Author: bvg
Parent Association Nomination 2026 – Merry Market Co-ordinator
Home page, Parent Association
The Bayview Glen Parent Association is currently accepting nominations for one of the Merry Market Co-ordinator positions for the term commencing May 1, 2026.
All nominations must be submitted no later than March 31, 2026.
Please download the nomination form here (PDF).
To submit completed forms or for further information, please contact pavicepresident@bayviewglen.ca.
Mapping Our World: Building Connections Through Inquiry in Preschool
Bayview Glen News, Newsletters and Publications, Preschool, The Glen
Written by Sarah Dillane and Terry Boyce,
BG3A Educators
As the saying goes, you have to walk before you run, and in preschool, this idea is fully embraced. Often, the power of everyday materials is taken for granted. BG3A began the year with the intention of learning the Language of Paper, a medium that impacts nearly every aspect of our lives. Paper was explored in many ways and eventually led the group in an unexpected direction, charting a new course on their map of learning.
A paper map of local bike lanes was added to the classroom materials, and soon opened a rich exploration of maps and map-making, sparking curiosity and inquiry. Interest evolved into representing places and spaces, prompting reflection on the locations that held special meaning to us and how each map told a story about how the world was seen and valued. Maps of Toronto, Durham Region, Ontario Treaties, Canada, and the world were eventually explored, inviting thoughtful reflection on the land and our place within it. Children shared stories of places they had visited or where family members live. Marks, drawings, and conversations transformed the maps into a living record of the classroom’s diverse experiences, showing that while homes and travels may differ, we are all connected and part of something bigger.
Children created their own maps, experimenting with lines, symbols, and colour to represent places and spaces important to them. These personal creations reflected the Reggio belief in the “hundred languages of children,” highlighting the many ways children can express ideas, thoughts, and understanding beyond words. Each child used their own style and choices to show what was meaningful to them, making their maps a unique form of expression.
Over time, these ideas came together in a three-dimensional topographic mural, with shared discussions guiding which landmarks to include, such as the CN Tower, Niagara Falls, Ripley’s Aquarium, and Bayview Glen, turning individual ideas into a map that tells the story of the whole community. Through trial and error, construction methods were explored and the project grew, with papier-mâché supporting the creation of structures and meaningful elements. Once the papier-mâché work was completed, it marked the start of an exciting journey into colour and light, as children studied reference photos and experimented with ways to bring their observations to life. The project offered opportunities for problem-solving, creative expression, and exploring spatial relationships, materials, and visual representation, inviting children to bring their ideas to life.
Throughout this ongoing inquiry, mapping connected children to one another, to their school, to their community and to the wider world. By honouring children’s ideas and allowing the project to evolve naturally, deep engagement, collaboration and a sense of identity and place were observed. In BG3, maps were not just about places, they became stories, connections and questions. This exploration shows how simple materials like paper can be transformed into complex ideas, turning curiosity into creation and reminding us that every idea can become a place worth exploring.
Beyond the Game: How the We Can Play Conference Empowered Student-Athletes
Alumni, Athletics, Bayview Glen News, Newsletters and Publications, The Glen, Upper School
Left to Right: Ella K. (Grade 11 Student), Rachel C. (Grade 10 Student), Nya P. (Grade 10 Student), Brandie Wilkerson,
Julia M. (Grade 10 Student), and Autumn C. (Grade 10 Student)
Written by Amanda Kwan,
Upper School Educator, Health and Physical Education
The We Can Play Conference at The York School provided an empowering experience for female student-athletes, leaving them with lessons that extend far beyond competition. Through honest conversations, personal stories, and shared experiences, students were encouraged to believe in themselves, embrace challenges, and commit to lifelong participation in sport and physical activity.
Hearing from guest speakers Carly Clarke (Head Coach of TMU Women’s Basketball and Team Canada Basketball) and Brandie Wilkerson (Olympic silver medalist in beach volleyball) allowed students to see that there is no single path to success in sport. They were inspired by the speakers’ contrasting journeys. Carly Clarke spoke about growing up immersed in sport and evolving into a coach and leader, while Brandie Wilkerson shared her experience of starting beach volleyball later than most elite athletes, yet rising to the top of her sport. For Autumn, who felt unsure of her athletic path, this message reinforced the belief that growth takes time and that hard work can still lead to success. She is now playing rep volleyball and embracing the journey.
