West Orange High School

We love Hillside for its diversity, opportunities, and fantastic staff!

Upon moving to Essex Fells We pulled our children out of private school in Order for them to attend the public school here. We found it superior in all aspects. We particularly like the transparency as well as the extensive resources. The teachers and administration are exceptional. In our experience the community has been warm and welcoming. The school fosters a safe and inclusive environment. Children are encouraged to be free thinkers and helped to advocate for themselves and others and to think outside the box. Academics are rigorous and additional support readily available. The PTA as well as the Essex Fells Foundation for Educational Excellence step in to ensure that the teachers and students have full access to enrichment opportunities that go well beyond the scope of most schools both public and private. We love the art, technology and music exposure as well as the dedicated art therapy program that all the children enjoy. The school plays are exceptional. Although, admittedly, there is no real socioeconomic diversity at this school the students population has evolved to be rich with cultural diversity. Children leave here with fond memories, confident and we’ll prepared to face the social and academic rigors and challenges ahead. The fact that a significant percentage of parents here were once students at Essex Fells school and returned to town once they had children of their own speaks volumes. This school really is a gem.

Our children have thrived at Our Lady of the Lake School for the past 9 years. We can't say enough about how amazing the teachers and staff have been. OLL is a loving, caring environment with outstanding academic achievements. This school has become an extension of our family and we are forever grateful.