Category: Bayview Glen News
The Path Here – The Path Ahead: Commitment to Truth and Reconciliation
Bayview Glen News, Lower School, Newsletters and Publications, Prep School, Preschool, The Glen, Upper School
Written by Erika Gillespie, Greg Ryerson, and L-J van ‘t Hof,
Directors of Teaching and Learning
On September 30, Bayview Glen came together to observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. It was a meaningful opportunity for our school community to reflect on the history of what we now call Canada, honour Indigenous voices, and renew our ongoing commitment to reconciliation. This year also marked ten years since the release of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, which continue to inform and guide our work.
We embraced the theme “The Path Here – The Path Ahead,” and continued our tradition of gathering as a whole school. Older students were paired with younger ones to share poetry from Richard Wagamese’s “Embers – One Ojibway’s Meditation.” These poems encouraged us all to listen deeply and think about our role in building understanding and respect. After sharing the poems, the, students shouted their personal commitments to reconciliation out to the universe, then tied biodegradable ribbons onto the Lower School fence. These ribbons served as a visual reminder of their promises. As they begin to fade and degrade, we will use that as a sign to revisit and recommit to our ongoing work.
Throughout the year, we continue to explore Indigenous history and perspectives in our classrooms. We want all of our students to feel empowered to ask questions, learn, and take action. As we reflect on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we honour the path we’ve travelled and look ahead to the journey still to come – together, as a community committed to truth, respect, and reconciliation.
Prep Players Present: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
Bayview Glen News, Events, Newsletters and Publications, Prep School, The Glen
Written by Victoria Addorisio,
Prep School Associate Teacher, Prep Players Director
Get ready for chills, laughter, and a touch of mystery with our upcoming Prep Players Production, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. This one-act version, adapted by Peter and Hans Bloedel, brings Washington Irving’s classic ghost story to life with creative twists. This reimagined version captures all the drama, suspense, and humour of the original tale, complete with clever rhymes, an eerie atmosphere, and of course, the haunting presence of the Headless Horseman.
Adding to the magic, three talented ensemble groups work together to bring the world of Sleepy Hollow to life. They embody the headless horseman, the swirling fog, and even the ghostly energy that lingers in the air. Their movement and rhythm help weave together this imaginative retelling.
Full of heart, humour, and a healthy dose of creepy spirit, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow promises to be an unforgettable experience. Join us in the J.T.M. Guest Theatre at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 5, 2026 for a night of ghostly fun and discover what really happens when the Headless Horseman rides again!
Day 9 Recap: Creativity, Community, and Reconciliation
Bayview Glen News, Lower School, Newsletters and Publications, Prep School, The Glen
Day 9 Through the Eyes of Grade 2 Students
Written by Rosamund W. and Nora P., Grade 2 Students
ReconciliACTION in Action: How Prep Students Are Leading Change
Written by Nicole Blair, Dean of Student Life, Prep School
Upper School’s Day 9 Experience: A Focus on Belonging and Wellbeing
Written by Troy Hammond, Dean of Student Life, Upper School
Day 9 Through the Eyes of Grade 2 Students
Rosamund W., Grade 2 Student
I felt great about Day 9. First, we went to the library to get an introduction. Next, we made adventure journals. We put magazines, stamps, and flower stamps in our books. Then we had cheese pizza and veggies for lunch.
Then we went outside to play games. First, we played a game called “Find My Tree.” Next, we played a challenge. It was called the Flagpole Challenge. Then we ate snack. Our snack was granola and fruit. Then we had a marble challenge. Last, we played a game called Rock, Paper, Scissors Army Game.
This was my Day 9. I hope you enjoyed it! I can’t wait for another Day 9. My favourite activity was the adventure journals.
Nora P., Grade 2 Student
I felt really great about Day 9 because I was so happy. First, we went to the library to see what we were doing on Day 9. Then we went back to the classroom to do the activity. We made adventure journals. We cut out pictures from magazines and nature books. My favorite part was making the adventure journals. I already made another one at home.
Then we ate pizza and veggies for lunch. Then we went outside to play a couple of games. First, we heard a story. Then we played a game called “Find My Tree.” We had to be blindfolded and our partner had to lead us to a tree. It was exciting and fun to try this. I really liked hanging out with my friend and having fun, especially playing Rock, Paper, Scissors Army Game where the people who lost had to go behind the winner and cheer them on for their next games. I had a really fun day!
