Mendham School Celebrates National Blue-Ribbon School Designation

MENDHAM, NJ — Hilltop Elementary School was recently honored among nine schools in New Jersey and about 350 nationwide named Tuesday as National Blue Ribbon Schools for 2023 by the U.S. Department of Education.

To celebrate this accomplishment, Hilltop Elementary School held its National Blue Ribbon for Exemplary High-Performance Recognition Ceremony on Dec. 1.

The celebration included a preschool musical performance, 6th-grade student Alexander D’Avi’s reflection on his time at Hilltop Elementary School, and a poetry reading by 4th-grade student Lucas Vazquez. The gymnasium showcased work from every grade level and the related arts programs for all guests to view.

Superintendent of Schools Mitzi N. Morillo and Board President Catalina Wolfmeyer congratulated the dedicated administration, faculty, and staff members, students, encouraging parents and supportive members of the Board of Education.

Mayor Christine Serrano Glassner shared her pride in the school’s accomplishment and noted it as a reflection of the Mendham Borough Community at large.

Hilltop Elementary School, located at 12 Hilltop Road in Mendham Borough, was the only Morris County school to make the list.

The New Jersey Acting Commissioner of Education, Dr. Angelica Allen-McMillan, shared in her address that Hilltop Elementary School has become a shining example of what can be achieved through dedication, innovation, and a shared commitment to the success of every student.

This is not the first time this year that the Mendham Borough School District has been noticed by the Department of Education; this spring, two of the top 30 best-scoring schools in New Jersey’s school report cards were in Mendham Borough.

Principal Christopher Mucha led the student celebration of this high honor by displaying the National Blue Ribbon Banner and having every student share what makes Hilltop Elementary School special to them.

"This prestigious award affirms the values and mission of our elementary school, which endeavors to create a community filled with lifelong learners who strive for personal growth and academic excellence and act as responsible citizens who contribute to an ever-changing world," Morillo said.