"Breakfast With Santa"

On Saturday December 15 Hillside Catholic Academy conducted "The Initial Breakfast With Santa." This was a pancake breakfast put on by the Grade students and their parents. The parents cooked the meal and the students served our guests. Santa himself even made a visit! The proceeds of this event went towards the Grade 8 class trip to Rocking Horse Ranch.

"The Nutcrakcer" and "The Radio City Christmas Show"

On Monday December 3, 2007 students in Grades Kindergaren, 1,2, and 3 attended a performace of the "Nutcrakcer" at Kean University in Union, New Jersey. On Thursday December 13, 2007 students in Grades 4,5,6,7,and 8 attended a performance of the Radio City Music Show. A wonderful time was enjoyed by all. Class trips such as these are all part of the, "quality education," provided by Hillside Catholic Academy.

"Christmas Drives"

Hillside Catholic Academy is dedicated to living the social gospel. During the Christmas season we will be involved in two charity drives. First, is the Holy Childhood Mission Drive. This goes to funding poor children through out the world. Second, we are collecting wool hats and gloves. These will be given to a homeless shelter in Elizabeth, N.J. These drives are part of the, "quality education in a faith based environment," that a child receives at Hillside Catholic Academy.

"Honor Roll"

Hillside Catholic Academy has published the students who have attained Honor Roll status. Students who have achieved First Honors have a straight A average. Students who have achieved Second Honors have a B+ or B average. Students on the Effort Roll are those who have worked to the best of their ability. These students are all examples of the, "quality education," at Hillside Catholic Academy

"Parent-Teacher Conferences"

Hillside Catholic Academy will conduct Parent-Teacher Conferences today and Monday December 10. The conferences today will take place from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The conferences Monday will take place from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. These are an excellent opportunity for parents to get to talk to their child's teacher about their progress. Communicaiton between the parents and teachers is one of the reason Hillside Catholic Academy is able to provide a, "quality educaiton."

"Christmas Show"

Tonight The Fourth Annual Hillside Catholic Academy Christmas Show will take place. Christmas songs will be sung. A play giving tribute to St. Nicholas will be performed. The show will conclude with the Grade 8 students telling the Christmas story. The Christmas show is part of the, "faith based education," at Hillside Catholic Academy

"Advent"

We are now in the season of Advent. During this holy time the school will get ready for Christmas. Each day Advent Wreath will be lighted. We will begin school with a special Advent prayer. The school will also be involved in two charity drives. All are these are part of the "faith based education" at Hillside Catholic Academy.

"Thanksgiving"

Hillside Catholic Academy resumed classes after the Thanksgiving break. The students contributed over seventy bags of groceries to St. Joseph's Mission in Elizabeth, N.J. The school celebrated a Thanksgiving Prayer Service before leaving for the holiday. All of these are examples of the "quality education in a faith based enviornment" at our school.

"The Social Gospel"

Hillside Catholic Academy teaches the Social Gospel. This is evident by our recent charity drives. During Halloween, our students collected $750 for U.N.I.C.E.F. Our Thanksgiving Food Drive contributed 70 bags of groceries to St. Joseph's shelter. These type of activities are examples of the, "faith based," education at Hillside Catholic Academy.

"Home and School Association"

Every parent/guardian of a Hillside Catholic Academy student is a member of the Home and School Association. On Thurday November 15 the Hillside Catholic Academy H.S.A. met for the second time this year. The new report card, the "Safe Touching Program", and upcoming H.S.A. events were discussed. The next genearl meeting of the Hillside Catholic Academy H.S.A. will be late next winter.

"C.O.O.P.Examination"

On Friday November 9, 2007 the Grade 8 students at Hillside Catholic Academy took the C.O.O.P. Examination. These tests are used by Catholic high schools to determine acceptance. They also serve as the assessment tool for Grade 8. The result of these tests over the past three years are proff of the, "quality educaiton", at Hillside Catholic Academy.

"Veterans Day"

On Friday November 9, 2007 Hillside Catholic Academy conducted, "The Fourth Annual Veteran's Day Assembly". Retired Sgt. Richard Stanton spoke on the topic of, "Women in the Military." It was an excellent presentation. This is another example of the, "quality education",at Hillside Catholic Academy.