ReconciliACTION in Action: How Prep Students Are Leading Change
Nicole Blair, Dean of Student Life, Prep School
Friday, October 17, marked the Prep School’s first Day 9 (Flex Day). A dedicated day designed to deepen learning beyond the classroom, strengthen community, and promote holistic growth. With a full day of meaningful programming, students and staff came together to explore history, culture, and the power of taking action.
The morning began with the entire Prep School visiting Young People’s Theatre to see The Mush Hole, a powerful production exploring hope, resilience, and the enduring impact of residential schools. Students were moved by the performance, which used expressive movement and emotion to convey the physical and emotional pain endured by Indigenous children and their families.
Keegan R. (Grade 8 student) reflected, “I was able to see and better understand how traumatic residential schools were”. Others reflected on the show’s broader message, seeing it as a reminder to prevent Canada from repeating this tragic history. Across grades, students left the theatre with a lasting sense of empathy and awareness, ready to engage meaningfully in reconciliation. In the afternoon, the learning continued with ReconciliACTION activities, allowing students to extend their learning and take meaningful action towards reconciliation through dance, art, drama, poetry, outdoor learning, and more.
William R. (Grade 8 student) shared insights from a field trip to Biidaasige Park (“bee-daw-sihgeh,” meaning sunlight shining toward us), “We took action towards ReconciliACTION by acknowledging that the land we were on was designed by Indigenous people. We also saw several wooden animal sculptures created by First Nations (an owl, a beaver, etc.). Reconciliation is about co-operating with Indigenous people, therefore, by sharing and respecting this park they created, we are doing so”.
Grade 6 student, Cara H., participated in a Planting Native Species workshop, reflecting, “This is important because it helps restore ecosystems damaged by colonialism, rebuild relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people, and uphold the cultural and spiritual significance of the land for Indigenous communities”.
Day 9 also strengthened connection and community across the Prep School. Brooklyn T. (Grade 7 student) eloquently summarized the day, “Day 9 built community in the Prep School because it helped us better understand the importance of reconciliation and the role we can each play in it. This day encouraged empathy, awareness, and respect within our school. Engaging in our Day 9 also gave us a shared experience that brought our school closer”.
Through learning, reflection, and meaningful action, the Prep School Community took an important step in understanding Canada’s history and embracing its role in reconciliation, appreciating the time and space Day 9 provided to do so.
Upper School's Day 9 Experience: A Focus on Belonging and Wellbeing
Troy Hammond, Dean of Student Life, Upper School
On Friday, October 17, students and faculty in the Upper School participated in the inaugural Day 9 Flex Day. The development of programming for this day began with consideration of those things that align with our School’s strategic priorities and meet the needs of our students. Input was sought from students based around the prompt, “If I had more time in the day, I would…,” and the responses were definitive.
What became very clear is that high school students feel that they do not get enough sleep, want more time for connection with friends (and/ or to make new friends), and that they are pulled in many directions, which impacts their ability to get schoolwork finished. The decision to then focus our Day 9 around belonging and wellbeing was born.
The goal for the day was to ensure that our students felt a genuine sense of belonging and purpose, were afforded meaningful opportunities to connect with each other and trusted adults, and left feeling refreshed as we moved into the middle part of the term. The schedule consisted of a late start and extended Mentor activities that included the opportunity for each group to think about the ways in which they can contribute meaningfully to their community – whether that be on a smaller scale within their Mentor group, the school, or the world outside of our walls. A highly engaging speaker, Dr. Barry Craig, who is the President of Huron University at Western, then addressed the students and invited them to pause and reflect on “Finding Happiness.” In the afternoon, a choice of wellness activities – ranging from chess, a creative station, dog therapy, use of the fitness room, meditation and mindfulness, a study hall and reading room, Zumba, and specialized post- secondary workshops for Grade 12s – provided the opportunity for replenishing the body, mind, and soul.
At the end of the day, students were invited to share reflective thoughts about Day 9 and post them on the Gratitude Wall outside of Alumni Hall. It was evident that our entire Upper School community appreciated the time to pause instruction so that we could take care of ourselves.
Parent Association Halloween Fun Bash 2025
Bayview Glen News, Events, Home page, Lower School, Parent Association, Prep School, Preschool, Upper School
Thank you all for attending our annual Halloween Fun Bash on Sunday, October 26! We all had a wicked good time celebrating with our Bayview Glen community and dressing up for a Spooktacular Halloween Celebration!
The kids enjoyed trick or treating, many games, arts and crafts, and the well-attended inflatables castles and famous BeaverTails food truck with their families and friends! New this year, was our first ever Glow in the Dark dance party with a Live DJ – a big success appreciated by many!
