This morning, (4/24/2026), Hurden Looker Elementary School hosted its National Elementary Honor Society Induction Ceremony! Congratulations to all of the Hurden Looker scholars who were inducted based not only on their academic success, but also their service and participation in extracurricular activities and programs! Thank you to Principal Alvarez, Vice-Principal Pinho, our Hurden Looker School Honor Society advisors, teachers, staff, Acting Superintendent Dr. Pérez, and to all of the parents, families, and community members who were in attendance for this stellar ceremony!
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #hurdenlooker #honorsociety #studentsfirst #hillsideone
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #hurdenlooker #honorsociety #studentsfirst #hillsideone
Yesterday, April 23rd, 2026, was "Bring Your Child to Work Day" and Deanna G. Taylor Academy (DGTA) was excited to welcome its visitors in! It was a wonderful opportunity for guests to experience a day in the life of the DGTA school community while learning more about the important work that takes place each day at the school.
During their visit, the children engaged in a structured school-based experience that included observing daily school operations, interacting with staff and students, and participating in engaging learning opportunities through some of the special programs, including Gardening and Robotics.
This meaningful experience provided students with valuable exposure to future career pathways in education, leadership, teamwork, and innovation. It also highlighted the many ways schools help shape and support the next generation of learners and leaders.
We thank all of the families, staff members, and guests who helped make this day such a success.
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #earthday #studentsfirst #hillside one
During their visit, the children engaged in a structured school-based experience that included observing daily school operations, interacting with staff and students, and participating in engaging learning opportunities through some of the special programs, including Gardening and Robotics.
This meaningful experience provided students with valuable exposure to future career pathways in education, leadership, teamwork, and innovation. It also highlighted the many ways schools help shape and support the next generation of learners and leaders.
We thank all of the families, staff members, and guests who helped make this day such a success.
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #earthday #studentsfirst #hillside one
Yesterday was Earth Day 2026! Hillside Public Schools scholars from Deanna G. Taylor Academy (DGTA), and W.O.K. Middle School partnered with the Hillside Department of Public Works (DPW), and ShopRite of Hillside to help clean the local environment! Thank you to Mrs. Harris, DPW Lead Coordinator for this event Mrs. Tyrese Outlaw, Principal Graham, Vice-Principal Budhu, Principal Dr. Wilson, Vice-Principal Scott-Jackson, and others for organizing this awesome cleanup! @shopritestores
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #shoprite #hillsidedpw #earthday
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #shoprite #hillsidedpw #earthday
Last night (4/22/2026) Hillside High School hosted its first Hispanic Honor Society Initiation Ceremony! Congratulations to all of the Hillside High School scholars who have "shown and proven" a keen interest in the Spanish language! The Hispanic Honor Society was founded by the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese in 1953 for students in North American High Schools. Hillside High School's Chapter "United Voices" was established by the hard work of ESL and World Language Director Ms. Okparaeke, Language teacher Ms. Andino, Principal Mr. Woolard (may he rest in peace), and more! This was an absolutely beautiful ceremony, thank you to everyone involved and shout out to Acting Superintendent Dr. Pérez, as well as the Hillside Board of Education members in attendance.
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #hispanichonorsociety #hillsideone #studentsfirst #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities #worldlanguages
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #hispanichonorsociety #hillsideone #studentsfirst #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities #worldlanguages
Happy Administrative Professionals/Secretaries Day from Hillside Public Schools! National Administrative Professionals Day celebrates the important role of secretaries, assistants, receptionists, and other administrative support professionals! Hillside Public Schools appreciates and thanks all of the Administrative Professionals in our district.
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #administrativeprofessionals #administrators #secretaries #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities #thankyou
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #administrativeprofessionals #administrators #secretaries #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities #thankyou
"Hillside Seniors Lead the Way for Upcoming Volleyball Season!
The Hillside High School boys' volleyball team is set to build on last season’s success, thanks in large part to the leadership and performance of two standout seniors, Aldy Alexandre and Jesus Diaz.
Alexandre has quietly emerged as one of Union County’s most well-rounded players. Last season, he made a strong impact across the board, finishing with 137 kills and 77 digs, while also adding 12 blocks and 20 aces. His ability to contribute in multiple areas makes him a key piece of Hillside’s lineup heading into the new season.
