February 2025

Belonging Matters

Nicole Cozier, Executive Director of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging

Belonging may seem to some like the latest “it” concept, but research shows that belonging is essential for student wellbeing and success. When students truly belong, they engage more fully, take risks in their learning and deepen resilience. Without it, they disconnect, struggle or seek belonging elsewhere — often in harmful spaces that offer a false sense of connection. In a time when the world feels increasingly fractured, the work of belonging is more important than ever. 

As educators, we have a responsibility to ensure that all students find real, healthy belonging in communities that uplift and support them. 

At Havergal, that means that belonging isn’t a nice-to-have; it’s a necessity and a priority practice embedded in every part of school life so students feel valued not just for what they achieve, but for who they are. 

This commitment is evident in Junior and Upper School Cultural Prayers when students share their personal histories, languages and traditions, offering their peers a window into their identities and experiences and deepening their sense of pride in who they are and how they shape our school.

Through the development of community agreements, our Middle School students co-create commitments to define how they want to learn, lead and support one another throughout the year.

In the Upper School, Affinity Groups and Alliance Spaces help students connect within and across identity groups, forming deep relationships built on shared experiences and mutual respect. Most recently, in the Grade 11 retreat on authenticity, students explored what it means to show up as their true selves and how they can create spaces where others feel safe enough to do the same.

These are just a few of the ways we centre belonging every day.

This work is mission critical. Belonging isn’t about fitting in — it’s about feeling safe enough to stand out, take risks and develop confidence in one’s own voice. This work allows our students to stretch, grow and thrive, knowing — as my colleague and collaborator, Krista Koekkoek wrote — that they are enough, exactly as they are, and Havergal is better because of them.

And when they step into the world, that deep sense of belonging will empower them to lead with courage, create spaces that uplift others and be prepared to make a difference.

Indigenous Ways of Being and Knowing in Grade 5/6 Integrated Arts

Rachel Read, Junior School Integrated Arts Teacher, and Marissa Magneson, Cree-Métis Artist Educator

We are called, as individuals and as a school community, to build relationships and understandings with all cultures in our school community, Turtle Island and beyond. These diverse, vibrant and contemporary cultures build the vibrant community and culture of Havergal College. Within the Grade 5 and 6 Integrated Arts program, we have made Indigenous Ways of Being and Knowing a central part of our student experience through Indigenous Arts and Culture. Integrated Arts is founded in a “culture-first” pedagogy of arts education where music, dance, drama and visual arts flow from a deeper understanding of culture. 

We have been fortunate to work with Indigenous artists who introduce cultural understandings alongside specific artistic or cultural expertise. Cree-Métis artist educator Marissa Magneson teaches the culture, history, music and art-making of the Métis; Métis Firekeeper Sabastian Koprich shares cultural teachings of the sacred fire and Indigenous ceremonies; and Cree-Métis composer and songwriter Mathew Magneson shares music as a form of personal expression. 

This two-year relationship begins with cultural teachings and protocols rooted in reciprocity with the land as an introduction to Métis artistic practices, such as bead-art painting techniques inspired by Christi Belcourt. Students follow this learning with Métis beading skills, which culminates in Grade 6 students designing, crafting and beading their own deer-hide moccasins. This activity is a reflection of their learning and ongoing journey of walking in a good way in partnership with Indigenous Peoples and the land. 

Alongside this learning, students experience traditions and culture. This includes musical performances from our students, led by Marissa, and performances from Mathew at school assemblies and during class. In Grade 5, students participate in a full moon ceremony and a sacred fire on the land with Marissa and Sabastian in honour of grandmother moon.

Students are encouraged to explore and reflect on their personal stories and experiences to better understand their own rich and diverse heritage and personal identities. At Havergal, it is important that students feel a sense of belonging; that they feel seen, safe and equipped with the tools that allow them to thrive while learning about and exploring the diversity of each other, our community and beyond. Indigenous Ways of Being and Knowing provides students the time and space to explore these concepts in authentic and meaningful ways while further developing reciprocal relationships with one another, our school community and beyond.

Building Belonging Across the Globe

Alexandra Zourntos, Associate Director of Admissions

Havergal is known for its strong sense of community and belonging, an intangible yet ever-present force that resonates in our hallways and classrooms as well as in the relationships we cultivate. We reflect this core value in our thoughtful and comprehensive Boarding admissions process, which takes into account the entire family. We take great pride in designing and executing a process that ensures every family feels welcomed and is seamlessly integrated into our community.

When working with Boarding families, we recognize the importance of personalizing each interaction. We do this by taking the time to understand the family’s dynamics, cultural practices and specific needs, ensuring we provide the necessary support for a smooth academic, social and emotional transition. This strong foundation of trust is crucial in fostering a sense of belonging for students and their families once admitted.

The admissions process at Havergal is truly a team effort, with contributions from various departments working together on decision-making and onboarding. Whenever possible, we connect prospective families with current Boarding families, who share their personal experiences and provide a range of resources before the student’s arrival, from insights on our culture and values to helpful packing tips. Once the student arrives, our dedicated Boarding staff works closely with families to ensure they feel fully supported. From orientation and mentoring programs to regular check-ins, we focus on helping students adjust academically and socially, empowering them to thrive in our vibrant community.