"All Souls Day"

On Friday November 2 Hillside Catholic Academy celebrated "All Souls Day". The names of the faithful departed were read at the morning prayer service. Later that morning we celebrated First Friday Mass. This dedication to prayer is part of the "faith based environment" at Hillside Catholic Academy.

"All Saints Day"

On November 1, 2007 Hillside Catholic Academy conducted the "Fourth Annual Saints Alive Festival". Members of our Grade 5 class played the role of various saints. They told about their lives and their faith journey. This was put together by our Grade 5 teacher Mrs. Roseann Aaagaard. Events like this are all part of the "faith based education" at Hillside Catholic Academy.

"'Craft Fair"

Today Hillside Catholic Academy conducted it's "Initial Craft Fair". Over 25 tables of various crafts were presented. This event was put together by the Hillside Catholic Academy Home and School Association. Every parent is a member of ouur Home and School Association. The Home and School Association is the fund raising arm of Hillside Catholic Academy.

"The Eve of All Hallows"

Today October 31 Hillside Catholic Academy celebrated Halloween. Grades Pre-K, K, 1,2, and 3 dressed in their coustumes. Grade 4,5,6,7,8 had a 'dress down day'. All classes celebrated with class parties. Grades Pre-K, K, 1,2,3 paraded around the school. Grades 4,5,6,7,8 enjoyed an assembly with a magician. An enjoyable time was had by all.

"Halloween Party"

On Saturday October 27 Hillside Catholic Academy's Home and School Association conducted the "Fourth Annual Christmas Party." Students and their parents in Grades Pre-K, K, 1,2,3,4,5 were dressed in a variety of costumes. They trick or treated at tables, played games, drew pictures, and had alot of fun! Many thanks to our Grade One parents who put this event togehter.

"Halloween Dance"

The Initial Halloween Dance will take place at Hillside Catholic Academy tonight. Students in Grades 6,7,8 will celebrate the coming of the Halloween season. A D.J. and light refreshments will be provided. Social gatherings like this are all part of the, "quality eduction in a faith-based enviornment," that is at Hillside Catholic Academy. Many thanks to our Grade Seven parents who put this event together.

"Scholastic Olympics"

Today Hillside Catholic Academy competed in the Roselle Catholic Scholastic Olympics. Grade 8 students Ashley Anthony and Jamar Grant placed. Ashley Anthony placed second in the Science competition. Jamar Grant placed second in the Art competition. The success of these students is another example of the, "quality education in faith-based environment" at Hillside Catholic Academy.

"Progress Reports"

This year every student at Hillside Catholic Academy will receive a Progress Report. These reports will be distributed at the halfway point of each Trimester. The Progress Reports will serve as communication tool between the parents and the teacher.

"Smile Please"

Today is Picture Day at Hillside Catholic Academy. Photo - Life, Inc. will be at the school taking pictures of all classes and faculty members. Now the, "quality education in a faith-based environment," at Hillside Catholic Academy will be captured on film.

"The Living Rosary"

Today Hillside Catholic Academy will conduct The Fourth Annual Hillside Catholic Academy Living Rosary. The students in Grades 6,7,8 will form a rosary and the school shall recite the prayer. This statement of devotion to the Blessed Mother of God is a statement. It is a statement of the, "quality eduaction in a faith-based environment," Hillside Catholic Academy provides.

"Yearbook"

Hillside Catholic Academy's Yearbook Committee met for the first time this year. The yearbook theme and various assignments were discussed. The yearbook will capture all the activities that help Hillside Catholic Academy provide, "a quality education in a faith-based environment."

"Pumpkin Picking"

Kindergarten,Grades 1,2,3 went pumpkin picking on Monday October 15. The students travled to Wightman's Farms in Morristown, New Jersey. The students were accompanied by their teachers and many parents. They picked pumpkins, feasted on doughnuts and cider, and enjoyed themseleves! Class trips are all part of the, "quality education in a faith-based environment," that is at Hillside Catholic Academy.