We look forward to seeing many families again at our next Parent Association Merry Market on Friday, November 21, 2025 from 2:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at our Moatfield Campus. Please check out the PA Events webpage for more details and online registrations.
Parent Association Morning Coffee Social 2025
Bayview Glen News, Events, Home page, Lower School, Parent Association, Prep School, Preschool, Upper School
Thank you to everyone who joined us on Friday, October 3, 2025 for the Parent Association Morning Coffee Social on the beautiful back deck of our Moatfield Campus. The morning provided a relaxed opportunity to catch up, enjoy conversation, and strengthen our school community.
We look forward to seeing many families at our next Parent Association Halloween Fun on Sunday, October 26 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at our Moatfield Campus. Please stay tuned for more details.
Parent Association Evening Parent Social 2025
Bayview Glen News, Events, Home page, Lower School, Parent Association, Prep School, Preschool, Upper School
Thank you to everyone who joined us for our first Parent Association Evening Parent Social on Thursday, September 25 on the scenic rooftop patio of our Moatfield Campus. It was wonderful to connect with so many parents in a relaxed, social setting – celebrating the start of a new school year, fostering new friendships, and strengthening our vibrant school community.
For those who were unable to attend, we look forward to seeing you at our next Parent Association Morning Coffee Social on Friday, October 3 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on the beautiful back deck of our Moatfield Campus. Please be sure to register online if you are planning to attend.
Coaching at Bayview Glen
Athletics, Bayview Glen News, Home page, Lower School, Prep School, Upper School
At Bayview Glen, our coaches play a pivotal role in shaping student-athletes who exemplify resilience, teamwork, and leadership. In the reflections below, two long-time coaches share how Bayview Glen athletes bring our school values to life through resilience, teamwork, and leadership.
Sharing from Coach Andrew Vivian
At the heart of every school lies a set of core values that guide both the educational and social experiences of students. Compassion, courage, and curiosity form the pillars that support our mission to foster well-rounded individuals who are not only knowledgeable but also emotionally and socially conscious. One of the most powerful ways to nurture these values is through sports.
Compassion is about understanding and caring for others, and sports provide a natural environment for students to develop this quality. As athletes work together to achieve a common goal, they learn the value of supporting one another – whether through encouragement after a mistake or celebrating a teammate’s success.
Coaches have the unique opportunity to model compassion, teaching athletes how to be empathetic, patient, and understanding of each other’s struggles and triumphs. In a sports setting, athletes are often placed in situations where they must put the team’s needs ahead of their own, like a softball player being asked to play catcher when they really would prefer first base. This can be an experience that helps students understand the importance of collaboration and selflessness.
Courage is often perceived as the ability to face challenges despite fear, and sports provide endless opportunities for students to develop this virtue. Whether it’s overcoming the fear of failure, standing up after a tough loss, or pushing through physical exhaustion, students learn that courage is not the absence of fear but the determination to face it head-on. A coach’s role in cultivating courage is crucial; by creating a supportive environment where mistakes are seen as opportunities to grow, athletes are encouraged to take risks, step out of their comfort zones, and persevere through adversity. In swimming, learning the flip-turn can be very scary as the chance of hitting your head on the wall is very real. The courage to try something new instills resilience and a sense of accomplishment. Coaches, by offering guidance and positive reinforcement, help students develop the inner strength needed to overcome obstacles both physical and mental.
At first thought, curiosity doesn’t seem like a value that is obviously connected to sports. However, curiosity is more than just asking questions – it’s the desire to explore new ideas, discover unknown talents, and challenge one’s limits. Coaching sports encourages students to be curious about their abilities, strategies, and the nuances of the game or activity. In older students, sports can also spark curiosity about broader topics such as teamwork, psychology, and physiology. Students may wonder how teamwork influences performance or why certain training regimens are effective.
Coaching sports in school goes beyond teaching students how to win or improve their athletic performance. It is about shaping individuals who are curious, compassionate, and courageous. Through sports, students learn to ask questions, support one another, and face challenges with confidence and resolve.
Andrew Vivian has taught and coached at Bayview Glen for over 30 years. (Swimming, Softball, Hockey, Rugby, Cross-Country Running, Volleyball, and Soccer)
Sharing from Coach Kristin Carpenter
The athletics programme is one of the many aspects at Bayview Glen that sets us apart. I have been coaching at the school for many years and over this time I have had the privilege of working with hundreds of student athletes. Throughout this, I have come to realize that our athletes truly embody our core values. These values show up in how our athletes train, compete, and treat each other.