A major takeaway from the conference was the importance of mindset. Students reflected on the idea that failure is not something to fear, but something to learn from. Rachel shared that the conference reinforced the message to “embrace failure as part of growth, keep pushing through adversity, and understand that you don’t always have to be the best player on the court.” This perspective helped her recognize that contributing to a team goes beyond individual performance and includes being supportive, resilient, and dependable.
Representation also played a powerful role in shaping student experiences. Seeing BIPOC women succeed as athletes, coaches, and leaders showed students that they belong in sport spaces. As Nya explained, the more women who are visible in sport, the more young girls will believe in themselves, take risks, and pursue opportunities without self-doubt. Carly Clarke’s discussion around confidence and applying for opportunities resonated strongly, encouraging students to step outside their comfort zones and stop limiting themselves before even trying.
Brandie Wilkerson’s openness about adversity left a lasting impression. She spoke candidly about public criticism following a widely broadcasted Olympic match and her decision to stand by her values without feeling the need to justify herself to others. Ella admired her resilience, courage, and commitment to doing what she believed was right, even in the face of backlash.
Another key message emphasized that success in sport is not limited to being the star player. Carly Clarke highlighted the importance of understanding team roles and “building the bridge” between teammates. Julia reflected on how leadership, effort, and positive team culture can be just as impactful as scoring points or highlight plays.
Overall, the We Can Play Conference left student-athletes inspired, confident, and empowered. They walked away with a renewed belief in their potential, a healthier perspective on failure, and a deeper understanding of how to contribute meaningfully to their teams. Most importantly, the experience reinforced that sport is about growth, connection, and lifelong participation.
Alumni Connections in Action: Inspiring Students and Engaging Graduates
Alumni, Bayview Glen News, Newsletters and Publications, The Glen, Upper School
Written by Daniella Brown (’10),
Director of Alumni Relations
This year, Bayview Glen hosted two Career Breakfasts that really highlighted the power of connecting Upper School students with alumni who are generous with their time, experiences, and career insights. Our most recent breakfast featured sisters Jordyn Listro (’13), a professional soccer player with Tampa Bay Sun FC, and Julia Listro (’17), Social Content Coordinator at Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment.
Jordyn joined us virtually from Florida, while Julia was here in person, which made for a dynamic conversation full of different perspectives. I had the pleasure of moderating the discussion, which dove into the realities of early professional life—both the wins and the challenges. Jordyn and Julia spoke openly about resilience, the value of hard work, and staying adaptable as goals shift. They reminded students that career paths are rarely straight lines and that being willing to pivot can really make a difference in long-term success. Their insights sparked thoughtful questions and meaningful dialogue with our students.
Our work connecting alumni and students doesn’t stop at school. Last month, the Alumni Relations team visited McMaster University in Hamilton and reconnected with our Bayview Glen alumni from the classes of 2013-2025 currently studying and working there. These visits are such a great way to hear about alumni experiences, celebrate their achievements, and strengthen their ongoing connection to Bayview Glen.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to continue our university outreach this spring, with visits planned to:
Western University – March 26
Carleton University – April 13
In addition, members of our team will be in Seattle from February 23 to 28. Make sure to reach out to me at dbrown@bayviewglen.ca if you’re interested in connecting!
We’re also gearing up for our May Alumni Reunion, so keep an eye out for more information in the coming months! I can’t wait to reconnect with more alumni, support their journeys, and celebrate the many pathways made possible through a Bayview Glen education.
Athletic Updates: CISAA & OFSAA Fall Championships
Athletics, Bayview Glen News, Newsletters and Publications, The Glen, Upper School
Written by Kevin Neville,
Director of Athletics, Upper School
What an amazing fall term for our Gryphon athletes!
Congratulations to all the teams and individuals who won medals, and thank you to the coaches for making these experiences possible.
CISAA Sr Boys DII Soccer
GOLD
CISAA Jr Boys DII Soccer
GOLD
CISAA Jr Boys DII Volleyball
GOLD
CISAA Sr Girls XC 5K – Brianna L.
