Torch - Spring 2018

at the Junior School, Mrs. Dexter honoured the uniqueness of each individual child and provided a rich and nurturing environment for them to grow. “When I reflect on my 35 years in education, I was fortunate enough to have completed the last seven years as Havergal’s Head of Junior School,” Mrs. Dexter says. “I learned alongside some of the most dedicated and passionate group of educators that I have ever had the opportunity to lead. Being greeted by wonderful staff members each morning and talking with eager students ready to begin their learning put a skip in my step each day. My heart and soul accepted the enormous responsibility that was awarded to me when I accepted this position. I will forever be grateful to our faculty, staff, parents and exceptional students for their cooperative energy in moving the school into the future. The laughter, dedication and smiles all made every day the best.” We wish Mrs. Dexter all the very best in her retirement. We know that much of her time will be spent tending to her garden on her farm and spending time with her beloved children and grandchildren.

Leslie Anne Dexter: Head of Junior School Mrs. Dexter’s 35-year career in elementary education has been a dynamic one. She began her teaching career at The Bishop Strachan School and moved on to Sterling Hall School, where she taught every grade from 1 to 8. At Sterling Hall, she also held the roles of Director of Curriculum and Vice Principal of Academics. Over the past seven years of her career, Mrs. Dexter served at Havergal as the Head of Junior School. She brought a zest for life and had a contagious energy that radiated throughout the school. She shared a strong connection with the students, parents, faculty and staff at the Junior School. Her obvious love and compassion for people enabled her to bring the faculty and staff together as a strong and collaborative team. One of the many gifts that Mrs. Dexter brought to our community was her passion for and expertise in gardening. She shared her love for gardening with the girls through her annual Spring Gardening Club. This club offered children the opportunity to plant, weed, water and watch the garden grow. Just like her garden

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