"Family Math"

Last night Hillside Catholic Acadmey conducted it's "Initial Family Math Night" . Ten Hillside Catholic Academy families did math problems, played math related names, and had fun. The lessons for the evening were provided by the Union County Educational Commission. This innovative program is yet another example of the, "quality education in a faith-based environment", at Hillside Catholic Academy.

"Book Fair"

Tonight Hillside Catholic Academy will conduct it's Initial Book Fair at Barnes and Nolbe Book Store Route #22 in Springfield, New Jersey. The Choir and Forensics teams will perform. Students, parents, and members of our staff will be able to shop off of a school, 'wish list.' A part of the proceeds will be returned to the school. This is another example of the "quality education in a faith-based envioroment" a student gains at Hillside Catholic Academy.

"Back to Work"

Hillside Catholic Academy returns to work today from the long Columbus Day weekend. The school was closed last Friday. The teachers attended professional development workshops on assessment and writing. Professional development is another example of how Hillside Catholic Academy provides a, "quality educaiton in a faith-based enviromnent"

"Grade 8"

The members of the Hillside Catholic Acadmey Grade 8 attended a Day of Recollection at Union Catholic Regional High School on Thursday September 27. The student were given presentations on leadership. This was a wonderful opportunity for the students to see what high school life is really like. Days like these are all part of the, "quality education in a faith-based enviornment" at Hillside Catholic Academy.

"High School Fair"

On Monday evening September 24 Hillside Catholic Academy conducted it's Fourth Annual "High School Fair". Grade 8 students and their parents reviewed displays from the following Catholic high schools.
Academy of St. Vincent
Benedictine Academy
Christ the King Prep
Marylawn of the Oranges
Mother Seton Regional High School
Roselle Catholic Regional High School
St. Benedict's Prep
St. Mary's of Elizabeth
Union Catholic Regional High School

Providing students and their parents with this type of information is another example of the, "quality education in a faith-based environment" that Hillside Cathoic Academy is so proud of.

"Grade 8 Parents Meeting"

On Monday evening September 24, 2007 the Fourth Annual Grade 8 Parents Meeting will take place. The following will be discussed:
1. COOP Examination
2. High School selection
3. Class trip
4. Fund raising
5. Graduation

All Grade 8 parents are expected to attend.

Regional Principal's Conference

On Thursday September 20 Mr. Michael Butchko, Principal of Hillside Catholic Academy, will be attending the Regional Principal's Conference. This is a meeting of all of the principals of the Archdiocese of Newark. This is evidence that all members of the Hillside Catholic Academy community are involed in professional development. This is another example of the, "quality education in a faith-based environment," that is provided by Hillside Catholic Academy.

"Back to School Night"

On Monday evening September 17, 2007 Hillside Catholic Academy conducted its Fourth Annual "Back to School Night". The parents/guardians of our students heard presentations from their child's teachers. One important question was answered;
"What does my child need to do to be successful in this class.' Information was also shared on the new report card and grading system.

"Home and School Association"

Every parent/guardian of Hillside Catholic Academy is a member of the Home and School Association. The Home and School Association is an important arm of the school responsible for fund raising and school activities. The first General Assembly Meeting took place on Thursday evening September 13. The first Home and School Association Event will take place on Sunday September 16. The Annual School Picnic. Dedicated parents help to make Hillside Catholic Academy a school which produces a "quality education in a faith-based environment."

"Future Musicians"

Today Hillside Catholic Academy will host an assembly program conducted by Future Musicians Inc. Students who are interested will be able to take part in the Hillside Catholic Academy "Jam Band". Dedication to the arts is another example of how Hillside Catholic Academy provides a "quality education in a faith-based environment."

"Remembering September 11, 2001"

Yesterday Hillside Catholic Academy paid homage to the heroes of the September 11, 2001 attack yesterday. A momement of silence was observed at 8:46 a.m. when the first tower was attacked. The moment of silence was concluded with the September 11th Prayer. Prayer is the center of our life. It is part of the, "quality education in a faith - based environment, " at Hillside Catholic Academy.

"First Full Day"

On Monday September 10, 2007 full day classes began at Hillside Catholic Academy. This year Spanish will be taught to the entire school. A new computer class has also been added. This will be taught in the school's new computer room. One day a month a Health class will be taught. All of these changes are made to insure that Hillside Catholic Academy continues to provide, "A quality education in a Catholic environment."

