Social Studies, as defined by the National Council for the Social Studies, is “the integrated study of the social sciences and humanities to promote civic competence.”  The primary purpose of the Hillside social studies program is to provide an academically rigorous environment that produces active critical thinkers and productive, civically competent, participants in our society.  Students are given the opportunity to develop their own sense of place in our community, state, nation and global village.  Students will pursue individual goals and challenges as they develop an understanding of self, the diverse community of which they are a part, and their connection to the goals and interests of the global community and planet earth.  

Students will study history, citizenship/political science, geography, economics, anthropology, sociology, and the humanities as prescribed by the New Jersey State Core Curriculum Content Standards in Social Studies.  As they study the human condition in these contexts, they will gain an understanding of their own country’s history, institutions and environment.  They will also apply their knowledge to understand the forces that have shaped world cultures.  Students will learn to view contemporary problems facing the nation and the world as products of complex historical, institutional, and environmental processes.  Students will discover their own individuality and the contributions they can make to society.  They will know what they should strive to become and their role as responsible and productive individuals who possess civic competence.

If you have questions or comments, please reach out to the  Director of Curriculum and Instruction,  908-352-7664 ext. 6458