Hillside opened its doors in the fall of 2001. During it’s 15 years, Hillside leadership and staff are known for being leaders in academic innovation through the implementation of Balanced Literacy, Content Teacher Specialization, STEM Lab, Science & Artist Days and our Character Education program. We are continuously looking for proven methods, which will challenge our students academically and emotionally.
Hillside celebrates its diversity with 16 countries being represented along with 14 foreign languages being spoken. We believe that our diversity allows our students to develop an understanding of different backgrounds and learn to function in a multicultural, multiethnic environment. At Hillside, we work to create a positive environment where students and teachers respect these differences and children feel valued. To help honor this diversity, our PTA and school partner together to host an amazing International Night with food, dance and cultural experiences.
Hero the Husky, our mascot, as been with us since 2001. He was born in Alaska, but was separated from his family during a terrible snowstorm. After the snowstorm, he met a young wolf pup and became a member of his wolf pack. The other wolves teased and bullied Hero because he wasn’t a wolf. When a massive blizzard struck, Hero used his survival skills to guide the wolf pack to safety. After this, Hero was respected for his bravery and became a celebrated member of his pack. His story was featured on WDOG, Hillside’s TV News Channel. Because Hero was a diligent leader, who showed perseverance and a commitment to his community, Hillside asked Hero to become its Ambassador and mascot. We are so happy that he said yes and became a member of our Hillside Community. He visits throughout the year, but loves to make an appearance at Open House and other special events.
Our murals throughout the school are unique to Hillside. These murals, which were a donation from our PTA, not only continue the theme of being a Hillside Husky, but also warm our school hallways. We have murals in the front entrance, main hallway, the gym and the media center.
Hillside was the first elementary school within FCS to implement a content band specialization at the elementary school level. This innovatative scheduling allows our teachers to become “content specialist” in math, language arts and science/social studies. To learn more about our innovative schedule and academics, Academics.aspx.
In 2016-2017, we are focusing on implementing our Personalized Learning Plan in the classroom. To learn more, Hillsides Personalized Learning Plan.