"Meet the Teachers"

Students at Hillside Catholic Academy got a taste what the school year will be like. Each student has met their teacher(s). The supplies they will need, the way they will be graded, the classroom rules are being covered. The first full day of school will take place on Monday September 10, 2007.

"Another Opening"

Hillside Catholic Academy opens for the 2007-2008 school year today. The school will conduct half-day sessions on today, Thursday, and Friday. Dismissal will be 12:00 p.m. for Pre-K and Kindergarten. Grades 1-8 will be dismissed at 12:15."

Sister Louise Cababe

Sister Louise Cababe was the Assistant Superintendent in charge of Curriculum and Testing. She was a mentor, a friend of Hillside Catholic Academy, and above all a teacher. A teacher of students. A teacher of teachers. A teacher of administrators. A remarkable teacher. Sister Louise knew testing and curriculum inside and out. However, Siste Louise taught her greatest lesson in the way she lived her life. She was caring, giving, a teacher. Sister Louise was always there to assist me. In fact, Sister and I spoke several times this summer on the new Report Card. She was a valuable resource and never too busy to answer any question. Sister Louise was called home to a loving God on Thurday August 23, 2007. Although she will no longer be here on earth her presence will always be with all of us who were lucky enough to have known her.

"School is out for summer"

Hillside Catholic Academy concluded it's third year today. During the summer our office will be opened Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 9:00 p.m. -12:00 p.m.
School will resume on Wednesday September 5, 2007.

"The Final Days"

Hillside Catholic Academy is preparing to conclude it's third year of existance. Today teachers and students will clean and organize their classrooms. The various classes will conduct their class parties. School will close for the students on Friday June 15 at 12:15 p.m.

"Kindergarten Graduation"

This morning Hillside Catholic Academy conducted it's Kindergarten graduation ceremony. This ceremony took place at Christ the King Church. A light reception followed.

"Pre-K Graduation"

Hillside Catholic Academy's Pre-K conducted it's Graduation Ceremony this morning. To be part of our Pre-K a child must reach the age of 4 by October 1.

"Year's end is in sight"

The end of the 2006- 2007 school year is in sight. This week full day classes will be in session on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. On Thursday and Friday there will be an early dismissal. School will dismiss for the summer on Friday June 15 at 12:15 p.m.

"The Class of 2007"

Tonight Hillside Catholic Academy conducted it's Third Annual Commecement ceremony. The Class of 2007 distinguished itself. Over $60, 000 in scholarship money was earned. Two full academic scholarships were awarded. Twelve students were admitted into the Union County Magnet High School. The Class of 2007 is a real life example of the, "quality education in a faith based environment," provided by Hillside Catholic Academy.

"Sports Night"

Hillside Catholic Academy conducted it's Third Annual Sports Night. The accomplishments of our student athletes were celebrted. The Girls Varsity basketball team came within one point of capturing the Catholic Surburban League Championship. The athletic program is part of the, "quality education in a faith based environment" provided by Hillside Catholic Academy.

"With the Help of God"

The Third Annual Hillside Catholic Academy Graduation Mass took place on Wednesday night June 6, 2008. The liturgy was celebrated by Fr. Aurelio Yanez, pastor of St.Catherine of Siena parish. The homilist was Msgr. Venantius Fernando, pastor of Chrirst the King parish. The students performed their class song, "Unwritten". They also presented roses aod thank you notes to their parents for their support.

"The Final Push"

The students at Hillside Catholic Academy have begun their final push. Final Examinations have begun in Grade 5. Grades 6,7,8 will begin their Final Examinations on June 6. The end of the school year is in sight.

"Farewell Dance"

Hillside Catholic Academy conducted the Grade 8 Graduation Dance on Friday June 1. The students were joined by their parents for the first hour. It was a time to enjoy the music, dance and celebrate!

"Graduation"

The excitement of Graduation is here at Hillside Catholic Academy. Today the Grade 8 students received their autograph books, yearbooks, caps and gowns. The Third Annual Hillside Catholic Academy Commencement Ceremony will take place on Friday June 8 at 7:00 p.m.

