Skip to main content

Hillside Public Schools

The Mission for Science Instruction

The Science Department is committed to ensuring that all students are actively engaged in meaningful scientific learning. Through equitable access to rigorous, New Jersey Student Learning Standards–aligned instruction, we cultivate curiosity, critical thinking, and a deep appreciation for the sciences. Our instructional approach emphasizes science and engineering practices, inquiry-based learning, and real-world problem solving, empowering students to build the knowledge and skills necessary for success in college, careers, and an increasingly STEM-driven world.

Vision
Our vision is to develop scientifically literate students who think critically, ask questions, and apply scientific reasoning to understand and improve the world around them. Through a coherent K–12 science program, students engage in hands-on investigations and collaborative learning experiences that deepen their understanding of life, physical, and earth sciences.

At the elementary and middle school levels, students explore science through OpenSciEd, a research-based, NGSS-aligned curriculum that has received top ratings from EdReports, promoting inquiry, collaboration, and phenomenon-driven learning.

At the high school level, students participate in laboratory-based courses including Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Environmental Science, while also having opportunities to explore advanced pathways through electives such as Project Lead the Way Engineering, Computer Science, and Biomedical Sciences.

Together, these experiences prepare students to become innovators, problem solvers, and informed citizens ready to pursue futures in science, engineering, technology, and related fields.

Links & Resources

Login to Clever to access instructional science resources such as Savvas, Foss, Activate Learning and MyPLTW!

Science Department Goal

Prepare students to become scientifically literate individuals who can effectively:

  1. Strengthen Evidence-Based Scientific Thinking by engaging in scientific reasoning using evidence, data, and models to explain phenomena and support claims.
  2. Implement Consistent Three-Dimensional Science Instruction by providing students with coherent, standards-aligned instruction that integrates disciplinary content, science and engineering practices, and crosscutting concepts across all grade levels.
  3. Build Strong Scientific Communication and Discourse by developing students’ ability to communicate scientific ideas clearly through speaking, writing, modeling, and discussion using academic language and evidence.

If you have questions or comments, please reach out to the Science Supervisor,

Core Instructional Resources

  • K-4 Full Option Science System (FOSS)
  • 5-8 Open Sci Ed
  • Biology : Savvas Miller & Levine Biology Program
  • Chemistry: Active Chemistry  & NJ Center for Teaching and Learning 
  • Physics : Active Physics & NJ Center for Teaching and Learning 
  • Environmental Science : Pearson Your World Your Turn