Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year!
There is nothing quite like the beginning of a new school year! Soon, our halls will be filled with laughter, curiosity, a little anxiety and the energy that only the Hillside Blue Jays can bring! A new school year is more than a new beginning—it is a promise of possibility, a new opportunity to make a difference, inspire a child, ignite a dream, and make a lifetime impact on a child, family and community. Last year was a year of listening, learning, building relationships, and gentle leading. Together, we made meaningful progress, strengthened our connection with families, and welcomed our community into the Blue Jay Nest.
As a school community with high expectations, we saw growth in our daily student attendance and student performance. We engaged our families and established partnerships with members and organizations from the Hillside community. While we are not yet where we want to be academically, we are making intentional strides to meet our students where they are as we move forward in our mission of empowering and preparing every student for success through equitable learning opportunities and experiences. We will not settle for good when our children deserve excellence. We will continue to strengthen teaching and learning and create opportunities that ensure every student is seen, valued, supported, and empowered to reach their fullest potential.
This year, our commitment is captured in three powerful words that begin with EVERY:
Every Student. Every Opportunity. Every Day.
Every Student — We will see the child, recognize their strengths, honor their individuality, and believe in their possibilities.
Every Opportunity — We will open doors for students to learn, discover, lead, create, and grow.
Every Day — We will show up, give our best, and remember that the difference we make today may last a lifetime.
So, let’s all commit to do our part. Parents, your presence, encouragement, engagement, involvement and belief that together, we can - matters. Our Staff is prepared and ready to work. Together, we can give our students what they need to soar. I truly believe that Hillside students deserve our best today-not someday. They cannot wait for change to come tomorrow. We are all more than able, capable, and hopefully willing to do what we can to make this an extraordinary year of learning, growing, and connecting for our Blue Jays!
Again, welcome back Blue Jays and let’s get ready to soar!
Yours in Education and Blue Jay Proud,
Dr. Antonia Lippitt-Hill
Superintendent.