"Graduation is around the corner."

Today the Grade 8 students conducted the first of two days of Graduation
Rehearsal. The students are preparing for the Graduation Mass that will take place on Wednesday June 6. They are also getting ready for the Graduation Ceremony that will take place on Friday June 8. It is an exciting time at Hillside Catholic Academy.

"Grade 8 Final Bow"

Today Hillside Catholic Academy Grade 8 students began their Final Examinations. The students took finals in Language Arts, Math, Religion,Reading, Science, and Social Studies. The students took two examinations each morning. The Class of 2007 was a academic success with twelve being admitted to the Union County Magnet High School.

"Walk for Success"

Today Hillside Catholic Academy conducted the Third Annual Hillside Catholic Academy Walk-A-Thon. The students obtained pledges with the promise to walk laps. The money raised from this will help Hillside Catholic Academy supply, "a quality education in a faith based environment."

"Awards Ceremony"

This afternoon Hillside Catholic Acadmey conducted it's Initial Awards Assembly. Awards were presented to those students who excelled in the varios Catholic Schools Week competitions, Geography competition, and Science Fair.

"End of the year approaching"

Hillside Catholic Academy is getting ready for the close of the 2006- 2007 school year. Among the events to take place in the following weeks are:
1. Grade 8 Final Exams
2. Athletic Night
3. Graduation Dance
4. Grade 8 class trip
5. Graduation Mass
6. Graduation Ceremony
7. Final Exmaniations for Grades 5,6,7

To quote the poet, "miles to go before we sleep."

"Dress Down Day"

Hillside Catholic Academy students who attain Honor or Effort Roll status are allowed to dress down today. This is to reward these students for a job well done during the Third Marking Period. It is all part of the, "quality education in a faith based environment" Hillside Catholic Academy provides

"King Tut"

The Grade 7 students of Hillside Catholic Academy today visited the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. They took in the exhibit of King Tut. This class trip is an annual event under the direction of Ms. Lynn Zientek Grade 7 homeroom teacher. This trip is another example of how Hillside Catholic Academy strives to provide a, "quality education in a faith based environment."

"Science Fair"

The Third Annual Hillside Catholic Academy Science Fair took place on Wednesday May 16, 20007. Students presented projects based on Earth, Life, and Physical Science. This event was put together by Miss Stacey Barker Grade 6,7,8 Science teacher. Events like the Science Fair are part of the, "quality education in a faith based environment" that is provided by Hillside Catholic Academy.

A New Approach

Hillside Catholic Academy, like all of the schools of the archdiocese of Newark, will be on a trimester schedule next year. A new report card will be used. Mr. Michael Butchko, principal of Hillside Catholic Academy attended a meeting of all principals of the archdiocese on Tuesday May 15. This new approach will assist Hillside Catholic Academy's mission of, "a quality education in a faith based environment."

"Mother's Day at H.C.A."

Hillside Catholic Academy's Grade 8 student hosted a pancake breakfast for Mother's Day. Guest were treated to pancakes, waffles, bacon, eggs, muffins, and toast. This was a fund raiser for the Grade 8 class trip. It also was a special treat for the mothers of our school.

"God's plan for your life"

Hillside Catholic Academy's Grade 8 students attended the Third Annual Retreat. This was conducted by Mr. Allan Wright of the Religion Department of Union Catholic Regional High School. Mr. Wright discussed what God had planned for their lives in high school. This day is an important part of the faith based education Hillside Catholic Academy provides.

"Art Show"

The Third Annual Hillside Catholic Academy Art Show will take place tonight. The students will have thier work of art on display. The talent of the Hillside Catholic Academy students is quite evident. Dedication to the arts is part of the,"quality edcation in a faith based environment", at Hillside Catholic Academy.

"Effort Counts"

In addition to the First and Second Honor Roll Hillside Catholic Academy a student can attain the Effort Roll. This is for those students who have worked to the utmost of their ability. Encouring students to do their best each day is all part of the "quality education in a faith based environment" provided by Hillside Catholic Academy.

