Category: Newsletters and Publications
Same Story, New Chapter: Alumni Connections Near and Far
Alumni, Bayview Glen News, Newsletters and Publications, The Glen, Upper School
Written by Daniella Brown ’10,
Director of Alumni Relations
London & Ottawa Alumni Visits Recap
Our recent visits to London and Ottawa were a wonderful reminder of what makes the Bayview Glen community so special. Reconnecting with alumni, hearing stories that span generations, and reflecting on the shared experiences that continue to shape our community long after graduation. What stood out most was the sense of connection in every room. While our school may have physical walls, the spirit of Bayview Glen reaches far beyond them, carried by each of you wherever life takes you.
Thank you to everyone who joined us and made these evenings so memorable. We are already looking forward to continuing our visits next year. Keep an eye out for our 2026 visit schedule, and in the meantime, we would love to hear from you. Where should we visit next?
Career Breakfast
Our February 26 Career Breakfast spotlighted the dynamic world of real estate, featuring Sherif Nathoo ’97 and Mackenzie Sharpe ’05. Sherif shared insights from building his own successful team and coaching with a global network, while Mackenzie offered perspective on navigating high-level commercial real estate. Together, they provided students with valuable advice, real-world experiences, and inspiration for future career paths.
Thank you to Sherif and Mackenzie for joining us as guest speakers, and a special thank you to all of our alumni who served as panellists for our 2025/26 Career Breakfast series. We are grateful for your time, insight, and continued connection to the community.
Stay tuned for next year’s lineup, and please contact me at dbrown@bayviewglen.ca if you are interested in presenting in the upcoming year.
Upcoming Alumni Reunion | May 22 & 23
We are so excited to welcome our alumni back to campus for Reunion 2026 on May 22 and 23. This year’s theme, Same Story, New Chapter, speaks to the shared foundation that connects us all, while celebrating the unique paths each of our alumni has taken since their time at Bayview Glen.
The weekend will kick off on Friday, May 22, in the evening (6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.) with an evening social. It is the perfect opportunity to reconnect, share stories, time to revisit familiar spaces, and settle into the spirit of the weekend. On Saturday, May 23 (10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.), we look forward to welcoming you back on campus for a full day of celebration, including student-teacher-alumni soccer and basketball, to connect with fellow alumni and faculty, and honour milestone years.
Reunion is always a special time. It is where stories are revisited, friendships are rekindled, and new memories are made. No matter how much time has passed, there’s just something about coming back to a place that helped shape your journey.
We encourage you to reconnect with your classmates and make plans to attend together. The more familiar faces, the more memorable the experience.
We cannot wait to welcome you back for a truly special weekend.
If you have any questions, please reach out to me at dbrown@bayviewglen.ca.
Learning Through Stories: Inspiring Readers and Thinkers
Alumni, Bayview Glen News, Lower School, Newsletters and Publications, Prep School, The Glen, Upper School
This spring, Bayview Glen welcomed authors who inspired students to read deeply, think creatively, and reflect thoughtfully. Through shared stories and meaningful conversations, students discovered the power of storytelling to entertain, connect, and inspire growth.
Lower School Readers Inspired by Kevin Sylvester and the April Read‑a‑Thon
Exploring Identity and Belonging Through Prep School Author Visits
Lower School Readers Inspired by Kevin Sylvester and the April Read‑a‑Thon
Written by Laura Jessup,
Lower School Teacher-Librarian
April was an unforgettable month at Bayview Glen, filled with reading, creativity, and inspiration!
We were thrilled to welcome acclaimed and award-winning Canadian author and illustrator Kevin Sylvester to Bayview Glen on April 14. Known for his dynamic storytelling, humour, and imaginative worlds, Kevin captivated students with insights into his popular titles, including Apartment 713, MINRS, Time Surfers, and Hockey Super Six. His stories, filled with adventure, mystery, and relatable characters, have long been favourites among our readers.
During his visit, students had the exciting opportunity to hear directly from Kevin about his writing process, creative ideas, and journey as an author and illustrator. His engaging presentation sparked curiosity, inspired budding writers, and deepened students’ appreciation for reading.
April also marked Bayview Glen’s Read-a-Thon, and the entire school community embraced the challenge with enthusiasm. Students explored new books, revisited old favourites, and discovered different genres, all while building strong reading habits and celebrating a shared love of books.
April was truly a celebration of stories, imagination, and inspiration. Well done, Bayview Glen readers!
Exploring Identity and Belonging Through Prep School Author Visits
Written by Michelle Huynh,
Prep and Upper School Librarian
The Learning Commons welcomed two authors who provided Grade 7 and 8 students with opportunities to reflect on identity, belonging, and decision-making through storytelling. Through personal experiences, readings, and discussions, students explored how stories shape the way we understand ourselves and relate to others.