While every step of our process is rewarding, some moments stand out as particularly meaningful. One of our favourites is connecting with parents after enrolment and hearing, through their eyes, how much their daughter has flourished. The relationships we have with our Boarding families continue long after graduation, reflecting the strong, welcoming community that Havergal is known for.

Parent Survey Coming Soon

Share Your Feedback 

This spring, parents will have an opportunity to share their feedback and experiences with Havergal via a parent satisfaction survey, conducted on our behalf by Independent School Management. The survey is part of our commitment to ongoing improvement and is aligned with our Empowering Excellence strategic plan.

The purpose of the survey is to gather feedback to enrich our programs and learning environment by collecting your thoughts on a variety of topics such as our academic and co-curricular programs, campus, etc.

In the coming weeks, you will receive an email with more information with one survey issued per household (we ask parents to complete it together, where possible). We look forward to hearing your voice and shaping the future of Havergal together!

Get Your Gator Gala Tickets Today

Sales Close March 10! 

Do you have your tickets to Kaleidoscope of Cultures, the theme of this year’s Gator Gala? Tickets are $165 each for all Upper and Middle School students and their adult guests (one parent or guardian per student) to enjoy a night full of fun, featuring a DJ, a bubble tea station, mocktails, a 360-degree photo booth and much more! 

Ticket sales are now open — purchase your tickets here until March 10!

Can you donate to the Gator Gala Silent Auction or to the event swag bags? 
The auction offers something for everyone, with all proceeds going to the HCPA to support community engagement initiatives and identified school priorities. Amazing silent auction items include tickets to sporting events and concerts, art, jewelry and unique experiences like tours or behind-the-scenes opportunities at workplaces or venues. If you would like to make a donation to the Gator Gala Silent Auction, please contact Jenn Ocampo-King at [email protected] or Michelle Yang at [email protected]. Thank you for your support!

Swag bags are a fan favourite of Gator Gala attendees. If you would like to help take this year’s swag bags to the next level, please consider a donation. We are seeking donations of items, money or help in securing wholesale-priced items to create an unforgettable experience. Here’s how you can contribute:

If you’re part of a local business, we’d be thrilled to explore collaboration opportunities.

Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference. For more info or questions, contact Christine Kwok at [email protected].

Thank you for your support — we look forward to a fantastic Gator Gala 2025!

HCPA Nominations for 2025-26

Later this month we’ll begin the 2025-26 Havergal College Parent Association (HCPA) nomination process. This is a great opportunity to get more involved with the school and join our dynamic, fun and engaging parent leadership team! Check your inbox for an email that was sent out mid-February listing all open positions. 

We’re committed to an open, transparent and inclusive process and we encourage you to self-nominate. In the meantime, for more information on our process, please reach out to the HCPA Co-Chairs ([email protected]).

HCPA Volunteering Video
You can learn more about volunteering with the HCPA in this video, featuring HCPA Vice Chair Alison Markowitz, who speaks about her positive experiences volunteering at Havergal.

Junior School A-mazing Race

Save the Date: Sunday, May 4

The A-mazing Race is always one of the highlights of the year for our Junior School families — and this year will be no different! On Sunday, May 4, students and their partners (an adult over the age of 21) will join us on Havergal’s campus (outside, if weather permits) to engage in friendly competition with their House teams. In addition to participating in a series of games and challenges, participants will also enjoy snacks and refreshments, and — most importantly — have fun while connecting with other members of our JS community. 

More details to come.

Moms’ Night Out

Save the Date: Thursday, May 22

Mark your calendars for the HCPA’s Moms’ Night Out (MNO) on Thursday, May 22. This year, our organizers are planning something a little different for this popular annual event — you won’t want to miss it! One thing that will stay the same is that the evening will feature food, drinks and the opportunity to catch up with friends, old and new. Watch for the official invitation in early April. 

Natasha Teja

Grade 6 Homeroom Teacher

With more than 15 years of experience in the field of education, Natasha Teja is a dedicated and passionate Grade 6 teacher who recently joined Havergal’s Junior School. Over the years, she has earned a reputation for fostering an inclusive and nurturing learning environment, where every student feels valued and supported.

Ms. Teja makes it a priority to ensure that all students in her classroom feel included and respected. By incorporating diverse perspectives into lesson plans and encouraging open discussions, she creates a classroom atmosphere that celebrates individuality and promotes mutual understanding. Students are encouraged to share their thoughts and experiences, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Beyond the classroom, Ms. Teja plays an active role in organizing educational trips and activities that enrich the students’ learning experiences. One notable trip she is helping to plan is a visit to the Holocaust Museum in Toronto. This important excursion provides students with a profound understanding of history and the lessons of tolerance and empathy. Through thoughtful preparation and discussions, she ensures that students are emotionally and intellectually prepared for the visit, making it a meaningful and impactful experience.

Outside of teaching, Ms. Teja enjoys a variety of hobbies and activities that contribute to a well-rounded life. She has recently started skiing and loves spending a snowy weekend on the slopes.

She cherishes time spent with family, which includes a supportive husband and her six-year-old daughter, both of whom share a love for adventure and learning.

In joining the Havergal community this past fall, Ms. Teja brings a wealth of experience, a commitment to inclusive education and a passion for lifelong learning that inspires students and colleagues alike.