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February 3, 2022
Dear Hillside Families,
We have had a fabulous second annual Hillside Racial Equity Day! Today, thanks to the generosity of the Hastings Education Foundation, City Love, a music and education group from Philadelphia, joined us virtually for a very special presentation about belonging, celebrating differences, and standing up for others. Through both dialogue and song, performers spoke about inclusivity and asked students to reflect on a time when they felt that they did and did not belong. Students courageously shared their experiences with our Hillside community. Our performers also talked about differences, and explained that “differences between us are a gift.” Again, anecdotes were shared by presenters and students about race, religion, language, socioeconomics, diet, and more. Our presenters told students, “You are special and we care about you”. The presentation ended with encouraging children to be upstanders if they see someone that is not being treated fairly, kindly, or safely. Students sang and danced along to the upbeat music and powerful messages that City Love shared. It was an inspiring morning that reminds us that we are all better together! It is our plan to have City Love return to Hillside in the spring for an outdoor family concert. Please visit City Love’s Hillside link at https://www.muchcitylove.com/hillside to enjoy their music with your family!
Hillside’s Racial Equity Day sat within our Hastings Racial Equity Week filled with learning, reflection, and fun. Each day, our Safety Patrol began with morning announcements, spotlighting kids who are changing the world by challenging injustice. Classes were provided with a Choice Board of activities including a scavenger hunt of “Gamechangers”, a scientific video demonstration on the science of diversity, sports and games from around the world, a diverse booklist, puzzles, and a playlist of songs whose messaging focuses on togetherness, voice, and love.
Yesterday, in celebration of the 13th annual World Read Aloud Day, students were treated to read alouds that highlighted these important themes of our Racial Equity Week. Along with millions of people in over 170 countries around the world, students enjoyed listening to stories by their teachers and virtual guest readers. Fourth graders were treated to The Pencil by Allan Alhberg read by Farragut Middle School Principal Jennifer Sprielli. Mrs. Spirelli then fielded many questions about what to expect at FMS next year! Third graders listened to Martin’s Big Words by Doreen Rappaport read by Superintendent Dr. Bill McKersie. Dr. McKersie shared a personal story with students of his experience as a third grader attending a march and rally in Chicago with his father. There he had the opportunity to see and hear Dr. King speak. Second graders were excited to listen to The Wall in the Middle of The Book by Jon Agee read by Hillside Principal Amy Cazes. Students reflected together on the author’s important message. First graders had the opportunity to virtually meet the new Children and Youth Services Librarian at the Hastings on Hudson Public Library, Ms. Allee Manning. She shared the book Skin Again by Bell Hooks and responded to some amazing questions and comments by the students. Kindergarten students joined a live read-aloud by author Joana Pastro who read her new book, Bisa’s Carnaval. Some classes also enjoyed read-alouds by fourth grade Safety Patrol members. Through literacy, students demonstrated empathy and understanding.
Our week was a great success as a result of the hard work and collaboration put forth from members of our Hillside Racial Equity Day Committee. Special thanks to this fine group of teachers and parents who have spent the past six months planning our week of learning and reflection. We truly appreciate their efforts, creativity, and commitment.
We are so pleased to be able to come together to celebrate all of our uniqueness that makes our Hillside community so special!
Warm regards,
Amy Cazes Michael LaRocco
Principal Assistant Principal
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