National Blue Ribbon Schools Program

At Hillside Elementary School, in Niskayuna, New York, the cultivation of a love for learning for all students is a core belief. Believing that a strong foundation in literacy is essential to academic and career success, and based on New York State’s Common Core Learning Standards, teachers use a variety of research-supported strategies embedded within a balanced literacy model, including reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Hillside's mathematics curriculum engages students in higher order thinking that promotes problem solving through various real-world experiences. Its social studies and science curricula are integrated thematically with language arts and math. Hillside faculty demonstrate a commitment to a well-rounded education through promotion of physical education, experience with technology, and instruction in the arts. They engage in deep, reflective practice and ongoing professional development, which is considered to be a critical component of reaching the school’s mission.

Hillside embraces the philosophy that learning extends well beyond the four walls of the classroom. As a school community, opportunities to learn and grow together are maximized through events such as student-led, monthly all-school gatherings (called, "Hello, Hillside!") where student work is showcased, songs are sung, and character education themes are rooted, or through projects such as the school nature trail and bird garden designed and constructed by students, empowering students to make positive contributions to the environment. With the support of an active and engaged Parent Teacher Organization, community members work together in countless ways to foster an intrinsic enthusiasm and excitement for learning.