news

School is a huge part of family and community life. It’s where our children spend their days; it’s where we gather to cheer on the home team, celebrate talent, and promote the pursuit of lifelong learning. Keep apprised of the news and events that affect your family right here on this page. We’ll update it regularly, so be sure to check back often.

Catch Up with the Cubs

Access all of our latest newsletters on the sidebar of this page. Whether you want to catch up on the latest events, important announcements, or upcoming activities, this page is your go-to resource.

Test Talk

The NJSLA-Adaptive Field Test is scheduled for October 28 and 29 at Hillside, only for our grade 4 students (TMS will test on October 29 and 30). Please remind your student(s) to bring in headphones and arrive on time.

Scheduling Reminders

We would like to ask families to avoid scheduling appointments during the school day. We understand, however, that certain appointments may be unavoidable. If an early pick-up is necessary, please avoid arriving during lunch and recess periods:

  • 11:40 a.m.–12:30 p.m. (PreK–Grade 2)
  • 12:40–1:30 p.m. (Grades 3–4)

Thank you for your help as students are transitioning during these times.

Halloween

Hillside School will celebrate Halloween on Friday, October 31. Students are welcome to wear simple costumes to school. To ensure a safe and productive learning environment, please follow these guidelines:

  • Costumes should allow students to wear them comfortably throughout the day and be easy to manage independently (e.g., using the bathroom).
  • We encourage simple costumes. Avoid anything hanging below the wrist or ankle to prevent tripping or getting caught.
  • No costume masks or weapons are permitted.
  • Costumes should be appropriate and not frighten younger students.
  • If your child has physical education on October 31 (D Day), ensure the costume is safe and easy to move in.
  • Weather permitting, students will have recess outdoors.
  • Class parents will provide information about food for classroom activities, which will follow the school nurse-approved list.
  • Do not send in goody bags. They will be returned home.
  • Pre-k students will receive additional details from their classroom teachers.

We hope these guidelines help ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween celebration for all students.

Safety

Let's work together to ensure a safe arrival and dismissal for everyone.

Reminders:

  • When dropping off and picking up students in our active driveways, drivers must remain in their vehicles. If you need to exit your vehicle to assist your child, do not use the drop-off/pick-up line. Park in a designated parking spot. (Kindergarten and grade one students are dismissed directly to an adult. Parents should park and walk to pick up their child.)
  • Students should enter and exit vehicles from the passenger side only.
  • Do not double park or block crosswalks.
  • The front parking lot to the right of the gym, designated as staff only, is not a drop-off and pick-up area. Parents are not permitted to use this parking lot for dropping off or picking up children.
  • Plan ahead! Arriving late not only impacts your child's instructional time but also disrupts that of their classmates. Students must arrive before 8:40 a.m.
  • When arriving early to pick up students, turn your car engine off. Cars should not be left idling.
  • Families are encouraged to walk, ride bikes, or park at Closter Commons.
  • Follow the instructions from our staff and the Closter Police.