Category: Bayview Glen News
Spotlight on Performance: From Improv to Concert Stage
Bayview Glen News, Lower School, Newsletters and Publications, The Glen, Upper School
The Art of Improv at Upper School
Written by Liam E., Grade 9 Rep
Lower School Winter Concert Recap
Written by Ea-Ling Seun, Lower School Music Teacher
The Art of Improv at Upper School
Written by Liam E.,
Grade 9 Rep
Hi! I’m Liam, the founder of the Upper School’s Improv Club! My interest in improv started when I went downtown to watch a show at Second City. Fascinated by the complex back and forth and precise timing that the actors had mastered, I knew this mix of laughs and acting was the thing for me. Soon after, I signed up for a weeklong course at Second City. There, I learned the skills and techniques that lay underneath the craziness on the surface.
For improv to be successful, you need to be spontaneous and not afraid to go for it. Many can be reluctant to step in and really get involved, but in my experience, those who give more to improv get more out of it. There is a powerful joy that comes from going off script and sharing a laugh with your friends. This is why I started Improv Club, to let others enjoy this art as I do.
After talking to Mr. Clark, my mentor, during the Grade 9 trip to Camp Onondaga, I realized I could start an improv club. I started it early in the year, unsure whether anyone would sign up, and was delighted to see the eager faces that came into the room for our first meeting. During our meetings, we play improv games and experiment with different scenes. Improv Club now meets every week, and together we explore all that improv has to offer.
Lower School Winter Concert Recap
Created by Ea-Ling Seun,
Lower School Music Teacher
Collaborating for Student Wellbeing: The Importance of Open Communication about Diagnoses
Bayview Glen News, Lower School, Newsletters and Publications, Prep School, The Glen, Upper School
Written by Antoinette Morgan, MA, MSW, BSW, RSW,
Director of Student Wellbeing
Families play an important role in helping schools understand students’ unique learning and health needs. When diagnostic information is shared with the school, it allows educators to create consistent, well-coordinated support across home and school settings. This collaboration helps staff anticipate challenges, build on strengths, and ensure that, from the onset, students receive the right strategies and accommodations. Open, respectful communication strengthens the partnership between families and the school, ultimately helping every child feel understood and supported.
An important aspect of home-school partnership is the sharing of pertinent information related to a child’s learning, medical, and mental health diagnosis. Though some parents may be reluctant to share this sensitive information, doing so will greatly enhance their children’s experience at school. To support the whole child, there must be an understanding of any diagnosis to allow staff to see the full picture of their strengths, needs, and learning profile. This awareness creates a more positive outcome for children, enabling staff to respond with empathy and flexibility.
When families inform the school of their children’s diagnosis, they are better positioned to receive appropriate accommodation, learning strategies, and wellness supports. This purposeful support helps to build children’s confidence and foster resilience, equipping them for a meaningful and engaging life beyond the classroom.
A strong home-school connection creates a cohesive support system for student success. Children will thrive academically and socially when home and school function as a team. Open communication requires transparency between home and school that strengthens the continuity of support students receive. Sharing relevant information allows the school and families to align expectations to foster better outcomes and create a supportive environment that reduces unnecessary stress and anxiety and fosters growth.
Families are encouraged to share information about children’s medical and mental health needs. An informed staff will be better prepared to recognize signs of distress and offer timely intervention and/or support.
Sharing a diagnosis helps place a child’s behavior and learning differences in proper context, allowing staff to respond with understanding and care. Behaviors and responses are less likely to be misunderstood or misinterpreted, leading the child to feel seen, understood, and emotionally safe at school. This shared understanding fosters a more inclusive and compassionate school community that models respect, empathy, and belonging, and prepares students to contribute thoughtfully to a better world.
When parents share a child’s mental health or neurodivergent diagnosis with the school, it can significantly strengthen the child’s emotional wellbeing and sense of security. This open communication allows the school and family to work together in ways that support the whole child. A good partnership between home and school makes children feel protected and supported. This collaborative approach supports emotional well-being, builds resilience, and helps children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Importantly, our school respects privacy and confidentiality. Diagnostic information will only be shared with appropriate staff and used solely to support the student in alignment with best practices and confidentiality standards.
