The Hilltop Country Day School

This is why I opted not to return my child last year to the school when I learned that she was made headmaster.
—Submitted by a parent

Laura McGee lacks of leadership, team player and self esteem. I am baffled why she was given responsibility of headmaster. My guess the board decided price over quality of our children s education. It s is difficult to have a serious conversation with her on an important school issue without her bringing her personal misery into the conversation which I find very unprofessional. She has jeopardized Hilltop s future. The school board needs to do a reassessment on Ms. McGee for the sake of our students, school s reputation and future. Overall, there are some outstanding teachers in the school but without leadership from the headmaster this school is spiraling downhill.
—Submitted by a parent

I have never seen 'unhappiness' or 'angry staff raising their voices at children.' Anyone who would say a thing like this obviously has an axe to grind against someone. Small classes is a wonderful thing. Social interaction is not a problem. Older children always help and interact with the younger children. the children in the classes are very close and courteous to one another. It is a wonderful place. People bring their children from as far away as Pennsylvania. This is an outstanding educational institute
—Submitted by a parent

We are a long time family: lower school and upper, even have a graduate. What a program. Strong academics, great preparation, full commitment to the arts.
—Submitted by a parent

My son started out from PK. Outstanding curriculum, caring teachers, good parent involvement, great principal. Although not afiliated with any religion, character building is an actual 'class'. A bit pricey, there are extra charges, and pressure to donate an extra 1K. Leading one to question financial stability. Something other private schools seem to have in spades
—Submitted by a parent

Been at Hilltop the last two years and I can't imagine how it has 'lost its identity' it strikes me as spot on. Wonderful teachers, knowledgeable, caring professionals. Accessible administration, eager to listen. We moved up here from Morris County and it's pretty clear that you can 'steal' a private school education at HIlltop.
—Submitted by Mattie Swink, a parent

Small class size is helpful, but borders on stifling. There has been a lot of change in teaching staff, which feels like Hilltop is going through some major growing pains. School has lost its identity a bit under the guidance of the current headmaster. Hilltop offers a nice variety of after school programs, and makes help available to students who need extra attention.
—Submitted by a parent

Hilltop is truly a community! Everyone cares about the children. The curriculum and individualized attention are excellent.
—Submitted by a parent

Hilltop is top-notch! Our daughter's in Pre-K and had attended three other schools prior to joining HTCDS. This school far-surpasses the others at every level - caring, communicative teachers, challenging, cooperative projects, strong academic foundation building and confident, happy kids.
—Submitted by a parent

Amazing school--talented,loving teachers with continuity at Hilltop---innovative learning---ability to tailor curriculum to children's abilities and interests w/out sacrificing educational goals/quality. Honestly, the best school in Sussex County. Wide range of extras. Parents involved as they want to be.
—Submitted by a parent

Hilltop Country Day is a wonderful community to be a part of. There is support for both parents and children. Classroom teaching is innovative. Teachers are passionate educators. A great place to learn.
—Submitted by a parent

Review of 1st grade. No extra work was given when requested early in the year. Child was way ahead academically from class, was bored stiff.Class size was larger than promised. The Reading program was OK but still was way below the knowledge level of my child. Spelling words too easy. No individualized challenges child to peak interest. However looking ahead the higher grades did look challenging and more on top of curriculum. Music program is great. Perhaps one needed to be a stay at home parent to be involved more in school. AFter school care, all activities $$.
—Submitted by a parent

1. Above average academic programs. 2. Quite a few extracurricular activities. 3. Parents can be involved if they choose to.
—Submitted by a former student

Great School. Great Teachers. Focused on the students.
—Submitted by a parent

Had three children go through the school. Wonderful individual attention. High quality teachers. Imaginative curriculum PS-8th Grade. Outstanding preparation for high school. Graduates are accepted to the top independent schools in NJ and the northeast.
—Submitted by a parent

Not so great after kindergarten. The school is too small and the curriculum is not particularly broad.
—Submitted by a former student

My son attended the Pre-school program and is now moving into pre-kindergarden. This is an incredible school from the small children to teacher ratios, demonstrated commitment to each child, to the facilities which are excellent. Most pre-schools I visited in the area had more of a playgroup feel. While the kids certainly play at hilltop, the teachers ultimately get them to learn all while having fun.
—Submitted by a parent

Excellent school! Lots of indvidualized attention, small classes, caring teachers and administrators. Highly recommend this school!
—Submitted by a parent