Dear Hillcrest Families, 

Welcome to the 2024-2025 school year! I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am thrilled to embark on this journey with you and your children. As we enter this new school year, our commitment to providing a nurturing and inspiring learning environment remains steadfast. Throughout the year, we will focus on cultivating a culture of curiosity, respect, and academic excellence. 

Our teachers, support staff, and front office staff have been busy preparing classrooms and gathering resources to support your children's instruction. Our hard-working and conscientious custodians have spent the entire summer thoroughly cleaning the facility, and our much-appreciated Hillcrest PTO and the School PBIS Universal Team are gearing up to welcome families, provide volunteer opportunities, and offer exciting events and programs for all our students. 

In addition, I would like to thank our main office staff, who worked with me behind the scenes to prepare for the new year. Their support and dedication are greatly appreciated.

The first day of school for grades K-5 will be Thursday, September 5th. The first day of school for Pre-K will be Monday, September 9th. Before school starts, please review the guidelines for a successful year, as outlined in the Hillcrest Parent Handbook posted on the school website. Preparedness is essential!

Information regarding your child’s teacher, bus information, lunch forms, and emergency forms will be posted in Genesis. We ask that all families complete and return the Free/Reduced Lunch paperwork, as it aids the district in receiving state funding. Please log into your Genesis Parent Portal account to receive all this critical information. The district will communicate when Genesis will be accessible to families as it is still in summer mode. School Supply Lists are available by grade level on the HIL website. Please remember to label all of your child’s removable clothing, as well as their book bag and snack box or bag. This helps the student and staff keep track of belongings.

Communication is a key pillar of our school community, and we encourage open dialogue to ensure a successful partnership. Our school website, weekly newsletters sent via email, and regular parent-teacher meetings will inform you about important events, updates, and your child's progress.  You may also access the newsletter on our school social media accounts and the Hillcrest Website.  

This year's theme is “Hillcrest School is a CommUNITY of learners!” Every member of the Hillcrest community is a learner; administration, faculty/staff, parents, and students...we are all in this TOGETHER!

The start of each new school year brings excitement and enthusiasm, and we look forward to filling the school’s halls and classrooms with your children. My door is always open, and I genuinely welcome your input and support. If you need anything, I can be reached at lvaccaro@franklinboe.org  or 732-246-0170. 

Thank you for your partnership. On behalf of the Hillcrest School community, I would like to express our gratitude for your support. We hope to see you and your children soon!

Warmest Regards,

Lorri Vaccaro