Eddie Kawooya connected with students through his Ace and the Misfits series, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and what it means to feel different. He encouraged students to embrace who they are, challenge labels, and reflect on their own experiences of being misunderstood or underestimated. Drawing on both his writing and lived experiences, he emphasized courage by encouraging students to stay true to themselves, even in moments of uncertainty. His message also reinforced compassion, highlighting the importance of supporting one another, and recognizing that community is something we build together. Through his visit, students reflected on how their voices, choices, and actions can positively impact those around them.
Maria Marianayagam invited students to think more deeply about their choices and how those decisions shape themselves and others during her virtual visit. Drawing on her novel No Purchase Necessary, a Forest of Reading nominee this year, she shared how she develops ideas and crafts engaging stories, along with a reading from the book. She sparked curiosity by encouraging students to explore different perspectives and consider the complexity of characters’ decisions. Her focus on ethical dilemmas also highlighted courage, as students reflected on the importance of making thoughtful choices, even when they are difficult, while approaching situations with empathy.
A key takeaway from both author visits was that stories are not only a form of entertainment but also a powerful tool for personal growth. The visits left students with a greater appreciation for storytelling, a deeper love of reading, and a stronger understanding of themselves and others.
Language Learning Without Borders: CIS Ontario Language Teachers Network Meet & Greet
Bayview Glen News, Newsletters and Publications, The Glen
Written by
Paola Barron, Upper School Educator, French and Spanish Teacher
and Vivienne Kraus, Upper School Educator, Modern Languages Department Head
Bonjour! Hola! Ni hao!
On Friday, April 10, Bayview Glen welcomed 65 educators from 26 CIS Ontario schools for the Language Teachers Network Meet & Greet, Language Learning without Borders: AI, Interculturality, and Global Citizenship. We co-founded this annual event in 2019, to provide a time dedicated to cultivating professional community and sharing effective practices among language educators.
The day opened with a keynote address by Lincoln Smith, Technology and Innovation Coach at Upper Canada College, titled “Moving from ‘Efficient’ to ‘Effective’: How We Can Use Technology to Expand What Is Possible in Assessment, Learning, and Feedback.” His remarks set the tone for a day focused on innovation, reflection, and pedagogical growth.
Participants then engaged in two rounds of breakout sessions led by CIS educators, with topics including interdisciplinary learning, neuroscience-informed practice, leveraging AI for differentiation, an exchange programme in Spain, gamification strategies (presented by Azal Amer Moussa, Modern Languages Department Head, Prep School), and the integration of drama in the language classroom.
Lunch provided valuable time for networking and collegial exchange, as well as opportunities to connect with exhibitors representing leading publishers and educational organizations.
Feedback from participants highlighted the day as both inspiring and practical, with particular appreciation for the targeted resources shared in workshops and the meaningful professional connections fostered throughout the event.
We extend our sincere thanks to our Modern Languages colleagues across the Lower, Prep, and Upper Schools, Bayview Glen’s Administration and Maintenance teams, and Chartwells for their continued support in making this event possible.
The Bridge to Innovation: Connecting Skills to Real-World Solutions in the Prep School
Bayview Glen News, Newsletters and Publications, Prep School, The Glen
Written by Laura Gleeson,
Prep School Educator, Science and Technology Department Head
While technology is meaningfully integrated across all subject areas at the Prep School, what distinguishes our stand-alone technology and problem-based learning courses is the clear and connected continuum that has been created, one that guides students from building skills to solving real-world problems. From Grade 6 to Grade 8, students develop the tools, mindset, and confidence to innovate.
In Grade 6 Integrated Technology (IT), students lay the groundwork. They explore multimedia platforms, 3D printing, AI, and coding while learning how technology can enhance their work across subjects. They build essential skills in communication, collaboration, and research, alongside responsible digital citizenship. Using the Design Thinking Method, students create digital solutions. This course is about technology foundations, exploration, and problem solving – giving students the technical fluency they need to take the next step.
That next step happens in Grade 7, where the newly introduced Integrated Technology and Design Thinking (ITDT) course acts as the bridge from skills to application. Here, students begin to think like designers. They identify problems, consider user perspectives, and develop creative, tangible solutions. Through hands-on, collaborative projects, students brainstorm, prototype, and refine their ideas, building on the tools taught in Grade 6 IT. Students participate in design blitzes and are encouraged to physically build, iterate, modify, and “get messy” in their design work.
