Comprised of diverse cultures, customs, and needs, Hilldale School believes that its likenesses unite and its differences enrich all aspects of the learning setting. Its goals are to build character, respect diversity, and instill in students a life-long commitment to learning. Hilldale School has received a Best Practice Award from the State Department of Education for its fourth grade cookie project. The school has also received grants from the Montville Education Foundation to fund projects in literacy, map skills, and technology.
The Hilldale staff, proactive partners with parents and the community, creates an environment in which all individuals can achieve their potential. A hands-on inquiry approach using technology and learning manipulatives is employed in the learning process. Journals, writing workshop, and Family Math Nights, Alpha Smarts, Smartboards, Math 24, the “Battle of the Books”, the Science Fair, are used to increase and improve student skills. The Hilldale Book Express, a publishing center run by parent volunteers, turns student stories into bound computer-printed books. Support services include basic skills instruction, speech, resource room, the gifted and talented enrichment program, occupational therapy and physical therapy. Students are involved in community visitations, concerts, art exhibits, and physical education demonstrations. The learning process enables students to access and use information necessary to become creative and contributing members of society.
In addition, Hilldale’s REACH, DARE, and anti-bullying programs foster student responsibility and teach decision-making skills. Student volunteerism enables students to work collaboratively. Older students help younger peers adjust to the school routine by organizing games at recess and helping in the classroom. Reading buddies and peer tutoring are two of our most popular activities. Social service projects sponsored by the Student Council include a food and clothing drive, a drug awareness exhibit at a local pharmacy, a math-a-thon, recycling projects, and a variety of fund raising activities.
The Hilldale Parent-Teacher Council, dedicated to the enrichment of the educational environment, remains generous with its time, support, and funds in helping to maintain a quality program at Hilldale. The HPTC successfully raised enough money this year to fund special classroom projects, computers for the media center, TV and DVD players for ten classrooms, and resource materials requested by grade level teams. Cultural arts programs, the Fun-Fair, and bi-annual book fairs are also sponsored by the HPTC. On-going communication between staff and parents is the key to making Hilldale School such a special place for students.
The Hilldale School staff members, students, and parents, who believe that our likenesses unite and our differences enrich, are committed to providing an educational program and facility that maximize opportunities for learning and meets the changing needs of the school community.
Marianne M. Dispenziere, Principal
973-808-2040
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