Calvin Lofton Honored for Service as Hillside School Board Welcomes New Leadership

Overview: The Hillside School Board meeting celebrated the contributions of outgoing member Calvin Lofton and marked a transition in leadership with the induction of new board members and the election of officers. Lofton was recognized for his service from 2022 to 2024, and the board swore in newly elected members Christian Estrera, Marjorie Hargrave, and Eric Okai. The board also elected Laquana Best as the new president and Jo-Ann Horton-Giv as the vice president.

Hillside School Board Faces Community Concerns Over Tutoring and Student Enrollment Decline

Overview: At a recent Hillside School Board meeting, community members raised concerns over the availability of tutoring services at Hillside High School and a significant decline in student enrollment. These issues highlighted broader anxiety about the district’s management and communication with parents. The meeting also addressed matters such as club activities, discipline record adjustments, and financial strategies for the district’s insurance plans.

Hillside School Board Celebrates Literacy Initiative Amidst Community Concerns and Staffing Challenges

Overview: The recent Hillside School Board meeting highlighted the district’s commitment to literacy improvement through a new reading mentoring program, acknowledged community concerns over social media portrayals, and addressed staffing challenges with 16 current teaching vacancies. Acknowledging achievements and ongoing initiatives, the board emphasized the importance of community engagement and innovative educational practices.

Hillside School Board Faces Scrutiny Over Hiring Practices and Budget Concerns

Overview: During the recent Hillside School Board meeting, attention was focused on controversies surrounding hiring practices, budget allocations, and transportation costs. Concerns were raised over the employment of an individual with a criminal history, budgetary constraints affecting student activities, and the district’s handling of student performance metrics, especially in mathematics and literacy.

Hillside School Board Approves Teacher Contract Amid Staffing and Attendance Focus

Overview: The Hillside School Board meeting tackled issues including the approval of a new teacher contract, challenges in staffing key subjects, and initiatives to enhance student attendance and achievement.