Hillcrest High School

Terrible administration. Would absolutely not recommend sending your children here.

I’ve been at this school since kindergarten. Now I’m a 8th grader and this is my final year at this amazing school. I’ve learned a lot and how the community grows in faith. However this school is unfortunately closing forever, it is very heartbreaking knowing that this school is a team and family. Take one thing away from this is that if this school reopens again I would recommend this school. I will be going to Townsend Harris High School. Love you St Nicks!

As someone who worked in this charter school, I think many parents assume a charter school is automatically better because of the name. The reality is often much more complicated.Many students in the lower grades arrive unable to read, count, or grasp basic concepts. Some are still learning English and aren’t being taught in their native language. Imagine trying to learn math when you don’t fully understand the language your teacher is speaking.At the same time, teacher turnover is incredibly high. There were days when I felt like I wasn’t doing enough for my students and wanted to quit. Many teachers are overwhelmed, burned out, and simply trying to make it through the year.People don’t always realize that many charter schools hire teachers who are not yet fully certified. For some, it’s a stepping stone to gain experience before moving on to districts that offer better pay, better benefits, and more stability.The issue isn’t the students they deserve every opportunity to succeed. The issue is that the challenges are often much greater than parents realize, and the “charter” label alone doesn’t guarantee a better education.