"Dedication to the arts"

Hillside Catholic Academy has a dedication to developing the entire student. This includes the arts. This proven by the fact Grade 8 students Emilie Burke, and Angela Corpus, and Grade 7 student Megan Conovas now have their work on display through out Union County. The achievements of these students is another example of the, "quality education in a faith based environment" provided by Hillside Catholic Academy.

"Shall We Dance?"

Developing the entire student is a goal of Hillside Catholic Academy. With this in mind the school conducted a Spring dance on Friday May 4. Eighty students and eleven chairpones enjoyed the music, each others company, and danced the night away. Developing the entire person is all part of the "quality education in a faith based environment" provided at Hillside Catholic Academy.

"Alumni Success"

One of the thing Hillside Catholic Academy is proudest of is the success of it's graduates. 20% of our graduates have attained Honor Roll status at their high schools. Many of our alumni have attained success in other areas. One example of this is Kathryna Corpuz. Kathryna is a freshman at Mother Seton Regional High School. Kathryna is an accomplished pianist. She has performed in many differnt at the Mother Seton Talent show. She will also perform at the State Teen Arts Festival on May 23. Kathryna is an example of the type of student Hillside Catholic Academy creates.

"It is the little 'extras'

Hillside Catholic Academy receives extra services from the following. Nursing services from the Hillside Board of Health. From the Union County Educational Commission it receives money for textbooks and technology. It is the small 'extras' that enables Hillside Catholic Academy to provide "a quality education in a faith based environment."

"A Catholic tradition lives on"

Hillside Catholic Academy continues a tradition as a Roman Catholic religious instituiton. Students in Grade 2 receive instructions prior to their First Holy Communion. Members of Christ the King parish made theirs on Sunday April 29, 2007. Members of St. Catherine's of Sienna parish will make theirs on Sunday May 6, 2007. Students in Grade 8 receive instruction prior to their confirmations. Members of St. Catherine's of Sienna parish will make receive the sacrament on Saturday May 5, 2007. Members of Christ the King parish will receive the sacarament on Sunday May 20, 2007. This preparation is all part of the quality education in a faith based environmet at Hillside Catholic Academy.

"If it is Spring can the Spring Concert be far behind?"

The Third Annual Hillside Catholic Academy Spring Concert took place on Friday evenging April 27. Under the director of Mrs. Lisa Carroll Pena the students treated the auidence to a varieity of songs and musical performances. Each student at Hillside Catholic Academy takes Vocal Music once a week. It is this dedication to the arts that enables Hillside Catholic Academy to provide, " a quality education in a faith based environment."

"Find out about Hillside Catholic Academy"

You are invited to come and find out about Hillside Catholic Academy at our Open House. This will take place on Wednesday May 9, 2007. It will begin at 7:00 p.m. in the school gym. A tour of the school will take place. This will be followed by a brief presentation. For more information call 908-686-6740.

"Grade 5 students D.A.R.E. to be great"

The Grade 5 students in Mrs. Roseann Aagaard's class took part in the D.A.R.E. graduation ceremony on April 24. The students were presented with t-shirt and wrote essays about why they will remain drug free. According the officials in the Hillside Police Department their essays were the best of any in the school district. This just another example of the "quality education" that a student receives at Hillside Catholic Academy

"Using what you learn"

The faculty of Hillside Catholic Academy recently learned how to create Power Point programs. Now the teachers are developing Power Point Programs that they will use in their classrooms. These programs will maintain the "quality education" Hillside Catholic Academy provides.

"Part of the parish community"

HIllside Catholic Academy is the parish school for both Christ the King and St. Catheine of Sienna in Hillside, New Jersey. Mr. Michael J. Butchko principal of Hillside Catholic Academy conducts semi-annual meetings with each pastor. He also delivers an annual report on the school to the parishes. Being part of these two wonderful parishes is what makes the creates the faith based environment that Hillside Catholic Academy is so proud of.

"Keeping up with the times"

Professional Development is a most important part of life at Hillside Catholic Academy. Today members of the faculty took part in professional development provided by the Learning Edge. The teachers were taught the ins and outs of producing a Power Point presentation. Keepin up with current educational trends is what helps Hillside Catholic Academy provide, "a quality education in a faith based environment."