One thing that stands out immediately to me is resilience. I coach cross country running and track and field – sports that demand a lot. There is no quick path to success in these sports, just a lot of early mornings, tough workouts, and learning to show up, rain or shine. Whether it is muddy trails in October or a beating sun on the track in June, our athletes put their heads down and get it done. They take ownership of their goals, and they understand that real growth comes from a consistent work ethic.
Even though running and throwing and jumping are often seen as individual sports, as seen in all Gryphons sports, teamwork plays a huge role in what we do. I have seen athletes pace each other through tough workouts, cheer louder for their peers than for themselves, and put a teammate’s success ahead of their own. That kind of support, compassion, and selflessness says a lot about who they are as individuals. Integrity is another core value that comes across in every practice. Our athletes don’t cut corners. They show up, put in the work and hold each other accountable. In competition, they show respect for the sport, their competitors, and for themselves. And no matter the outcome, Bayview Glen Gryphons carry themselves with pride and humility, and are often recognized by other schools for the spirit and respect that they consistently display.
Bayview Glen is a busy place and many of our students have a lot on their plates – academics, clubs, music, leadership roles, and athletics. Our students work hard to maintain balance and manage to make it to early practices and late games. It’s not always easy but they learn to make it all work and to ask for help when they need it. Through athletics, our Gryphons learn how to manage their time, look after themselves, and stay grounded. These life skills are things they can take forward and will stick with them well beyond their years at Bayview Glen.
After all these years, what keeps me motivated and engaged with coaching is our students. They are not just athletes, they are kind, thoughtful, and driven. Watching them grow – not just as athletes but as individuals – is one of the most rewarding parts of being a coach. More than just talk, Gryphon Athletics put our values into action ever day!
Parent Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon 2025
Bayview Glen News, Events, Home page, Lower School, Parent Association, Prep School, Preschool, Upper School
On Wednesday, May 28, our school community gathered in the J.T.M. Guest Theatre to celebrate the incredible dedication and generosity of our parent volunteers at the annual Parent Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon. The event served as a warm and sincere opportunity to recognize the time, energy, and spirit our parent volunteers contribute throughout the school year.
Parents were welcomed with delightful refreshments and a heartfelt atmosphere of gratitude. The Head of School, the Parent Association President and Vice President, as well as the Executive Director of Advancement and External Relations, each shared their remarks expressing appreciation for the profound impact our parent volunteers have on student life, school events, and the broader community.
We are deeply thankful for our engaged and supportive parent community. Your commitment and care help make Bayview Glen a place where students – and our entire school community – can thrive.
We are always looking for parents to join us to organize events, be a part of our Parent Association Executive and volunteer at events. If you are interested in volunteering, please complete the online signup form (click here), or contact pavolunteer@bayviewglen.ca for any questions.
Join Us on Thursday, May 1 for the Final Parent Book Club and Parent Association Speaker Series
Bayview Glen News, Events, Home page, Lower School, Newsletters and Publications, Parent Association, Prep School, Preschool, Upper School
On behalf of Bayview Glen and the Parent Association, we warmly invite you to our final Parent Book Club and Parent Association Speaker Series of the school year on Thursday, May 1, 2025.
Parent Book Club
Book Discussion: The Disengaged Teen: Helping Kids Learn Better, Feel Better, and Live Better – by Jenny Anderson and Rebecca Winthrop
Date: Thursday, May 1, 2025
Location: Learning Commons, Bayview Glen Moatfield Campus
Time: 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Facilitator: Antoinette Morgan, Director of Student Wellbeing
Whether you’ve read the book or not, everyone is welcome to join the Book Club! You can pick up a copy at your bookstore or download the eBook to get started.
Parent Association Speaker Series
Topic: Artificial Intelligence in Education: Navigating AI with Your Kids
Date: Thursday, May 1, 2025
Location: J.T.M. Guest Theatre, Bayview Glen Moatfield Campus
Time: 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Speaker: Sandra Nagy, Director of Learning, Future Design School
Q&A Panelist: Leen-Jan Van ’t Hof, Director of Teaching and Learning, Upper School
This session will showcase real examples of how schools are using AI to ignite student potential and support the entire school community.
Please register online by April 30 if you are interested in attending.
Whether you’ve joined us throughout the year or are considering attending for the first time, we welcome you to be part of this final conversation as we wrap up another meaningful year of learning together.
Light refreshments will be served during both events. We look forward to seeing you there!