On the defensive side, Diaz continues to anchor the team as libero. A consistent and reliable presence on the court, he led Hillside with 338 digs last year, showcasing his skill and determination in the back row. His leadership and defensive strength will be critical as the team looks to improve and compete at a higher level.
The team’s continued growth is also a reflection of the strong leadership on the sidelines. Head Coach Mohammed, along with Assistant Coaches Christine Graham and Marco Coimbra, have played an important role in developing the program and preparing players to compete at a high level.
With experienced seniors like Alexandre and Diaz returning, Hillside is positioned to take another step forward this season and remain competitive within the conference.
— As highlighted by NJ.com"
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #hillsidehighschool #volleyball #hillsideone #studentsfirst
The Hillside High School boys' volleyball team is set to build on last season’s success, thanks in large part to the leadership and performance of two standout seniors, Aldy Alexandre and Jesus Diaz.
Alexandre has quietly emerged as one of Union County’s most well-rounded players. Last season, he made a strong impact across the board, finishing with 137 kills and 77 digs, while also adding 12 blocks and 20 aces. His ability to contribute in multiple areas makes him a key piece of Hillside’s lineup heading into the new season.
On the defensive side, Diaz continues to anchor the team as libero. A consistent and reliable presence on the court, he led Hillside with 338 digs last year, showcasing his skill and determination in the back row. His leadership and defensive strength will be critical as the team looks to improve and compete at a higher level.
The team’s continued growth is also a reflection of the strong leadership on the sidelines. Head Coach Mohammed, along with Assistant Coaches Christine Graham and Marco Coimbra, have played an important role in developing the program and preparing players to compete at a high level.
With experienced seniors like Alexandre and Diaz returning, Hillside is positioned to take another step forward this season and remain competitive within the conference.
— As highlighted by NJ.com"
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #hillsidehighschool #volleyball #hillsideone #studentsfirst
On Saturday, April 18th, 2026, Toastmasters came to Hillside Innovation Academy to teach participating students how to speak with more confidence, be more precise, and shed shyness when speaking in front of people! Participating students were from Hillside Innovation Academy, W.O.K. Middle School, and Hurden Looker Elementary School. This program was sponsored by Women of Wellness, Inc. Women of Wellness is a group of medical professionals that conduct Saturday programming at Hillside Innovation Academy! Thank you to everyone involved in making this awesome and beneficial program possible, and shout out to Dr. Pérez, and Mr. Salters!
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #toastmasters #hillsideone #studentsfirst
Today, Friday, April 17th, 2026, a group of motivated Hillside High School juniors from the Class of 2027 took their next step toward their futures by visiting William Paterson University! The trip provided students with a firsthand look at college life, academic programs, and the opportunities that await them after graduation!
During the visit, students participated in a guided campus tour, where they explored key facilities including academic buildings, residence halls, and student centers. Admissions representatives shared valuable information about the application process, financial aid options, and the importance of maintaining strong academic performance throughout junior and senior year.
One of the highlights of the trip was the opportunity for students to engage with current college students, who offered honest insights about campus life, balancing academics, and getting involved in extracurricular activities. Juniors were encouraged to begin thinking seriously about their college preferences, career goals, and the steps needed to achieve them.
For many, this experience made the idea of college feel more real and attainable. Exposure to a college environment helped students envision themselves on campus, setting goals and building confidence as they move closer to their senior year.
This trip marks the beginning of an exciting journey for the Class of 2027, as they continue exploring their options and preparing for life after high school!
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #studentsfirst #hillsideone #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities
During the visit, students participated in a guided campus tour, where they explored key facilities including academic buildings, residence halls, and student centers. Admissions representatives shared valuable information about the application process, financial aid options, and the importance of maintaining strong academic performance throughout junior and senior year.
One of the highlights of the trip was the opportunity for students to engage with current college students, who offered honest insights about campus life, balancing academics, and getting involved in extracurricular activities. Juniors were encouraged to begin thinking seriously about their college preferences, career goals, and the steps needed to achieve them.
For many, this experience made the idea of college feel more real and attainable. Exposure to a college environment helped students envision themselves on campus, setting goals and building confidence as they move closer to their senior year.
