HILLSDALE—It’s notable how much time and energy the Hillsdale Board of Education—and its students—are committing to charitable activities this school year. As we reviewed the agenda for the board’s Oct. 14 meeting, run by president Justin Saxon, the depth of the district’s charitable efforts was clear. From food drives and clothing donations to supporting cancer research and local shelters, Hillsdale’s students are making an impact.
The Board of Education will meet Monday to approve a range of student-led fundraising efforts that benefit charities including the Hillsdale Helping Hand Food Pantry, the American Childhood Cancer Organization, and Hoodies for the Homeless. It’s a powerful reminder of how these initiatives are shaping not only the academic experience but also reinforcing the importance of community service.
Along with the usual housekeeping and opportunity for public input, here’s a look at what’s on the 23-page agenda:
Approval of Charitable Fundraising Activities by Students; 2024-2025. The board will consider approving the following student-led fundraising activities for the 2024-2025 school year:
- Bergen County Cereal Drive – Benefiting Bergen County Food Security Task Force
- Red Ribbon Week Food Drive – Benefiting Hillsdale Helping Hand Food Pantry
- Souper Bowl: Food Drive – Benefiting Hillsdale Helping Hand Food Pantry
- Super Hero Food Drive – Benefiting Hillsdale Helping Hand Food Pantry
- Toy Drive – Benefiting PBA & Hillsdale Local Assistance Board
- PJamin Day for Cancer – Benefiting American Childhood Cancer Organization
- Toy Drive – Benefiting Hillsdale Police Department
- Food Drive – Benefiting Hillsdale Helping Hand Food Pantry
- Sweatshirt Donation – Benefiting Hoodies for the Homeless
- Craft Donation – Benefiting Hillsdale House
- Dog Supplies – Benefiting Eleventh Hour Dog Rescue Shelter
- Pajama Drive – Benefiting Scholastic Great Bedtime Story
- Bag A Lunch – Benefiting Table to Table
Also on the agenda, the board will review and likely approve field trip destinations for students, including to the local police and fire departments and the post office.
Certifying votes for school bond
Another key item on the agenda for the Hillsdale Board of Education’s Oct. 14 meeting is the certification of the election results for the special school election held on Sept. 17, which directs the board to modernize the middle school. (See “Voters appear to strongly approve $62.4M George White Middle School overhaul.“) The results will officially be reviewed and certified during the meeting. The voter turnout was 30.23%, with a total of 2,610 votes cast.
Both measures from the Sept. 17 special school election passed. As a result:
- Question 1: The George G. White School will undergo a full renovation, including the rebuilding of the cafetorium/multipurpose room (MPR) and the addition of two new classrooms. Modular, prefabricated classrooms will be used during construction to minimize disruption.
- Question 2: A new two-story wing with six classrooms will be constructed, adding about 30,000 square feet. This wing will accommodate group interaction and STEM/Robotics lessons and will connect the main school building and the gymnasium.
Election figures according to the agenda:
The regular meeting will be held in the George G. White School Cafetorium and livestreamed for public access.