms are due back to HSC by Monday, October 26 in order to guarantee your seat.

This will be a very fun afternoon for everyone that comes, so let's show our HSC and Ti-Cat Pride on October 31. For more information, please do not hesitate to contact Mrs. Adrienne Davidson at 905-389-1367, ext. 162 or by e-mail at adrienne.davidson@hsc.on.ca.


Senior School Production of Little Women

Mark the dates! The Senior School invites you to our family holiday musical production of Little Women; performance dates are December 3rd, 4th and 5th! Details to follow.


Nurse’s Notes on H1N1 and influenza-like illness


The Key Points:

  • Please pay attention to future HSC communications for more information regarding H1N1 and influenza-like illness.
  • Symptoms to be concerned about: Cough AND fever, as well as possible, sore throat, aches/pains and weakness. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea may be present, especially in those under five years of age.
  • Should a student present with these symptoms, while at school, they should be seen immediately by the school nurse. Anyone with a cough AND fever will be kept in isolation and sent home.
  • If a students presents with a cough AND fever while at home, they are not to return for school until they have been fever-free (without the use of medications) for at least 24 hours. Those with a cough can return to school, so long as the fever is gone and they generally feel well.
  • Those with confirmed H1N1 will require a letter from their doctor allowing them to return to school.
  • The school community is encouraged to follow proper “cough etiquette”, as well as, proper hand hygiene.
  • Please pay attention to future HSC communications for more information regarding H1N1 and influenza-like illness.


Headmaster's presentation at the annual Corporation Meeting, September 22, 2009

Dr. Matthew's presentation from the annual Corporation Meeting held this past September has been posted to the College's website.
Click here to view his presentation.

 


Read Headmaster's Chapel addresses here

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