This trip marks the beginning of an exciting journey for the Class of 2027, as they continue exploring their options and preparing for life after high school!
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #studentsfirst #hillsideone #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities
Thank you to everyone who attended "Spring into Conversation" with Acting Superintendent Dr. Gretel T. Pérez last night, 4/16/2026! Parents, community members, Hillside Public Schools staff, teachers, PTA members, directors, supervisors, administrators, Principals, and Hillside Board of Education members gathered in the board room of Hillside Innovation Academy to have warm, positive conversations with the Acting Superintendent about the direction of Hillside Public Schools District. This event was a success, thank you to all who made this possible including Mrs. Harris, Ms. Rivera, Dr. Pérez, Mr. Defluri, Mrs. Defluri, and more!
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #studentsfirst #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #studentsfirst #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities
Liana Cardoso and Ms. Branch led a wonderful Art Night at A.P. Morris Early Childhood Center last night (4/15/2026) in celebration of World Art Day! 🎨✨ Thank you to all the families who came out and made the evening so special.
A huge shout out to our amazing A.P. Morris teachers for bringing the fun and creativity: Theresa Kennedy, Daisy Pereira, Kyla Cerra, Cortney Badessa, Mariela Garcia, Dennise Ojeda, Sharon Greenblatt, Rebecca Kelly, Jill Sica, Janine Arcuni, Kristina Marte-Metelus, Amatullah Foushee, Katherine Luna, and Grace Ogunnowo!
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #worldartday #artday #studentsfirst #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities
A huge shout out to our amazing A.P. Morris teachers for bringing the fun and creativity: Theresa Kennedy, Daisy Pereira, Kyla Cerra, Cortney Badessa, Mariela Garcia, Dennise Ojeda, Sharon Greenblatt, Rebecca Kelly, Jill Sica, Janine Arcuni, Kristina Marte-Metelus, Amatullah Foushee, Katherine Luna, and Grace Ogunnowo!
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #worldartday #artday #studentsfirst #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities
The Hillside High School Theatre Company (@hhs.performingarts) is proud to present their spring one-act show, The One-Act Play Disaster by Don Zolidis! Join us for this madcap comedy on Thursday, April 30th, 2026, and Friday, May 1st, 2026, at 6:30 pm in the Hillside High School Auditorium. Tickets are $5 in advance and $8 at the door. (Approximate 40-minute runtime).
Pulling off a heist is pretty tough. But that's nothing compared to pulling off an unauthorized adaptation of a popular heist movie onstage. Everything that can go wrong, will go wrong when you've got a light board operator out for revenge, a dollar-store set, and a cast that's a total mess. The smooth-talking con man has crippling stage fright, the acrobat is completely uncoordinated, and the understudy keeps reading all the stage directions out loud. Can the group survive a run-through? It might be a total disaster, but it will definitely be hilarious!
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #hillsidetheatercompany #studentsfirst #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities
Pulling off a heist is pretty tough. But that's nothing compared to pulling off an unauthorized adaptation of a popular heist movie onstage. Everything that can go wrong, will go wrong when you've got a light board operator out for revenge, a dollar-store set, and a cast that's a total mess. The smooth-talking con man has crippling stage fright, the acrobat is completely uncoordinated, and the understudy keeps reading all the stage directions out loud. Can the group survive a run-through? It might be a total disaster, but it will definitely be hilarious!
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #hillsidetheatercompany #studentsfirst #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities
On Thursday, April 9th, 2026, students from Ms. Sala Della Cuna's Hillside High School Film Production class were awarded Best Representation of Theme for their short film, "Going, Going, Gone", at the 18th Annual Kent Place Film Festival! Student filmmakers included Tyler Washington, Maximo Balladares, Tyler Childs, Giovanny Jean Jaques, Tressy Jean-Baptiste, Brian Thomas, and Aaron White. The film's director, Tyler Washington, attended the event on behalf of his group! Outstanding work, film students!