If you have questions about how the school can best support your child or if you would like to share information about a mental health diagnosis or neurodevelopmental disorder, I warmly encourage you to connect with me directly at amorgan@bayviewglen.ca. As the Director of Student Wellbeing, my role is to partner with families, listen carefully, and help ensure that every student feels understood, supported, and set up for success. You may also reach out to our School Nurse, Annie Davies-Irvine, RN, BScN, and learn more about our school’s Health Centre.
Please reach out at any time. Together, we can create the strong, coordinated support system your child deserves.
To continue these important conversations, families are warmly invited to join our Parent Book Club this March. We will be reading The Crucial Years: The Essential Guide to Mental Health and Modern Puberty in Middle Childhood (Ages 6–12) by Dr. Sheryl Gonzalez Ziegler.
More details and registration information will be shared soon and will be posted here.
We hope you will join us for this meaningful discussion and opportunity to connect with fellow parents.
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.
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.
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.
Highlights from Robotics: Competing, Creating, and Pushing Limits
Bayview Glen News, Lower School, Newsletters and Publications, Prep School, The Glen, Upper School
Digging in to REBUILT
Written by James K., and Alina D., Grade 10 Students
A Legacy of Excellence: Bayview Glen’s FIRST LEGO League Teams Shine on the Provincial Stage
Written by Benjamin McCord, FLL Robotics Co-ordinator
Digging in to REBUILT
Written by James K., and Alina D.,
Grade 10 Students
The start of this year’s FRC robotics season was marked by an exciting kickoff in the BVG learning commons where over forty students on ALT-F4 gathered to watch the REBUILT season launch. This year’s REBUILT theme is based upon archaeology, with a unique twist: much of the game included elements from previous years of FRC. The main premise of the game involves collecting FUEL – a nod to 2017’s Steamworks – in the center of the field and shooting it into your alliance’s HUB, which acts as a large basketball net. Robots may also complete a hang on a ladder structure.
Immediately after kickoff, team members split into groups to start creating 3D computer aided designs (CAD) for our robot. We strategized and determined the most optimal way to approach the game. Everyone worked diligently throughout the week, and to show for our efforts, we ended the following Sunday with nearly a complete CAD of the robot! Over the coming weeks, we will be refining our designs and building to prepare for programming.
Since kickoff, the lab has been bursting with energy and adrenaline. This season has been filled with many late nights, many of which would not have been possible without the unwavering dedication of our coaches and team members. The commitment of our team was truly tested when BVG called a snow day, yet many members still showed up to the lab. So far, it’s shaping up to be an outstanding and highly promising season for ALT-F4!
All FUEL’d up for this year’s season,
James – Writer, Media
Alina – Editor, Mechanical and Media
A Legacy of Excellence: Bayview Glen's FIRST LEGO League Teams Shine on the Provincial Stage
Written by Benjamin McCord,
FLL Robotics Co-ordinator
For more than 15 years, Bayview Glen’s FIRST LEGO League (FLL) Innovation and Robotics Programme has set the standard for student-driven STEM learning. This year’s results uphold that legacy and extend it in historic ways.
Bayview Glen’s most accomplished FLL team, Ctrl-Z, established the programme’s world-class reputation by winning the FIRST LEGO League World Championship in 2017. Coached by Eric Borromeo, Ctrl-Z remained a cornerstone of the programme until its retirement in 2024. Eric now coaches two all-Grade 5 teams, ensuring that excellence continues.
Regional Success and Provincial Breakthroughs
This season, four Bayview Glen FLL teams competed at the Ontario Provincial Championships (January 31 and February 1) hosted at Durham College, facing 83 teams from across the region. All four earned awards and will advance to postseason tournaments.
Highlights:
- Operation CREAT3 — 1st Place Core Values Award
- Eat. Sleep. Archaeology. Repeat. — 1st Place Innovation Project Award (all-Grade 5 team)
- Smart Ramen — 2nd Place Champions Award
- ConnecTech — 1st Place Champions Award
This marked three programme firsts: two teams earning 1st and 2nd Champions Awards, all teams advancing to postseason events, and an all-Grade 5 team advancing to a postseason tournament.
Onward to the World Stage
ConnecTech will compete at the FLL World Championships in Houston, Texas (April 29–May 2) for the second consecutive year. Smart Ramen advances to postseason play for the third consecutive year. Operation CREAT3, coached by Lower School Associate Teachers Jonathan Baum and Eryka Vella, demonstrated outstanding teamwork in their debut season.