A Spotlight on the Arts at Bayview Glen
Bayview Glen News, Lower School, Prep School, Upper School
Bayview Glen students have a wealth of opportunities to explore the performing arts at every stage of their education. From imaginative play in Preschool to full-scale productions in Prep and Upper School, each stage of the journey fosters creativity, confidence, and collaboration—cornerstones of our school community.
Discover below some highlights from this term:
Lower School – A Delicious Performance at Spring Festival
Prep School – The Prep Players are Back with a Bang
Upper School – Behind the Scenes of “The Three Musketeers”
Lower School
A Delicious Performance at Spring Festival
“Let’s Eat!” was about kids at school who are very hungry, so they went looking around for food in the neighborhood, but they couldn’t find good options. Since they ran out of options, they went to Filling’s house, where they ate chicken pot pie. The songs from “Let’s Eat!” were “Banana Split,” “The Fast-Food Tango,” and “Thankful.” The funniest moment was when the character “Parched” thought that the learning course meant food course.
“Let’s Eat!” gave us an opportunity to sing, dance, and have fun. It taught us how to work together as a community. We developed an appreciation for music, and it helped me get over my stage fright during performances. We all improved our acting skills. In the end, “Let’s Eat!” was an awesome play and a memorable event for all of us.
Naya and Arya, Grade 4 students
Prep School
The Prep Players are Back with a Bang
This year, Drama made its post-pandemic return to the Prep School with the reinstatement of our co-curricular Drama programme, the Prep Players.15 actors took the stage to perform “Too Many Detectives at the Murder Mansion” by Ian McWethy – a quippy whodunnit featuring a cast of well-known characters including Sherlock Holmes, the Scooby Doo Gang, Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys, and Batman. An additional 15 students assisted backstage and in the booth, covering all the technical aspects of the show – lighting, sound, hair and costumes, and set changes.
Putting on a full-scale Drama performance is about so much more than memorizing lines and nailing your blocking. It requires a group of people to collaborate and support one another while also finding ways for themselves to shine and have their ‘moment.’ Seeing young actors work together to fumble through a scene on their first day ‘off book’ is a beautiful example of how real-time collaboration works, and it requires those actors to be flexible and adaptable while still getting their own lines right and getting the scene from point A to B. Similarly, when a group of crew members come together to manage a scene change, there is an incredible synergy that is formed through the simple act of working together to achieve a common goal.
It is absolutely wonderful to have the Prep Players back at Bayview Glen, and we can’t wait to see what they have in store for future performances.
Greg Ryerson, Director of Teaching and Learning (Prep School)
Upper School
Behind the Scenes of “The Three Musketeers”
As the Upper School play counted down the last few days until performing Ken Ludwig’s “The Three Musketeers”, it became apparent just how fast time flew by. During these fleeting moments, it is essential to reflect on the journey we have been through to uncover the lessons we have learnt. Being one of the stage managers this year, I was able to contribute to and experience the play being pieced together one by one. Of course, it was not just a smooth ride. Despite the difficulties, through hard work, collaboration, and dedication, our perseverance flourished in this production. Before becoming stage manager, the year prior, I was a part of the play as a member of the costumes department. Designing and making costumes as well as being part of such a great community left me with memorable moments that made me all the more excited for what next year had in store. This desire to be more involved with the play motivated me to pursue a leadership role.
This year, as stage manager, I got to work alongside various departments and saw the collective effort fall into place. Compared to last year it felt as if my vision was expanded. Suddenly, I was aware of all the planning and dedication necessary for a successful production. Through my role, I aided the busy production during the auditioning process, weekly production meetings, and lively rehearsals. I was able to implement many skills such as collaboration, organization, initiative, and responsibility. A memorable moment during rehearsals and one of my responsibilities was to check in with each crew. Clasping a red binder that held rehearsal notes, I walked through the theatre, hallways, and room 212 where I witnessed many lost in their work, light chatter, and laughter floating through the air. Whilst scattered, all of these departments and actors were still connected; a collective effort towards a common goal. We were all working towards performing an amazing play. This is one of the many powers of art. It can unite people to work towards a common goal. The Upper School play showed me the importance of the journey and not necessarily the destination. While the result fills us with accomplishment and pride, what we truly gain lies in the process and not the final result. We experience ups and downs during our journey which builds character. Whether it is cultivating skills, exploring new interests, or making meaningful connections and memories, there is always something to be gained and learned by being a part of the Upper School play.
Sirin, Grade 11 Student