"Professional Development for Everyone"

Professional development is something everyone at Hillside Catholic Academy takes seriously. Mr. Michael J. Butchko Principal of Hillside Catholic Academy is no exception. Mr. Butchko attended his third National Catholic Educators Association annunal convention from April 10 - April 13. The convention took place in Baltimore, Maryland. Mr. Butchko attended conference sessions and discussed new materials with vendors. Keeping up on current trends in eduction is what helps Hillside Catholic Academy to provide, "a quality education in a faith based environment."

"The Living Stations"

The students at Hillside Catholic Academy concluded the Lenten season by praying the Stations of the Cross. The Way of the Cross was depicted with Grade 8 students playing the roles. The stations were also accompanied with meditations that related to the day to day lives of the students. This powerful presentation is yet another example of the "quality education in a faith based environment" provided by Hillside Catholic Academy.

"Getting the Yearbook Ready"

Members of the Class of 2007 are busy getting the school yearbook ready. The book contains memories of their time together. It is an interesting look back at where the students have been.

"Faculty Day of Recollection"

Today the faculty of Hillside Catholic Academy joined the faculties of five other Catholic elementary schools at a Day of Recollection. Taking time to be refreshed with God is an important part of our teachers formation. The fact that the faculty takes part in such a day is another example of the "quality education in a faith based environment" that Hillside Catholic Academy provides.

"Cursive Anyone"

The Hillside Catholic Academy students in Mrs. Judy Jones' Third Grade are now writing in cursive. They began the year taking their spelling tests in cursive. By this time of the year everthing the students write will be in the cursive writing style. The Third Grade students will also be writing book reports. This is because at Hillside Catholic Academy good writing starts with reading. This is all a part of our "quality education."

"Hillside Catholic Academy in the Computer Age"

Hillside Catholic Academy is moving towards placing computers in its course of study. A new computer lab for Grades Pre-K to 4 will be opened. Power Point will be placed on each computer. Finally, projectors for the teachers to show power point slide shows will soon be purchased. By making use of technology, Hillside Catholic Academy will continue to provide "a quality education in a faith based environment."

"Plans for Next Year"

The Archdiocese of Newark's Schools Office has provided a new course outline for Science. In this exciting proposal, Science is to be taught on all grade levels and crossing all courses of study. Hillside Catholic Academy is already making plans for next year. This new look at this discipline will help Hillside Catholic Academy to maintain its "quality education."

"A Faith Based Education"

The faith-based education of Hillside Catholic Academy is no more evident then in Mrs. Pat D'Agostino's First Grade class. This week the students learned how they should honor their mothers and fathers by helping out at home. It is because of the example of Mrs. D'Agostino's teaching that one student is currently taking instructions in the Catholic faith. It is this "faith based environment" that makes Hillside Catholic Academy such a special place.

"Reading, Reading, Reading"

Students at Hillside Catholic Academy are expected to read. The students are required to:

1. Complete a Summer Reading Assignment, plus write book reports throughout the school year;
2. Write Book Reports throughout the school year; and
3. Have a "Silent Reading" book with them at all times.

Miss Lynn Zientek (Reading teacher) stresses the importance of reading each day in her class.

"Science in the Pre-K"

Students in Mrs. Christine Paszkowski's Pre-K class are learning about the volcanoes. Even at this early age students at Hillside Catholic Academy are introduced to the wonders in the World of Science.

"Grade 5 Measures the Climate"

Miss Roseann Aagaard's Grade 5 Science class is studying the weather. The students are making use of the following tools:

1. The daily newspaper;
2. The Weather Channel; and
3 Their textbooks.

However, the greatest aid these students have is Mrs. Aagaard. She is truly a dedicated teacher who makes each class exciting, meaniful, and fun!

"Study Skills Are Skills for Life"

Students in Miss Maddelena Mazzoccoili's Study Skills class are learning how to outline sections of a textbook. Grade 8 students will be now using this skill by outlining sections of their Social Studies and Science books. Mastering this type of basic skill is one example of how Hillsdie Catholic Academy provides, "a quality education."

"Get Ready for High School"

The students in Grades 1-7 took the Terra Nova Standardized Tests this week. Grade 8 students took part in a week of high school preparation.

On Tuesday, March 6, Dect. Wilson of the Hillside Police Department discussed legal issues facing high school students today.