With continued regional, provincial, and international achievements, Bayview Glen remains Canada’s highest-achieving school-based FLL programme, rooted in creativity, resilience, and student-led innovation.
The success of Bayview Glen’s FLL programme would not be possible without the extraordinary commitment of our parent volunteers, whose time, expertise, and encouragement play a vital role in supporting students throughout the season. Their partnership is essential to the growth and sustainability of this programme, and we sincerely thank them for their dedication.
For FLL inquiries, please get in touch with Benjamin McCord.
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.
Join Us for the Parent Association Parent Cocktail Social
Bayview Glen News, Events, Home page, Lower School, Parent Association, Prep School, Preschool, Upper School
Date: Wednesday, February 25, 2026
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Sibel Restaurant (1997 Avenue Rd, Toronto)
Calling all parents! Join the Bayview Glen Parent Association for a special evening of connection and fun at our school’s exclusive cocktail-style reception at Sibel restaurant.
Enjoy a selection of delicious food and wine as you mingle with fellow parents. This is a fantastic opportunity to relax, meet new friends, and strengthen our school community.
Please complete the online registration form on the PA Events webpage to get your tickets today before they sell out! Limited spots available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Ticket Price: $95 per person
What’s Included:
- A selection of delicious food stations
- A lively atmosphere to mingle and meet new people
- Red, white, and sparkling wine and soft drinks included in ticket price
- A fantastic opportunity to network, mingle, and enjoy quality conversation with fellow parents
If you have any questions, please contact pasocial@bayviewglen.ca. We can’t wait to see you there!
Parent Association Annual General Meeting and Breakfast 2026
Bayview Glen News, Events, Home page, Lower School, Parent Association, Prep School, Preschool, Upper School
The Parent Association (PA) Annual General Meeting (AGM) was held on January 21, 2026 in the Daunt Dining Hall at our Moatfield Campus. We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who braved the cold to attend this event. It was wonderful to see many of you there, and hear great updates from all divisions, highlighting the exciting initiatives being put in place at our school this year.
The PA Executive team proudly introduced their new members: Khati Nathoo, our new Vice President; Maria Tsopelas, our new Parent Volunteer Co-Director; and Ruby Cha, our new Civvies Day Co-ordinator. We are thrilled to have them on board and look forward to their contributions.
We also shared details about the upcoming PA events you can look forward to, such as our Parent Cocktail Social in February and the Family Bowling Day in April. These gatherings promise to be fun and engaging opportunities to connect with other parents and strengthen our community.
Our PA Treasurer presented the annual financials, along with an overview of the Parent Association’s $1 million pledge and previous contributions to the school. It was inspiring to see how our collective efforts have made a significant impact at the school.
Mr. Rodrigues from the Advancement and External Relations team provided an insightful overview of the Advancement and Community Engagement initiatives. He also shared the results of the Better Beginnings campaign, which has been instrumental in supporting our school’s growth and development.
We look forward to seeing everyone at our upcoming PA events and continuing to work together to make this year a memorable one for our school community.
If you couldn’t join us or would like to recap the presentations, the event recording is available for viewing via our post on Edsby news river.
To keep up-to-date with PA events, please visit the PA Events webpage, and check your email and Edsby news river for more details on each event.
Parent Association Merry Market 2025
Bayview Glen News, Events, Home page, Lower School, Parent Association, Prep School, Preschool, Upper School
The Bayview Glen community came together on November 21, 2025, for a joyful afternoon at the annual Parent Association Merry Market! From 2:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., the Moatfield Campus was alive with holiday spirit, laughter, and creativity.
Families and friends enjoyed a fantastic shopping experience with local vendors, Bayview Glen community members, and our talented student entrepreneurs. Highlights included the class basket auction, a bake sale, cozy hot chocolate, festive live music, and the return of holiday photos with Santa, spreading smiles all afternoon.
A heartfelt thank you to the Parent Association team, the Merry Market committees, and the many parent and student volunteers whose hard work and dedication made the day possible. Your support helped create a truly magical start to the holiday season!
Thank you all for joining us this year. We look forward to seeing everyone again at upcoming events.