GOLD
CISAA Novice Boys XC 3K – Kyle L.
SILVER
OFSAA Sr Tennis Open Mixed Doubles – Isabella W. & Luke B.
SILVER
Leading the Charge: Prep Athletics in Action
Athletics, Bayview Glen News, Newsletters and Publications, Prep School, The Glen
Written by Sofia F. and Ethan F.,
Heads of Athletics, Prep School Student Council
This year has been one of the most exciting for Athletics at the Prep, and as Heads of the Athletics Committee, we have been proud to help shape it. Sports have always meant a lot to both of us. They’ve taught us teamwork, perseverance, leadership, and how to bring energy to the people around us. Becoming Heads felt like the perfect opportunity to give that same experience back to the Prep community.
This year, our biggest focus has been strengthening the House programme and making sure it plays a meaningful, year-long role in the Prep. We’ve introduced monthly House competitions, giving every student the chance to try new things. From classic sports to new activities students haven’t tried before, our goal is to make participation fun, inclusive, and something the whole school looks forward to.
We have also increased the number of spirit-focussed events, encouraging students not just to compete, but to cheer each other on. Houses are earning points consistently throughout the year, and the race to the House Cup is more alive than it has been in a long time.
Another important part of our work has been improving communication around Athletics. With help from our committee members, we are making sure that every Gryphon is updated on scores, upcoming events, and more. Our newest addition, Gryphons of the Week, celebrates athletes from all three grades who demonstrate sportsmanship, dedication, and spirit, both on and off the field.
Overall, we hope the work we’re doing inspires more students to play, support each other, and take pride in being Gryphons. Whether you’re competing, coaching, managing, or cheering, you are part of what makes the Prep community so strong.
Growing Compassion in the Prep School
Bayview Glen News, Newsletters and Publications, Prep School, The Glen
The Impact of Philanthropy for Prepsters
Written by Emilie I., and Bianca M., Co-Heads of Community Outreach, Prep School Student Council
Making a Difference Has Made All the Difference
Written by Lizzie L., Tamira M., Claire M., and Bianca P., Members of the Campaign of Compassion Delivery Team
The Impact of Philanthropy for Prepsters
Written by Emilie I., and Bianca M.,
Co-Heads of Community Outreach, Prep School Student Council
Why is philanthropy important? It can help provide a sense of reality for many people, especially children and people around our age. Giving and seeing the impact you make on people’s lives can completely change your world view. It is a meaningful, and necessary part of life. Doing so without a thank you is much better than receiving acknowledgement. If you don’t receive a thank you, it allows you to truly give without doing it for a reward.
Why is this important for young people? In learning the importance of service, the next generation will become a more inclusive, respectful, and compassionate group who truly have the opportunity to make a difference. Service during youth builds confidence and character and can lead to stronger communities in the future. It can also create many life skills that will help people significantly in the future, including teamwork, leadership, collaboration, and empathy.
In our recent experience at the Lumenus Community Centre and the North York Harvest Food Bank, we found the joy of giving without acknowledgment or thanks. We also learned truly just how lucky we are, and how meaningful true giving really is. Service is something that everyone should take part in. Giving back to your community can bring you one of the best kinds of feelings. It inspires you to make a difference in people’s lives and requires so little. Whether you are donating your time, your food, your money or anything else, it all makes a huge difference, in so many people’s lives.
Even if your donations seem small, the impact they make on people’s lives is greater than you can possibly imagine. As the school year continues, please keep donating and engaging in service, as every donation and act of kindness, no matter how small, can change a life.
Making a Difference Has Made All the Difference
Written by Lizzie L., Tamira M., Claire M., and Bianca P.,
Members of the Campaign of Compassion Delivery Team
Hello everyone! We are the team that took part in the Better Beginnings donation drop off. On this trip, our mission was to help other people, give back to the community, and bring some warmth to their holiday season.
On December 15, we took a trip to the Lumenus Community Centre and the North York Harvest Food Bank to donate all your thoughtful items to the families each class was assigned. We got to see behind the scenes of how the donations are delivered. We will share our experiences with you and how we connected with the community.