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #hillsidehighschool #kentplacefilmfestival #studentsfirst #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities
Hillside High School students had an unforgettable time exploring, learning, and creating lifelong memories during the spring break trip to Spain and Italy! From new cultural experiences to meaningful connections, this journey truly brought learning beyond the classroom to life! Follow @hillsideabroad for more updates and future travel opportunities! Shout out to Ms. Andino, Mr. Skelton, and more Hillside High School staff for making these trips possible.
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #spain #italy #hillsidehighschool #studentsfirst #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #spain #italy #hillsidehighschool #studentsfirst #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities
At Deanna G. Taylor Academy, (DGTA) under the dedicated leadership of Mrs. Fernandes in Science Enrichment, students are experiencing the full journey of food production through their hydroponics program: from seed to harvest, and ultimately, from hydroponics lettuce to lunch!
In their hydroponic system, students are growing fresh, healthy lettuce without soil—using nutrient-rich water and carefully controlled conditions. This hands-on learning experience allows students to explore plant biology, sustainability, and innovative farming methods in a meaningful and engaging way. Each day, they observe how light, water, and nutrients work together to support plant growth, building both scientific understanding and real-world problem-solving skills. What makes this program truly special is that students don’t just learn about science—they live it. They take part in planting, monitoring growth, recording data, and harvesting the lettuce once it is ready. The excitement reaches its peak when the fresh greens make their way from the hydroponic system straight to the cafeteria, where they become part of a healthy school lunch!
This initiative, led by Mrs. Fernandes, helps students understand where their food comes from while promoting healthy eating habits and environmental awareness. It also fosters responsibility, teamwork, and pride as students see the direct impact of their efforts.
From hydroponics to lunch, this program is more than a science lesson—it’s a celebration of innovation, sustainability, and student achievement!
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #hydroponics #schoollunch #studentsfirst #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities
In their hydroponic system, students are growing fresh, healthy lettuce without soil—using nutrient-rich water and carefully controlled conditions. This hands-on learning experience allows students to explore plant biology, sustainability, and innovative farming methods in a meaningful and engaging way. Each day, they observe how light, water, and nutrients work together to support plant growth, building both scientific understanding and real-world problem-solving skills. What makes this program truly special is that students don’t just learn about science—they live it. They take part in planting, monitoring growth, recording data, and harvesting the lettuce once it is ready. The excitement reaches its peak when the fresh greens make their way from the hydroponic system straight to the cafeteria, where they become part of a healthy school lunch!
This initiative, led by Mrs. Fernandes, helps students understand where their food comes from while promoting healthy eating habits and environmental awareness. It also fosters responsibility, teamwork, and pride as students see the direct impact of their efforts.
From hydroponics to lunch, this program is more than a science lesson—it’s a celebration of innovation, sustainability, and student achievement!
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #hydroponics #schoollunch #studentsfirst #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities
The Hillside Public Schools District Board of Education seeks a dynamic educational leader to continue to advance student success for all students! For more information and to apply, please visit hillsidek12.org.
The Hillside Public Schools Superintendent Search Timeline is now available, as well as the Community Input Sessions Schedule, on hillsidek12.org! The Community Input Survey is coming soon. Thank you.
The Hillside Public Schools Superintendent Search Timeline is now available, as well as the Community Input Sessions Schedule, on hillsidek12.org! The Community Input Survey is coming soon. Thank you.
Congratulations to the cast of Radium Girls at Hillside High School, who received four nominations for Montclair State University’s (@montclairstateu) Foxy Awards at their annual Theatre Night Awards that will be held in May! The Performing Arts Club (@hhs.performingarts) is so proud of the 4 cast members: Leilani Ortega, Clyde Gibbons, Kyrene Lugue, and Frantzcheskayla Delma, who were nominated for their performances in this historical drama that played at Hillside High School in December 2025! Shoutout to Hillside High School Performing Arts Director Ms. Pribish!
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #montclairstateuniversity #radiumgirls #studentsfirst #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #montclairstateuniversity #radiumgirls #studentsfirst #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities
Congratulations to all of the Hillside Innovation Academy (HIA) Scholars that were inducted into the National Junior Art Honor Society (NJAHS) on Thursday, April 2nd, 2026! The induction ceremony was beautiful and creative! Shoutout to Hillside Public Schools Acting Superintendent Dr. Pérez, NJAHS Chapter Sponsor and HIA Art Teacher Ms. Therres, HIA co-founder Mr. Salters, and Guest Speaker for the event, Executive Director of Newark Glassroots, Ms. Losos. Fantastic work, HIA students and artists!
