General Info:
LEARNING IS COOL AT HILLCREST SCHOOLHillcrest is a kindergarten through second grade school with a population of 310 students. Hillcrest provides students with rich academic and social experiences. Our highly qualified staff of professionals is dedicated to providing all students with a nurturing environment that promotes academic excellence.We use a Balanced Literacy approach to instruction in Reading, Language Arts and Writing. A combination of on-going formative assessment, quality literature and the Workshop model for reading and writing instruction help us provide academic rigor and engaging instruction experiences for students at all levels. Our teachers work tirelessly to foster student love for literature and sustainable growth in reading, writing, speaking, listening, and comprehension. We utilize a continuum based report card as a way to identify student successes while designing a systematic plan for teaching to students needs. The use of the Reading and Writing Continuums helps our teachers and parents utilize common language when setting and supporting learning goals for all students.Everyday Math is the math program used throughout our school that mixes traditional mathematical skills with exciting "everyday" application. This program is highly acclaimed and aligns with NJ Core Curriculum Content Standards. The activities are hands-on and challenge students to use higher-level thinking skills. By design, Everyday Math provides children with several opportunities throughout the school year to be introduced to and master math concepts.Hillcrest provides additional instructional services, including supportive instruction in Language Arts, Mathematics, English as a Second Language, and Bilingual Education.Our special area teachers are extensively trained and very knowledgeable in their areas of expertise. Our Physical Education, Science, Music and Art teachers are able to provide structured and interactive learning in their own classrooms, thereby enhancing the educational experience for our students. Our students have access at home and at school to Rosetta Stone as a way to support world language acquisition.