Student success at Hillsides Education Center is measured on an individual basis in several areas including: academic progress; developmental growth; personal commitment and accountability; social functioning; and self-sufficiency (for troubled teens). Our special education teachers test children semi-annually on their academic progress using the standardized Kaufman Test of Educational Achievement. Students are also tested annually using the Woodcock Johnson Achievement Test to determine their individual educational needs, administered by a trained Instructional Aide. Each special education student maintains an Individual Educational Plan which includes information on their education program, school work, attitude, behavior, social interactions, etc.

We wanted to share some of our success stories that make us feel extremely proud of our students’ accomplishments and our staff’s commitment.

2010 HEC Graduation

Text From Joe Costa's Blog: Today is a wonderful day at Hillsides, in particular for all the staff at Hillsides Education Center, who dedicate year after year to working with our students in providing them a quality education. Today is a day to acknowledge our students for the great work that they’ve done and one of the greatest accomplishments they have achieved—graduating from high school.

We had the opportunity to listen to six graduates share their stories and give thanks to those individuals that brought comfort, attention, and education. While some students might have been with us for one year or fifteen years, each graduate has become a young man or woman. They have matured to become heartfelt individuals with diverse talents and abilities. Though they have encountered many challenges, they have also achieved great things they can be proud of: the ability to express themselves, be a role model to younger students, bring laughter to someone’s life, and simply find their voice.

We couldn’t be prouder of them and are excited about their future. Hillsides will continue to care and be a supportive community for them and we are confident of their future success. A hearty congratulations goes out to the students and another one to the staff, parents, and community for dedicating their time, attention, and resources in meeting academic needs and providing enrichment opportunities for our students throughout the year.