Special Events
Special events have become a tradition at Hillcrest, including:
In the Fall
Kindergarten Social
Before the start of school, the Kindergartners and their families are invited to Hillcrest for an ice cream social where they can see their classroom and meet their classmates and teachers.
Opening Day Reception
On the first day of school, the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) sponsors a get acquainted tea/coffee for new and returning Hillcrest parents on the Playground. Parents are encouraged to sign up to volunteer time and talent.
Back to School Night
Parents are invited to meet their child’s teacher, visit their classroom, and learn about the school program for the coming year. This event is for adults only. Volunteer opportunities are discussed and parents are encouraged to support their child’s learning throughout the school year.
Halloween Parade
On the school day closest to Halloween, Hillcrest celebrates with an all school parade on the playground. Students have a chance to change into costume before the parade begins. Parents and staff members are encouraged to join the fun.
Middle School Fall Dance
All Middle School students are invited to Hillcrest’s Fall Dance, usually on a Friday in October from 6:30pm to 9:00pm.
Benefit for Hillcrest
Organized by the PTA, the annual benefit is the largest fundraiser for Hillcrest. Families, friends, and merchants donate goods and services for the silent and live auctions.
Thanksgiving Canned Food Drive
The second grade class sponsors a food drive to collect food for our partnership schools. Hillcrest families also participate in the distribution of the food to the families of the partnership school community.
Restorative Justice (RJ) Day
Our middle school students spend the day building community through peer conversations, circles, and crafting.
In the Winter
Martin Luther King, Jr. Oratorical Fest
Students are invited to participate in a school-wide oratorical festival in January by reciting poetry, reading selections from a published work, or by sharing an original production focusing on the ideals and teachings of the Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. School winners will participate at the OUSD District level.
Middle School Winter Dance
The Middle School Winter Dance usually takes place in February – details TBD.
In the Spring
Science and Art Fair
Students are encouraged to submit individual and group investigations put together at home – suggestions and guidelines will be distributed at school. Projects are displayed in the multi-purpose room and entrance hallway.
Walkathon and School Carnival
The students raise funds themselves by soliciting sponsors to support them in walking laps around the school. It’s a day filled with with carnival games, food, and community spirit.
K-5 Musical Performances
Students in grades K-5 work with our Visual and Performing Arts teacher to perform 2-3 unique pieces for their families and other students, showcasing the fundamentals of music they have learned over the course of the year.
Teacher Appreciation Day
Students bring in flowers and blossoms from their gardens to create a bouquet for their teacher. Teachers are also honored at a luncheon organized by the PTA.
Middle School Spring Dance
The Middle School Spring Dance usually takes place in May .
Open House
This family event provides an opportunity for students and teachers to show parents the work they have accomplished during the school year. This is a special time for students to share their classroom as seen through their eyes.
Talent Show
The Talent Show features individual and group performances by Hillcrest students. Past talents include singing, dancing, gymnastics, magic, and instrument playing. Families are invited to attend the school performance or the special evening show.
Career Day
Students have the opportunity to learn from and engage with professionals in a variety of fields. Family members and community members are encouraged to join us to give a short presentation.
Hillcrest Calendar
Stay informed
The best way to stay on top of the many events happening at Hillcrest is to add the Hillcrest calendar to your phone or computer by clicking HERE or adding "Hillcrest Public Calendar 2025-26" to your google calendar.
