HAS October 2026 Newsletter

Since September, we have been thrilled to welcome Mr Logan Castro back to the 1571 building as our new Head Custodian! Mr Castro is already a familiar and friendly face around our halls, having previously served as the safety and security monitor at HAS and three other district schools. In his new leadership role, he will be overseeing facilities across three schools and guiding our dedicated custodial team to keep our environment safe, clean, and welcoming. We are confident that his strong familiarity with our community and proven commitment to our schools will make this transition a seamless success. Please join us in giving Logan a warm welcome back!

☕Drinks Edition🥤

📐Geometry: Students explored fundamental elements such as points, lines, and planes, applied the Segment Addition Postulate, measured angles, and utilized the Midpoint Formula. To ensure success with these topics, students also completed a great amount of algebra review so they could tackle complex algebraic equations embedded within geometry problems, such as those encountered when working with the Segment Addition Postulate. Additionally, students leveraged the Pythagorean Theorem to visually and algebraically conceptualize the Distance Formula, practiced hands-on segment and angle constructions, and explored real-world applications like determining how airport runways are numbered.

📈Probability & Statistics: Students built essential numerical fluency and data reasoning through foundational operations and probability concepts. They practiced fluency in converting and calculating freely between fractions, decimals, and percents, and explored the fundamental differences between mathematical expectation (theoretical probability) and actual outcomes (experimental probability) by conducting a digital spinner experiment using a computer app. Furthermore, students calculated and analyzed the likelihood and outcomes of compound events and applied this using M&M's for their "What's in the Bag" project.

➗Algebra 2 Throughout October, students in Mrs Fern’s Algebra 2 class focused on mastering systems of linear equations by exploring the three core methods of solving them by graphing, substitution, and elimination. After building a solid foundation with two-variable systems, students challenged themselves to level up their problem-solving skills by applying the substitution method to more complex systems of three equations. As they continue to sharpen their algebraic fluency, students are preparing to take on the ultimate test of their techniques by tackling three-equation systems using elimination in the upcoming lessons.

💻Computer Science Students in Mrs Fern’s Computer Science class engaged in a dynamic blend of technical skill-building, creative design, and reflective writing. Alongside progressing through their core Code.org programming lessons, students utilized Canva to create visual projects aligned with Hillcrest Academy South's schoolwide observances such as Hispanic Heritage Month, Week of Respect, Breast Cancer Awareness Week, School Violence Awareness Week, and Red Ribbon Week. Tying their learning directly back to the school community, students also drafted thoughtful reflection questions for the HAS Newsletter structured around the district theme, "Every Voice is a Key." As an exciting hands-on bonus to cap off the month, students put their design skills to the test through their monthly 3D printing challenge, bringing their custom 3D-printed fidget spinners to life.

According to the District "Welcome Back" Newsletter, this year's theme, Every Voice Is A Key, is a reminder that every student, family, and partner who walks through our doors brings something worth unlocking. We can't wait to see what we open together in 2026–27. Our goal this year isn't only to open new doors for our students, it's to help our students learn to open those doors themselves, so they leave us not just having walked through a door we opened, but knowing how to open the next one on their own. This marking period the sub-theme is Sharing. HAS students are working on reflection questions with the theme of having an Open Voice and sharing what they are actively bringing to HAS!

• What respect looks like to me in daily interactions is to wait for people to finish when they talk, always be kind to people, and be calm when speaking. In my opinion, respect is deserved not earned. You should not have to do something to gain respect. It's something you should have the moment you are born. -IF
• Respect shouldn't have levels to it and very age should be treated with respect. It seems that the world is convinced that people are different because of the color of their skin, judging others because of how they look or their gender. Instead, it needs to to teach how to de-escalate things and help shape the kids and the next generation. The truth is we all are human, we just need to do better in terms of teaching our kids respect and actually caring for them. They would all appreciate that much more. - DJ

• Ways that being open about your values can help build a respectful and safe environment is to set boundaries for yourself and to respect yourself. When dealing with other people, all parties know each others boundaries so a healthy and safe environment can exist. This can help everyone from hurting or making someone uncomfortable or unhappy. - DB
• It can help by making clear expectations such as boundaries so others know limits. This allows people to be able to build trust so they are aware and eventually rely on you. It can also allow people to feel comfortable and accept situations instead of being misunderstood and feel judged. - RF