We started the day by loading vans and buses with donation boxes from the Lower, Prep, and Upper Schools. Then, we took a bus to the Lumenus Community Centre to begin handing off the boxes to individuals and their families. We got to see the genuine and very heart-warming reactions of each person. Before we left, we got an in-depth tour of the community centre. We got to see their early-on program, the autism learning centres, and we learned about the residential program. We then took another bus to the North York Harvest Food Bank, where we met with staff who showed us how the sorting works. We learned some fascinating statistics helped by unloading all the Bayview Glen food donations, which was a lot! Great job everyone!
Here are some first-hand experiences that were reflected on after the trip:
“We met some of the families and staff there, and it was amazing to see the difference that community support makes in people’s lives.”
“Being there helped us understand that donating isn’t only about giving food. it’s about giving people comfort, stability, and hope.”
“When we visited North Harvest Food Bank, seeing the shelves filled with food donated by our school was such a proud moment. We learned how the donations are sorted and distributed, and just how many families rely on that food every day. It really opened our eyes to how important these drives are.”
We are so grateful to everyone who helped make this happen. Your generosity shows how powerful it is when our school comes together to care for others. Thank you for making a difference.
Winter Reflections and Transformational Growth at Bayview Glen
Bayview Glen News, Lower School, Newsletters and Publications, Prep School, The Glen, Upper School
Written by James Lee,
Head of School
The winter season brings a unique blend of joy and challenge. Our students continue to embrace learning, outdoor activities, athletics, play, and signature programmes such as music, drama, and robotics. At the same time, winter weather can create difficult driving conditions and occasional snow days. We are grateful for the cooperation of our families, faculty, staff, and broader community as we navigate this time of year together safely.
This week, we also celebrate an important moment in our School’s history. On February 4, we honour Founder’s Day. Sixty four years ago, L. Doreen Hopkins opened a small school in the Don River Valley with a vision to nurture children not only as learners but as compassionate, capable individuals. Her legacy continues to shape the vibrant community we value today.
As we reflect on our beginnings, we are equally excited about what lies ahead. Our New Build continues to progress exceptionally well, and we remain on track to open the new athletic complex in June. A new video created by our architectural partners showcases a transformational space that will elevate athletics, wellness and community connection for all students.
Our academic and co-curricular teams are now designing programming for this space, including our first ever swim programme and expanded co-curricular opportunities. The addition, already visible from the street, reflects our commitment to one of the key pillars of our BE BOLD strategic plan, Nurturing Belonging and Wellbeing.
Our mission, Whole Child. Purposeful Life. Better World. continues to guide how we design pathways and experiences for our students.
Looking forward, Propelling Academic Excellence and Innovation remains a priority. In response to the rapid evolution of Artificial Intelligence in education, our Directors of Teaching and Learning have developed the Bayview Glen A.I. Framework, focusing on Ethics of A.I., Human Centered Mindset and A.I. Techniques and Applications. Students will earn badges and micro-credentials throughout their journey. For more information, please connect with:
Finally, I would like to highlight the importance of our Preschool programme. Beginning at Bayview Glen as young as age two provides children with a warm, nurturing environment where foundational social, emotional and cognitive skills take root. Our Preschool remains a joyful and meaningful entry point into our School. Families interested in learning more are welcome to connect with our Admissions team at admissions@bayviewglen.ca.
As we look ahead to the coming months, we remain committed to offering experiences that align with our mission and prepare our students to lead purposeful lives and contribute to a better world.
Introducing the Reflection Room: A New Space for Quiet, Wellbeing, and Belonging at Bayview Glen
Bayview Glen News, Newsletters and Publications, The Glen
Written by Ryan Rodrigues,
Executive Director, Advancement and External Relations
Bayview Glen is pleased to announce the opening of the Reflection Room, a calm and welcoming space designed to support moments of reflection, prayer, meditation, or simply a quiet pause during the school day. Located on the 3rd floor of the Upper School, directly across from the bridge, this thoughtfully created environment will be open to all staff and faculty, as well as to Prep and Upper School students.
