• At Hillcrest, we believe that communication is a vital part of the educational process.  We have an open door policy.  Most concerns and misunderstandings can be taken care of with a simple telephone call, conversation, or question.  Such communications need to take place between staff and students, staff and parents, staff and administration, parents and administration, and counselors, etc.

     

    To maintain open communications, we encourage parents to contact staff in the order of priority listed below:

    1. Call the teacher:  for information about academic progress, homework expectations, behavior, etc. in that teacher's class.

    2. Call the counselor:  for information about school-wide testing, overall performance, placement, or scheduling.

    3. Call the assistant principal or principal:  about general concerns, general questions, or policies.

     

    Hillcrest uses a wide variety of methods to communicate with parents:

     

    Teacher Initiated Communication: Hillcrest believes that proactive, early communication enables all parties to work together effectively to address any concerns, whether academic or social/emotional. In addition, teachers must notify parents if students are in danger of failing.

    Current access to classroom information, such as homework, test dates, class notes, etc, is available on your students Canvas page or in Power School.

    Hillcrest Happenings:  One of our most important publications!  This newsletter is sent electronically every week and it contains information such as: departmental academic updates, Team Updates, nurses information, CIP Updates, Sports Updates, and Club Updates.

    Recognition Letters: Throughout the year various parents and students will receive written communications from Hillcrest staff recognizing positive contributions their students have made.

    Informational Meetings:  Special meetings such as Meet the Teacher Night and the Spring Fling are designed to give parents the opportunity to meet all staff members and to showcase Hillcrest's programs.

    Conferences:  The first method for solving problems or concerns, are conferences with the teacher, the team, or the counselor. If not resolved, then campus administration will intervene.  Conferences are either arranged by the school staff or requested by the parent calling the counselor.  There are two designated parent/teacher conference dates; however, conferences are to be scheduled as needed throughout the year.  The dates are on the Hillcrest Calendar and reminders will be in Hillcrest Happenings.

    Special Needs/Accommodations:  For students experiencing significant academic or behavioral issues, special contracts, plans, and support can be arranged.  Please contact the school nurse, counselors, student's service coordinator, special education strategist, or administration.

    Parent Group + Continuous Improvement Team:  Parents and community members are encouraged to communicate and be actively involved at Hillcrest through membership in the HMS parent group. and/or the Continuous Improvement Team.

    Communication Forums: All stakeholder groups are provided on-going opportunities to engage in two-way dialogues with campus administration regarding the continuous improvement of HMS programs and services.