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Headmaster's Holiday Greeting
As is our tradition, we will gather to celebrate the conclusion of the Fall term at our annual Carol Service taking place this year on Thursday, December 17, beginning at 4:00 p.m. Bringing back hundreds of alumni, the Carol Service embodies our strong sense of community, as well as our commitment to a number of time-honoured traditions. For me, the exuberance of the student body in the final minutes of the Carol Service is what makes this event so moving and memorable.
On behalf of the faculty and staff of Hillfield Strathallan College, as well as the Board of Governors and Board of Trustees, I would like to extend the warmest of holiday greetings to our current students and their families. May you have a relaxing and thoroughly enjoyable holiday. May you find the opportunity to enjoy the company of friends and family, and may you be filled with the peace and joy that characterize this holy time of the year. We look forward to welcoming you back when classes resume on January 4, 2010.
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Upcoming Events |
December 17, 2009
Carol Service
December 18 – January 3, 2010
College Closed
Office Hours on December 18, 21 & 22
8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Classes Resume on Monday, January 4, 2010
January 15, 2010
Parents’ Association Student-to-Student Clothing Sale
3:00 – 5:30 p.m.
Middle School Parent-Teacher Interviews
January 18, 2010 (
7:00 – 9:00 p.m. )
January 19, 2010 (
4:00 – 6:00 p.m.)
January 20, 2010 (
4:00 – 6:00 p.m.)
January 19, 2010
Senior School Stepping Up Night:
Course Selection
7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
January 20, 2010
Montessori Parents’ Night
(M3-9) 7:30 p.m.
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MS Read-a-Thon
This fall, the College participated in the MS Read-A-Thon. While this event encouraged our students’ love of reading, it also raised funds and awareness for this disease of the central nervous system that impacts on the lives of up to 75,000 Canadians. More than $20,000 was raised in support of future research including the Paediatric MS Clinic at the Hospital for Sick Children.
Students were asked to keep track of the “minutes read” and seek sponsorship from friends and family members for their efforts. This project was an excellent example of student leadership at work and what can be accomplished with teamwork!
The Junior School Student Life Committee provided information to the students during an assembly. They also put on a short skit about MS and the Read-A-Thon to stimulate interest. Senior School students visited some of the classrooms to read to Junior School students and boost their overall totals.
Montessori parent and alumni Justine Zurini (Fedak)’89 spoke at a College-wide chapel to kick off the fundraising effort. Justine spoke to the students about the challenges of living with MS and how the disease impacts on the whole family. She challenged the students to try and raise $20,000 and personally jump-started the campaign with a $1,000 donation. Later Justine visited the Montessori school to speak to the students, providing them with valuable insight and a point of reference to begin their fundraising efforts.
In the Middle School, the initiative was spearheaded by the Wellness Committee. Students on the Wellness Committee took a two-pronged approach using a skit presentation and lunchtime announcements to promote awareness; and a “classroom challenge” to promote involvement and track weekly results. Through their efforts this committee encouraged close to 100% participation in the Middle School and helped raise $9,000.
On Thursday, November 12 the College participated in a “comfy pyjamas” alternate dress day to celebrate the successful completion of this fundraising endeavour.
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Little Women – The Musical!
Contributed by Mr. Jeremy W. Johnston, Director of “Little Women: The Musical”
So much work, so much time and so much energy goes into producing an engaging and polished musical. So many obstacles, so many challenges and so many disappointments define the months and weeks leading up to a performance. So many parts and pieces need to be orchestrated: the music, the lighting and the promotion, the sound and the sets, the costumes, casting, and choreography.....just to name a few.
Why do we do it? We do it because there is an elation that comes when obstacles have been overcome, when audiences are amazed, when cast and crew are proud of a job very well done.
But we also do it because it is a rare opportunity to not only create something beautiful, but to create something beautiful as a community. Musical productions are a community event, a community creation. So many people have stepped up to make this show a success: faculty, parents and volunteers, staff and students—all have left an indelible mark on the success of Little Women.