On Wednesday, March 7, Mr. Ken Jennings (Assistant Principal Benedictine Academy) discussed tips for academic success in high school.

On Thursday, March 8, Mr. James Reagan, Sr. (Director of Athletics at Union Catholic High School) spoke of the role of extra-curricular activites in high school.

On Friday, March 9, those students who will attend a Catholic high school had breakfast with their new principals. The principals or a member of the staff of the following high schools were present:

Benedictine Academy;
Mother Seton Regional High School;
Roselle Catholic Regional High School;
St. Benedict's Prep;
St. Mary's of the Assumption in Elizabeth; and
Union Catholic Regional High School.

"Hillside Catholic Academy Students Prepare for Science Fair"

Students in Grades 6, 7 snd 8 received their instructions for the Hillside Catholic Academy Science Fair. These students, under the direction of Miss Stacey Barker, will be conducting experiments by making use of the Scientific Method. The Science Fair will take place on May 18 from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.

"A Traditional Education in the Modern World"

On a recent visit to Hillside Catholic Academy, Fr. Kevin Hanbury (Superintendent of Schools and Vicar of Education for the Archdiocese of Newark) noted that Hillside Catholic Academy was "one of the few school which still teaches Geography." This is because at Hillside Catholic Academy we stress the basics. All of this is consistent with our mission to offer a "quality education in a faith based environment."

"What Hillside Catholic Academy is"

Hillside Catholic Academy is a co-joined Catholic Elementary School. Hillside Catholic Academy was formed by the merging of Christ the King and St. Catherine's of Sienna Elementary schools. In April of 2004, Mr. Michael J. Butchko was named principal.

Hillside Catholic Academy is a co-educational school. It offers Special Classes in the following areas:
Art
Geography
Library
Music
Physical Education
Spanish
Study Skills
Vocabulary
Writing

Religion is taught to all students. Hillside Catholic Academy offers "A quality education in a faith based environment."

"Hillside Catholic Academy Gives in the Catholic Tradition"

You may have heard the expression, "To those who much is given much is expected." This could be the motto of Hillside Catholic Academy. This year we have broken records in our giving. Hillside Catholic Academy raised $2,500.00 with our U.N.I.C.E.F. Halloween drive. During our Thanksgiving Food Drive, we contributed to the Hillside Food Pantry, stocking it with enough food to feed many, many families.

We are now preparing to take part in the St. Jude's Math-a-thon. The children will do Math problems and raise money for St. Jude's Children's Hospital. By taking part in these worthy causes Hillside Catholic Acadmey lives the words of Jesus, "When you do this for one of the least of my brothers you did it for me."

"I am Glad I chose Hillside Catholic Academy"

Why should you select Hillside Catholic Academy for your child? Let Mrs. Martina Zimmerman answer that question for you. "My son Marcus, is so far ahead of his classmates in high school. It does not matter the subject be it Social Studies, or Math." "Not only that, he is a disciplined well-grounded young man." "Hillside Catholic Academy prepared him to be an excellent high school student." This is what makes Hillside Catholic Academy such a special place. It truly provides, "A quailty education in a faith based environment."

"Hillside Catholic Academy Joins the Blogging World"

Today Hillside Catholic Academy begins a new adventure. The opening of our blog! This is entitled "Today at H.C.A." We will provide daily highlights of the many exciting accomplishments of the students and faculty at Hillside Catholic Academy. It is my hope you will visit our blog many times and learn about why we are so proud of our school.

"A Quality Educatioin in a Faith Based Environment"

As we progress this school year Hillside Catholic Academy has much to be proud of. In particular, we are proud of the performance of our Grade 8 students. On the COOP Examinations 20% of them scored higher than they were predicted to. Our Grade 8 students have been accepted to the following Catholic high schools: Benedictine Academy, Mother Seton Regional High School, Roselle Catholic Regional High School, St. Benedict Prep, St. Mary's in Elizabeth, and Union Catholic Regional High School.

We are equally proud of the our alumni. 20% of our alumni have attained Honor Roll status at their high schools. All of this continues to prove Hillside Catholic Academy provides a quality education in a faith based environment.