• How I think I can actively stand up against bullying to ensure every voice in my school community feels heard and valued is to speak up for what I know is right and wrong. I believe that no type of bullying is right. - JM
• I can actively stand up against bullying to ensure every voice in my school community feels heard and valued by speaking up against the bullying that's happening. For example, if someone is talking about their hobbies that people make fun of and they're getting laughed at, I'll speak up. I'll tell them that's not right and that it probably took them a lot of courage to talk about this and your making fun of them, you wouldn't want somebody to do it to you. I'd want the person talking to be comfortable. - JS

Every week, HAS students come together with students from Westlake for a spirited game of basketball that goes far beyond athletic competition. This recurring game has become a cherished tradition, fostering deep friendships, inclusivity, and mutual respect on and off the court. As students pass, shoot, and cheer each other on, the gym transforms into a space of pure encouragement where skill levels take a back seat to teamwork and joy. Through these weekly games, HAS students and their peers at Westlake build a strong bond of empathy and community spirit, proving how the power of sports can bridge differences and bring people together.

Students immersed themselves in a vibrant celebration of Hispanic Heritage, participating in a full day of dynamic, hands-on cultural activities designed that was organized by our Spanish teacher Sra. Flores. Throughout the school day, classrooms transformed as students rotated from station to station, diving into interactive games, crafting traditional art projects, and singing along to regional music. The engaging schedule gave everyone a multi-sensory journey through the rich history, traditions, and diverse cultures of the Hispanic world.

The highlight of the event for many was the opportunity to sample delicious traditional foods, bringing authentic flavors directly into the learning experience. Sra. Flores's thoughtful agenda not only made Hispanic Heritage Month memorable and fun, but also fostered a deeper appreciation and respect for Hispanic culture across the entire school community.

During the Week of Respect, HAS students engaged in daily activities and personal challenges designed to foster kindness, responsibility, and unity throughout the school community. The week kicked off on Monday, October 5th, with students wearing blue ribbons and challenging themselves to spread positivity by giving someone a compliment. On Tuesday, students demonstrated their dedication to a safe and clean environment by signing a Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB) oath for the hallway and taking time to tidy up communal spaces. Wednesday highlighted student voices as volunteers recited inspiring quotes about respect at the start of each period. This was paired with a challenge to share feelings of gratitude with friends. On Thursday, students reflected on what respect means to them through a guided writing prompt on Dr. B’s Google Classroom while focusing their actions on being helpful team players. Finally, the week concluded on Friday with a vibrant school spirit day in which students wore school colors and expressed heartfelt thanks to the staff members who keep HAS running every day.

Throughout Breast Cancer Awareness Week, HAS students and staff united in honor of those who have fought and continue to fight breast cancer through a series of engaging daily activities and school spirit challenges. Each student was handed a breast cancer awareness bracelet to wear every day, with an opportunity to check in daily with Ms. V to earn a participation reward for continuous support. Additionally, homerooms competed in a weeklong spirit contest to win a special treat, earning points tracked daily on a leaderboard near Mr. DiOrio’s desk based on student and staff participation in thematic dress-up days. The week kicked off on Monday, October 12, with Breast Cancer Awareness Bracelet Day, followed by "Say 'Peace Out' to Cancer" tie-dye outfits on Tuesday, "Pajamas for a Cause" comfortable fits on Wednesday, and "Team Up Against Breast Cancer" sports or superhero shirts on Thursday. The celebration culminated on Friday with Wear Pink Day, which granted double points for the homeroom competition and brought the entire school together in a vibrant show of solidarity. Congratulations to Mrs Flores homeroom for winning the competition!

In observance of School Violence Awareness Week, HAS students and staff participated in a series of meaningful events and spirit days centered on fostering a peaceful school environment. The week launched on Monday, October 19, with everyone receiving white ribbons to wear throughout the week as a visible sign of unity. On Tuesday, the school celebrated "Hats Off to Peace" by wearing their favorite hats, while students new to HAS since the previous October began adding their handprints to the "26-27 HAS Peace Wall" to signify their personal commitment to nonviolence. Thursday highlighted student voices as they recited powerful peace quotes from famous figures, alongside placing orders for the "Pizza for Peace" event. The week concluded on Friday with a schoolwide spirit day where students and staff wore white, peace symbols, positive messages, or HAS shirts, all while coming together to enjoy their delivered "Pizza for Peace."

