Daniella Alvarez, principal of Herndon Looker Elementary School, presented the school's activities and student work to the Hillside Board of Education on Oct. 30. Alvarez highlighted improved standardized-test performance, WIDA ACCESS results and classroom innovations including differentiated instruction and technology integration.

Students introduced a short newscast produced entirely by students with guidance from staff and the district's Apple Innovation work. The presentation described Girl Rock Science, a hands-on STEM club for fifth- and sixth-grade girls; success in district-level engineering competitions; a new classroom pet used to teach responsibility; and a hydroponics gardening project expected to include strawberries this year.

Alvarez credited partnerships, weekly newsletters to families, the Leader in Me program and recent iPad initiatives for increased engagement. She introduced several new teachers and closed by thanking the superintendent, board and community; the school's chorus performed as part of the presentation.

The presentation was followed by superintendent and board remarks praising the school's rapid implementation of new media and technology projects and commending staff and students for their work.