Mr. Obinna Emenaka has dedicated 24 years of service to the Hillside Public Schools. A proud graduate of Hillside High School, he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Rutgers University and later obtained a master’s degree in engineering from the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT).

Inspired by his love for mathematics and by one of his high school math teachers, Mr. Emenaka began his career as a mathematics teacher at Hillside High School shortly after completing college. He spent six years in the classroom, during which time he also earned a second master’s degree in educational leadership.

Mr. Emenaka later transitioned into school leadership, serving Hillside High School as the Supervisor of Mathematics and subsequently as a Vice-Principal. Through these roles, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to academic excellence, student achievement, and the success of the school community.

He currently serves as the Acting Principal of Hillside High School and is excited to continue inspiring the next generation of young men and women as they pursue their goals and achieve success in college, careers, and beyond.

Principal's Message

Welcome to Hillside High School!

As a proud graduate of Hillside High School and a lifelong member of this community, it is truly an honor to serve as Acting Principal. For more than two decades, I have had the privilege of working in Hillside Public Schools—as a mathematics teacher, Supervisor of Mathematics, Vice Principal, and now in this leadership role. My journey began in the very classrooms and hallways where our students learn today, which makes serving this school community especially meaningful to me.

Hillside High School is home to about 900 talented and diverse students who bring unique perspectives, cultures, and experiences to our learning community. We believe that our diversity is one of our greatest strengths. It enriches our classrooms, strengthens our relationships, and prepares our students to thrive in a dynamic and interconnected world.

Our mission is to provide every student with a safe, supportive, and engaging learning environment where they can grow academically, socially, and personally. We are committed to rigorous and innovative instruction that challenges students to think critically, solve problems creatively, and develop the leadership skills needed for success in college, careers, and life.

At Hillside High School, we believe education extends beyond the classroom. We strive to cultivate respectful citizens, creative problem solvers, and inspirational leaders who are prepared to make meaningful contributions to society. Our dedicated teachers and staff work tirelessly to ensure that students have access to opportunities that promote academic excellence, technological proficiency, collaboration, and civic engagement.

Our partnerships with families and the greater Hillside community is essential to our success. Together, we support our students as they explore their passions, advocate for themselves and others, and pursue lifelong learning.

As someone who once sat in the same seats as our students, I understand the power of a Hillside education. I remain deeply committed to ensuring that every student who walks through our doors feels valued, supported, and inspired to reach their highest potential.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support of Hillside High School.

Uniform Policy and Student Handbook

Please remember that our students are expected to wear their uniforms on a daily basis. Uniform details and the uniform policy can be found here: https://hillsidepsnj.sites.thrillshare.com/o/hhs/page/school-uniforms

School begins promptly at 8:00 am and the day ends at 3:02 pm. We have several exciting and engaging activities embedded in our school culture. Take a moment to familiarize yourself with our Student Handbook which can be found at the following link:

Hillside High School Student Handbook

Every opportunity within our learning community assists in continuing the standard of excellence and rich tradition that we are extremely proud to showcase. It is because of supportive parents, guardians, and community members like you, that we are able to mold, shape, and impact the lives of our students. It takes a village to raise a child and Hillside is that village.  

Our staff has worked hard to earn the trust, respect, and affection of our community.  In alliance with students, staff, parents, and community, we will continue to focus on academic excellence, collaboration, student achievement, critical thinking, parent and community involvement, while preparing students for the global world!