Available beginning February 9, the Reflection Room was shaped through meaningful conversations with our Grade 12 students and reflects our broader commitment to elevating student voice and supporting wellbeing. During consultations this Fall and ongoing dialogue with the graduating class, students emphasized the importance of having accessible spaces that support belonging. Their feedback, combined with our Strategic Plan commitment to Nurturing Belonging and Wellbeing, shaped the vision for this space.
This step represents progress within the broader wellbeing journey we have been building together. It is not the final destination, but rather an important and tangible expression of our commitment—and a foundation upon which future phases will continue to grow. As we continue working with our architects on purposebuilt belonging and wellbeing spaces across the school, the Reflection Room offers an immediate and meaningful resource for our community.
We look forward to seeing this space become a valued part of daily life at Bayview Glen, supporting moments of calm, connection, and care for all who use it.
We look forward to sharing more as this space opens and as our learning continues. If you would like to learn more or be part of this evolving work, please contact advancement@bayviewglen.ca.
Small Lessons, Big Skills: Financial Literacy Week in the Lower School
Bayview Glen News, Lower School, Newsletters and Publications, The Glen
Written by Erika Gillespie,
Director of Teaching and Learning, Lower School and Preschool
The Lower School celebrated our annual Financial Literacy Week with a series of learning experiences designed to build students’ understanding of money, decision-making, and responsible financial habits. The week began on January 16 with our Financial Literacy Week Assembly, where we welcomed guest speaker Justin Chung, host of the MoneyDad Podcast, who shared insights about the skill of giving and the four jobs of money (save, invest, spend, and give).
Classroom activities at each grade level took place throughout the week of January 19 to 23, with students exploring a variety of financial concepts.
In Junior Kindergarten, students explored big ideas such as how money is used to get things, the importance of making choices when spending, and keeping money safe. Through read-alouds, dramatic play in the classroom store, coin-counting activities, needs-versus-wants discussions, and the creation of personal wallets, students developed early financial awareness in meaningful and developmentally appropriate ways.
Senior Kindergarten students deepened their understanding of the value of coins and bills and practised using money in everyday situations through play. They also collaborated with Grade 5 students to support the promotion of a school charity initiative, connecting their financial learning to real-world community impact. A creative piggy bank design project further reinforced the concept of saving.
In Grade 1, students participated in All About Money, a virtual presentation from the Bank of Canada Museum. This interactive session explored what money was, why it was used, how it had changed over time, and the value and symbols of Canadian coins and bank notes.
Grade 2 students worked alongside the wonderful Deborah McMillan and her Knowledge Makes Cents company to complete the Making Cent™ – LITE program. Students discussed earned income, deposits, withdraws, and interest through play-based scenarios.
Our Grade 3 students also engaged in a workshop with Knowledge Makes Cents and discussed the concept of ‘Pay My-Future Self First’. Students explored good saving habits, how to budget, and the importance of giving back.
Grade 4 students took part in The Awesome Stuff Classroom Experience, an engaging, discussion-based activity that encouraged critical thinking about needs versus wants, saving for goals, charitable giving, and making thoughtful choices about money.
Finally, Grade 5 students engaged in a “Giving Back” unit, applying the skills they have gathered through their yearlong Classroom Economy signature programme as they planned a student-led hot chocolate stand fundraiser in support of North York Harvest Food Bank. After meeting with a representative from the organization, students applied budgeting, cost analysis, and marketing skills for their fundraiser. The culminating fundraiser will take place on Thursday, February 12, during our Valentine’s Day Civvies Day, with all proceeds being donated to the organization.
Financial Literacy Week is always a special week of learning in the Lower School that provides meaningful opportunities for students to be curious and develop essential life skills while connecting learning to real-world contexts and community involvement.
We, as Bayview Glen students, enjoy learning about Financial Literacy skills. Starting in Grade 4, we received our own Bank of Bayview Glen bank accounts and are challenged to spend and save our money wisely. We have learned that saving money for ourselves is important, but giving to others in need is also an important money skill to develop in life as well. To recognize giving, us Grade 5 students created a Hot Chocolate Stand business to raise money for our partners at North York Harvest Food Bank. The Hot Chocolate Stand will be operating on Thursday, February 12. We really value and enjoy the learning we do around financial literacy at Bayview Glen and know it will help our future selves.
Ellise and Sianna, Grade 5 Students