Adding a handprint to the HAS Walls of Peace serves as a powerful symbol of unity, connecting students past and present in a shared, lasting commitment to harmony and safety across the school community. As part of School Violence Awareness Week, this time honored tradition invites new students to leave their mark, officially joining the HAS family as permanent advocates for a safe and welcoming environment. Each vibrant handprint on the wall stands as a personal promise to uphold kindness, reject violence, and protect the peaceful environment that every student deserves. Through this collective display of solidarity, the HAS family reinforces a legacy of mutual support, ensuring that the promise of peace remains an enduring part of the school's identity for generations to come.

In observance of Red Ribbon Week, the nation’s largest and longest running drug awareness program honoring the memory of DEA Agent Enrique "Kiki" Camarena, HAS students and staff united from October 26 to October 30 to promote healthy, drug-free choices. To show solidarity, each student received a red ribbon to wear daily, with opportunities to check in with Ms. V each morning to earn a special participation reward for wearing their pin and joining in the school spirit days. The week's daily themes began on Monday, October 26, with "Make a Difference. Be a Hero. Stay Drug Free," where students wore superhero shirts or HAS colors. On Tuesday, students highlighted the theme "Stay Focused on Your Education!" by dressing in college or career outfits. Midweek self-care took center stage on Wednesday with positive self-talk and cozy pajama fits, before the school community came together on Thursday to "Unite for Safe & Drug Free Schools" by wearing red.

A representative from the Youth Climate Institute (YCI) recently visited Mrs. Arora’s science classes to introduce students to this impactful national leadership program. The YCI empowers teens through hands-on education in climate science, environmental justice, and real-world sustainability solutions. The presentation highlighted how the program helps students turn environmental awareness into action, paving pathways toward future green careers and connecting them with a national network of peers and professional mentors.

Throughout the school year, HAS students will engage directly with YCI’s dynamic curriculum by participating in interactive climate sessions, monthly group activities, and community service hours. Working individually and collaboratively, the students will design and execute their own group action projects, with the opportunity to complete a capstone project to earn official YCI certification with honors. By taking part in this nationwide initiative, Mrs. Arora's classes will lead local environmental stewardship efforts, leaving a positive, lasting impact on both their school and community.

A firefighter from the Westfield Fire Department visited Mrs. Arora’s science classes to give students an engaging, hands-on lesson in essential fire safety practices. During the interactive presentation, the firefighter emphasized the critical role that properly maintained smoke detectors play in early detection, while demonstrating how keeping bedroom and hallway doors closed can significantly slow the spread of smoke and flames during an emergency. Students also learned about the various types of fire extinguishers and the proper techniques required to operate them effectively. Bringing the lesson to life, the visit concluded outside, where several students gained valuable hands-on experience by practicing how to aim and discharge a water fire extinguisher.

As we get closer to Halloween, Ms V, in a fun way to get students excited for the holiday, posted some "Spooky" Surveys on Dr. B’s Google Classroom. Students got to answer:

• Which staff member is most likely to survive in a horror movie?
• Which staff member is most likely to say "be right back!" and go investigate a noise in a horror movie?
• Which staff member would be the first to realize they're in a horror movie?
• Which staff member would have the most ridiculous survival plan? (in the horror movie they've found themselves in)
• Which staff member would survive the whole horror movie, only to come face to face with the monster in the last 5 minutes?
• Which staff member would be the first to say "I should have stayed home today."
• Which staff member would survive the horror movie purely out of luck?
• Which staff member would be the plot twist villain?

On Friday, October 30th, while the students are dressed in their magnificent costumes, the results of these surveys will be posted for everyone to see, so stay tuned for the November newsletter where we will post the final answers. In the mean time, what would your answers be? Do you think they would match our students' answers?

Don’t worry we’ll be right back........

Hillcrest Academy South Campus is an alternative high school for students from the Elizabeth Public School District. Students are referred to HAS by their Elizabeth Academy guidance counselor and administration for an interview at HAS. We provide a small educational learning setting with opportunities to make up courses through our Credit Retrieval Program in a caring environment in order to meet Elizabeth’s graduation requirements.

Website: www.ucesc.org

Instagram: ucesc_has

Facebook: Hillcrest Academy South
Location: 1571 Lamberts Mill Road, Westfield, NJ, USA-Door 3B
Phone: 908-233-9317