Dear Families,

I trust that everyone enjoyed a safe, healthy and enjoyable summer. It is a great pleasure to welcome all new and returning students, parents and families to Hillcrest Community School for our 2023-24 school year, which begins on Tuesday, September 5, 2023 at 9:00 a.m. (FDK - 9:15 a.m.).  I would like to thank many of you who have reached out to say hello and share kind words over the break.  I am so excited to continue to serve you!

After an unprecedented and challenging few years  in education, we continue to return to in-person learning with a commitment to safety, while we will continue to intentionally create a caring and inclusive environment for all staff and students. This year at Hillcrest Community School, we will continue to be more purposeful as we plan and prepare learning that will include the voice, identities, and lived experiences of our students as we work on achieving the Calls to Action and Equity. 

Over the summer, our building was once again deep cleaned and prepared to welcome back our staff and students. Our roof, brick and pool revitalizations are complete and we are excited for our students to be able to use all academic spaces.

I would like to recognize everyone who has worked hard to prepare for a safe reopening! The HCS team and I are so grateful to our caretaking staff led by Mike D’India, our office administrator, Janet Ing, and all of our teachers and support staff who have come in to ensure we are ready to receive your children. 

This is the first edition of the Hillcrest Summit, which will serve as our weekly, family communication.  It will routinely include a look at the week ahead, links to our school’s virtual announcements and community partners, friendly reminders and any other information that is beneficial to you and the extended community.  I do apologize, in advance, for the length of this message, as I have a number of pieces of information to share.

Prior to students returning to school on Tuesday, your child’s homeroom teacher will try their best to reach out to share their greetings.  The TDSB is continuing to transition to a new student information system (Power School) and we are working through the challenges that change can bring in learning new software.  Unless you have been previously informed, your child will line-up at the designated room number (painted on the playground) that was included on their June report card, prior to the start of the school day.  You will find a list of teachers and their room numbers, along with their entry/exit doors for the year, below.  Also, you will find various pieces of communication from me, which will outline the opening procedures.   

Wishing you all a wonderful long weekend as you continue making lasting memories with family and friends.

Yours,

Douglas Cornell

Principal

Hillcrest Community School