Little Women was produced not by a professional theatre company, but by a school. The show was for them, their learning, and their growth. And, the show was ultimately created by students; students who memorized lines, lyrics and movements; students who designed, built and lugged sets; students who worked on costumes and sound effects. All this was done while they wrote tests, did homework, and attended class. I am exceedingly proud of their accomplishments. They have proven their mettle as the finest cast and crew I have ever had the privilege to work with. For each of them I hope this production was a fun, illuminating and challenging experience. An experience that will be remembered fondly for years to come.
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By all accounts, Canadiana Winterfest was a huge success! The day was filled with lots of fun, including kids’ crafts, pictures with Santa and a visit from the Bulldog’s Mascot Bruiser. Our talented HSC student performers and musicians provided spirited entertainment in the Artsplex.
Over 300 people enjoyed our pancake breakfast with live entertainment from Dan McVeigh. Crepe makers, Dr. Matthews, Mark Stirling, Dean Mosca and Jeff Paikin ’80 provided delicious treats and entertainment throughout the day.
There were many early holiday shopping opportunities at Winterfest, with over 25 vendors displaying their wares, and holiday greenery being offered for the first time. Over 150 items were offered at the Penny Sale. Thank you to all who donated items and to those who participated in this fun event.
HSC Animals were a popular item! There are still a few remaining and will be sold at our next Student-to-Student Clothing Sale on January 15, 2010.
The Winter’s Best Raffle Winners were:
Ray Hammond: Wii game system with 2 games; Value $510.00
Steve Dryden: Bean bag chair, DVD player, DVD selection, Kernels popcorn basket. Value $850.00
Chris Kwiecen: Express Vu Satellite Dish with hi-def, duo-tuner, PVR: Value $600.00
Dr. Greg Burton: Danby 30 Bottle Wine Fridge fully stocked with 31 bottles of wine; Value $1000.00
Special thanks to all the volunteers and donors who made the day possible. Approximately $10,000 was raised by HSC families at Winterfest in support of our children’s learning environment.
Click here for more information about other Parents’ Association initiatives.
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Hillfield Strathallan College Celebrates the Season by Giving
Community service and charitable fundraising are long standing traditions at HSC. Tied to the College’s Vision to inspire students to reach their full potential and to better the world around them, these endeavours play a key role in fulfilling that vision. Read on to learn more about the fundraising activities of our students – they will inspire you!
The Montessori, Junior and Senior Schools all participated in toy drives this year. The Montessori toy drive is in support of Wesley Urban Ministries. Wesley Urban Ministries works with the poor, the marginalized and those who are lost and alone. Rather than simply providing quick hand-outs which serve only to address immediate needs, Wesley Urban provides people of all ages with a ‘hand-up’ so that they can break the cycle of poverty and achieve a real measure of success. Read more
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Middle School Students Reach Out to New Friends
Students serving on the Community Outreach Committee in the Middle School are involved in a very interesting outreach project in partnership with Idlewyld Manor a long-term care facility on the west mountain. . The students have discovered that they don’t have to travel very far to find someone they can relate to.
Every Wednesday afternoon the students visit the Manor to participate in activities, such as story-telling, crafts and baking, that they organize with the assistance of their faculty advisor, Mr. Logan.
Grade 8 student, Samantha Nicholls shares her experience. “I like to go to the nursing home because most of the seniors don’t get to see their family that often, or at all. If you go and help, talk, and just make them feel comfortable, hopefully they enjoy our company and they get to do things. We’re kind of like a big family. I think it is an awesome way to get involved in our community and if you can put a smile on someone’s face- that is amazing!”
During last week’s story time, the students discovered an HSC connection. Resident Mrs. Jean Webster served as President of the Parents’ Association in 1956 and 1957. Jean’s husband Dr. William Webster served as the College’s doctor and both their children are alumni of the College – William ’59 and Kimberly ’76. Mrs. Webster spoke fondly of her days at the College and remembers working closely with then Headmaster, Lieutenant Colonel John P. Page.