In Grade 8, Problem-Based Learning (PBL) brings it all together. Students take ownership of their learning as they tackle complex, real-world issues that matter to them. From social justice to community wellbeing, they research, interview, design, and build solutions that address authentic needs. Their work extends beyond the classroom, culminating in presentations to expert panels and the development of prototypes such as student-built applications and websites, and business models. Students are no longer just problem-solvers; they are change makers.
This three-year continuum ensures that each step builds intentionally on the last. By the end of Grade 8, students are not only confident in their use of technology but also equipped with the creativity, critical thinking, and resilience needed to design solutions for an ever-changing digital world. It is truly a unique piece of the Prep School experience.
That’s All for This Segment: Inside the World of Prep News
Bayview Glen News, Newsletters and Publications, Prep School, The Glen
Written by Andrew Vivian,
Prep School Educator
At the Prep School, news is a very different kind of broadcast. While real-world headlines often focus on conflict, crisis, and concern, Prep News offers something far more uplifting: a joyful kind of organized chaos. Instead of worrying updates and serious reports, the Prep community is treated to creativity, humour, and a healthy dose of the unexpected. This is all thanks to the ever-entertaining Prep News Crew, a student-led team that brings assemblies to life with recurring segments, unforgettable characters, and laugh-out-loud moments that turn everyday school experiences into something truly memorable.
So, who is behind the magic this year? The Prep News Exec 2026 is led by Heads Bennett G. and Evan F., who guide the vision and direction of the show. Supporting them is Assistant Head Mila J., helping to keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes. Bringing the stories to life are Hosts Julian C. and Nicholas D., whose energy and timing keep audiences engaged from start to finish. And, of course, no news team would be complete without a Roving Reporter—Andrew C.—who is always ready to jump into the action and uncover the latest happenings around the Prep. Together, this group leads a talented team of students in creating a fresh, fun, and uniquely Prep perspective on school life.
This year’s segments have continued to push the boundaries of creativity (and logic). For Halloween, Prep News revealed that the holiday was merely a cover for an alien invasion—one with a particularly terrifying goal: turning everyone into Math teachers. Professor Paranoid returned in full force to warn the school, while Ms. Keyworth appeared as a thoroughly unimpressed 911 operator, dismissing the increasingly frantic reports. Just when all hope seemed lost, Snr Vertel arrived to save the day, using powerful Spanish incantations to repel the invaders and restore order.
The holiday season brought a different kind of chaos, as the Grinch and Claus families faced off in a spirited (and highly questionable) game of Family Feud. In January, Prep News took a look at some rejected ideas for Snow Much Fun Day, including a snow-staring contest, an art lesson on how to draw a polar bear in a snowstorm (with predictably invisible results), and ice fishing in the parking lot at 85 Moatfield—where determined participants managed to reel in frozen fish sticks. Not to be outdone, Prep News also put its own spin on La Journée de la Francophonie by proposing alternative language days, featuring everything from wizard spells and Professor Paranoid-speak to Minion language and even lessons on how to talk like a pirate.
Looking ahead, the Prep News team has no shortage of ideas. Upcoming segments are set to explore the Prep School trip to Muskoka Woods, as well as a uniquely Prep take on the calm and creative world of Bob Ross. If past episodes are any indication, viewers can expect the usual mix of creativity, humour, and just the right amount of chaos.
That’s all for this segment. Prep News is signing off!
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.
Upper School BVG Players Present Shakespeare’s Classic on Feb 19 & 20
Bayview Glen News, Events, Newsletters and Publications, The Glen, Upper School
Written by Amelie C.,
Grade 10 students, BVG Players Publicity Team
The BVG Upper School Players invite the Bayview Glen community into the enchanting, unpredictable world of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, where love is rarely simple, magic is always meddling, and nothing stays quite as it seems. This Shakespeare classic, in a new, modern verse translation by Jeff Whitty, weaves together the lives of four young lovers, a mischievous group of amateur performers, and a band of fairies.
This production highlights the play’s playful humour and emotional depth, balancing witty dialogue with moments of tenderness and chaos. The story explores how love can be irrational, powerful, and delightfully absurd.
Behind the scenes, students have been working since September to bring this world to life. Cast and crew have dedicated months to rehearsals – perfecting their characters, developing technical designs, and collaborating with the entire company to shape every detail. Their commitment and creativity shine through in a production that reflects both the timelessness of Shakespeare’s work and the energy of young performers bringing it to the stage.
Our production of Dream 2026 will be performed at 6 p.m. on February 19 and 20 in the J.T.M Guest Theatre, offering audiences an evening filled with imagination, laughter, and theatrical magic.
While tickets are complimentary, we encourage attendees to donate in support of Ontario’s Bill 7 Award, a registered charity that provides post-secondary education scholarships for 2SLGBTQIA+ students.
Please reserve spaces and note accessibility needs here.
We look forward to seeing you there!