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #njahs #studentsfirst #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #njahs #studentsfirst #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities
Congratulations to Hillside Innovation Academy 8th grade student Uwaila Agheyisi! Uwaila was one of seven winners from various New Jersey School Districts in Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. - Zeta Nu Lambda Chapter’s 2026 Stock Market Challenge! The stock market challenge is a premier financial literacy initiative designed to equip middle and high school students with real-world investing knowledge and skills. Held throughout March, this four-week virtual program engaged 96 students registered from across New Jersey and beyond in an interactive experience combining expert-led instruction with hands-on stock market simulation. Participants managed a virtual portfolio of $100,000, gaining exposure to investment strategies, market trends, and financial decision-making. Each winner will receive $100 invested into a custodial brokerage account of their own, providing an early foundation for long-term investing and financial independence!
Please join us on Thursday, April 16th, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. for "Spring into Conversation with Acting Superintendent Dr. Gretel T. Pérez!" This is a wonderful opportunity to connect, engage in meaningful conversation, and learn more about Dr. Pérez’s vision, experiences, and commitment to our school community. Come share your thoughts, ask questions, and help us continue building a strong and supportive school community together! This event will be taking place in the boardroom of Hillside Innovation Academy, 1100 Woodruff Avenue, Hillside, NJ 07205. We look forward to seeing you there!
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #studentsfirst #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #studentsfirst #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities
For its exemplary record of leadership, service, and activities that improve the school and community, the Hillside High School Student Council (@hillsidestuco) has been recognized as a 2026 National Gold Council of Excellence by the National Association of Student Councils (NASC)! The NASC program is supported by its parent organization, the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).
Under the guidance of advisor Mrs. Noreen Deutsch, Hillside High School’s Student Council has achieved significant recognition for its leadership and service. In 2024, the council was honored as a National Council of Excellence by the National Association of Student Councils and in 2025 the council was honored as a National Gold Council of Excellence by the NASC. Additionally, they received the Honor School award for the fifth consecutive year and were recognized for their Student Elections Initiative by the New Jersey Association of Student Councils (@NJASC). Their advisor, Noreen Deutsch, was named the NJASC High School Advisor of the Year for 2022-2023!
"The student council at Hillside High School just pulled off something extraordinary,” said NASSP CEO Ronn Nozoe. “Their student-driven change has earned them national recognition as a National Gold Council of Excellence, proving that when young people are given the chance to lead, they turn their vision into real-world impact.”
A student council must meet a variety of criteria to earn the National Gold Council of Excellence Award. In addition to basic requirements such as a written constitution, regular meetings and a democratic election process, the councils must have demonstrated successful sponsorship and participation in activities such as leadership development and service to the school and community. Great work Hillside High School Student Council!
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #hillsidestuco #studentcouncil #studentsfirst #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities
Under the guidance of advisor Mrs. Noreen Deutsch, Hillside High School’s Student Council has achieved significant recognition for its leadership and service. In 2024, the council was honored as a National Council of Excellence by the National Association of Student Councils and in 2025 the council was honored as a National Gold Council of Excellence by the NASC. Additionally, they received the Honor School award for the fifth consecutive year and were recognized for their Student Elections Initiative by the New Jersey Association of Student Councils (@NJASC). Their advisor, Noreen Deutsch, was named the NJASC High School Advisor of the Year for 2022-2023!
"The student council at Hillside High School just pulled off something extraordinary,” said NASSP CEO Ronn Nozoe. “Their student-driven change has earned them national recognition as a National Gold Council of Excellence, proving that when young people are given the chance to lead, they turn their vision into real-world impact.”
A student council must meet a variety of criteria to earn the National Gold Council of Excellence Award. In addition to basic requirements such as a written constitution, regular meetings and a democratic election process, the councils must have demonstrated successful sponsorship and participation in activities such as leadership development and service to the school and community. Great work Hillside High School Student Council!
#hillsidenj #hillsidepublicschools #hillsidestuco #studentcouncil #studentsfirst #newpride #newpathways #newpossibilities