The residents look forward to their weekly visits with the students. “It’s a treat spending time with the children”, said resident Ina, a masterful story teller. Ina told two charming stories that delighted seniors and students alike. Her warmth and ease encouraged the others to share.
Upcoming activities include a special Christmas craft day when students and residents will be making Christmas cards and small Christmas trees.
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Last Minute Christmas Gift Ideas
Are you still looking for some last minute Christmas gift ideas? Why not consider the HSC Tribute Program? This is a great way to say thank you to that special teacher while supporting HSC. Click here for details.
Please also consider supporting our valued members of the HSC Partnership Program. Click here for more information.
As we approach the end of 2009 and you wish to help lessen your tax bill, consider a donation towards the Excelsior Annual Giving Campaign. Tax receipts can be issued for 2009 for any eligible donation made before December 31, 2009. Contact the Advancement Office at 905-389-1367, ext. 161or e-mail laurie.lewis@hsc.on.ca to help process your donation.
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Join us for the Hillfield Strathallan College Annual Carol Service on Thursday, December 17, 2009 beginning at 4:00 p.m. in the Page Gym. A beautiful way to launch the holiday season, this long-standing and beloved tradition creates lasting memories for all. Please note seating is limited. A simulcast of the service will be provided in Lawson Hall for overflow guests.
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HSC-bay Can Help Your Business Reach Thousands!
How can you showcase your business or service to thousands of people with no additional cost to you? HSC-bay online! The HSC Parents’ Association is pleased to present its second online auction scheduled to open on Friday, February 5, 2010 and close on Sunday, February 21, 2010. As a value-added bonus, donors of items or services valued at $250 or more will be recognized on the HSC-bay website by way of a business card advertisement with a link to your own website.
The 2009 HSC-bay online saw over 300 registered bidders and averaged 30,000 views per page. This is a unique opportunity to reach your target market and realize a return on your investment. All funds raised through HSC-bay are directed to benefit our students and enhance their learning environment, both inside and outside the classroom.
A tax receipt will be issued by HSC, post event, for all eligible donations. Please consider donating an item or service to the HSC-bay online auction today! Contact Kim Shippey, Advancement Manager at 905-389-1367, ext. 107 or e-mail kim.shippey@hsc.on.ca.
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Are you running out of ideas for holiday gifts? Here’s an idea - think CRESCENDO!
Give the gift of music by purchasing tickets for the upcoming Crescendo Concerts and at the same time you will generously support the HSC Arts Scholarship.
Treat your family, friends or business associates to an amazing evening of brilliant music that is “pure,
polished perfection”!
Lunch at Allen’s – Friday, February 5, 2010 at 8:00 p.m.
Laila Biali Trio with Guido Basso – Friday, April 9, 2010 at 8:00 p.m.
Adults: $30.00
Seniors: $25.00
Students: $20.00
To order tickets call 905-389-1367, ext. 201 or order online at www.hsc.on.ca/crescendo
Seasons Greetings and Happy Holidays
The Crescendo Concerts Series Committee
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Nurse’s Notes on H1N1 and influenza-like illness
Nurse’s Notes on H1N1 and influenza-like illness
The Key Points:
- Symptoms to be concerned about: cough AND fever, as well as the possibility of sore throat, aches/pains and weakness. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea may be evident, 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 student presents with a cough AND fever while at home, or has a confirmed case of H1N1 they are not to return to 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 feel generally well. However, we ask that those who have been away due to H1N1 and/or influenza-like illness see a school nurse upon return.
- The school community is encouraged to follow proper “cough etiquette”, as well as proper hand hygiene.
Please look for future HSC communications with more information regarding H1N1 and influenza-like illness.
Click here for the Headmaster's latest update on H1N1.
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