Core Curriculum & Student Learning

Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA) / Caminos

Our literacy instruction focuses on developing strong readers, writers, speakers, and critical thinkers.

Students engage in:

• Foundational reading skills, phonics, and reading fluency

• Vocabulary development and reading comprehension

• Writing across the curriculum

• Speaking, listening, and meaningful academic discussions

• Building knowledge through literature and informational texts

Our goal is to ensure that every student develops a strong foundation in literacy and a lifelong love of reading.

Illustrative Mathematics (IM)

Our mathematics instruction encourages students to think critically, solve problems, and communicate their mathematical reasoning.

Students develop:

• Number sense and mathematical fluency

• Problem-solving and critical-thinking skills

• Conceptual understanding of mathematical ideas

• Mathematical discussions, collaboration, and reasoning

• Real-world applications of mathematics

We encourage students not only to find the correct answer but also to explain how and why their mathematical strategies work.

Science

Exploration, Investigation & Discovery

Our science instruction is aligned with the California Next Generation Science Standards (CA NGSS) and encourages curiosity, exploration, and hands-on learning.

Students explore:

• Life Science

• Physical Science

• Earth and Space Science

• Engineering and Scientific Practices

Through investigations, observations, experiments, and collaborative discussions, students learn to ask questions, analyze evidence, and better understand the world around them.

History & Social Science

Understanding Our World and Community

Our history and social science curriculum helps students develop an understanding of themselves, their communities, and the world.

Students explore:

• History and geography

• Citizenship and civic responsibility

• Cultures, traditions, and diversity

• Communities and their contributions

• Critical thinking and historical perspectives

We encourage students to appreciate different cultures, respect others, and become responsible, informed members of their communities.

English Language Development (ELD)

Supporting Our Multilingual Learners

At Hillside, we celebrate the languages, cultures, and experiences our students bring to our school community.

Through integrated and designated English Language Development instruction, our English Learners receive targeted support to strengthen their academic language skills.

Students develop:

• Listening and speaking skills

• Academic vocabulary

• Reading and writing proficiency

• Confidence in classroom discussions

• Language skills needed for success across all subjects

Our goal is to ensure that every English Learner has access to rigorous instruction and the support needed to achieve academic success.

Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)

Second Step®  Building Kind, Confident, and Responsible Learners

At Hillside Elementary, we believe that students learn best when they feel safe, supported, valued, and connected to their school community. Through the Second Step® Social-Emotional Learning curriculum, students develop essential skills that help them manage emotions, build positive relationships, and navigate everyday challenges.

Students learn to:

• Recognize and manage emotions: Understand their feelings and develop healthy strategies for expressing them.

• Demonstrate empathy and kindness: Recognize and respect the feelings and perspectives of others.

• Build positive relationships: Practice communication, cooperation, and friendship skills.

• Make responsible decisions: Solve problems, make thoughtful choices, and take responsibility for their actions.

• Develop resilience and confidence: Learn strategies for overcoming challenges and persevering through difficult situations.

Our social-emotional learning instruction supports Hillside's schoolwide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) expectations, known as our Four B's:

Be Safe • Be Kind • Be Respectful • Be Responsible

By strengthening both academic and social-emotional skills, we help students become confident learners, caring classmates, and responsible members of our community.

Personalized Learning & Academic Support

Meeting the Needs of Every Learner

At Hillside Elementary, we recognize that every student has unique strengths, interests, and learning needs.

Our teachers use classroom assessments, student work, and instructional data to monitor progress and provide meaningful academic support.

Our instructional approach includes:

• Small-group instruction and differentiated learning

• High-dose tutoring

• Individualized support based on student needs

• Enrichment opportunities for continued growth

• Ongoing progress monitoring and assessment

• Collaboration among teachers, support staff, and families

We are committed to ensuring that every student receives the instruction, encouragement, and opportunities needed to reach their full potential.

Our Commitment to Every Student

At Hillside Elementary, we are dedicated to educating the whole child by building strong academic foundations, nurturing social-emotional growth, and creating a welcoming environment where every student feels a sense of belonging.

Through high-quality instruction, supportive relationships, innovative learning opportunities, and strong family partnerships, we prepare our students to become confident learners, responsible citizens, and lifelong thinkers.

Every student matters. Every day is an opportunity to learn, grow, and soar!

Hillside Elementary School — Together We Soar!