Principal's Message
We are currently planning for the 2020-21 school year. Students in grades 9 - 12 should be enjoying their summers and completing summer reading and AP summer assignments are available linked on this website. We
recognize that 2019-20 was one of the most challenging school years ever, but we hope that all of our students remember that the faculty and staff of HPHS are dedicated to providing the best education possible for them whether in person or remotely and online. We look forward to our incoming Class of 2024 joining us as we wish the Class of 2020 great success in their future endeavors. We look forward to the Class of 2021 and 2022 taking on more leadership roles in our school! Student schedules will be available in mid-August. Our counselors will be reaching out to students as they identify any concerns and meeting with students towards the end of August to address any remaining scheduling issues.
Our high school has received quite a number of recognitions including ranking by U.S. News and World Reports as one of the Best High Schools in New Jersey. We also earned the Shoprite Cup as the #1 Group I New Jersey Sports Program in 2018.
Additionally, 54% of our graduating seniors earned a 3 or higher on at least one AP exam before they graduated our high school. We have renewed our Bronze Certification from Sustainable Jersey for Schools in recognition of our efforts to pursue "green" initiatives and a number of wellness projects in our school in support of sustainability. In 2019, our Boys Tennis Team won the Group I State Championship, and we had three Spring Track State Champions! Our track programs have set the standard by consistently performing at the top levels in our county, division, and the state! Our Boys and Girls Soccer teams were highly successful winning a State Sectional Championship and the Greater Middlesex Conference championship respectively. We were also Division champions in Girls Tennis for two years in a row. This academic and athletic recognition along with the numerous individual and team awards received by our Model UN/ Model Congress, DECA, Mock Trial Team, Science Leagues, Mathletes, Orchestra, Choir, and Band and other competitive clubs demonstrate that our students, faculty, and school community are focused on all aspects of student achievement.
All of our students are encouraged to set their individual goals for success at the highest levels and to take advantage of the broad range of opportunities and supports our school has to offer.
Students who need assistance with coursework and want to improve their grades should meet with their counselor or teachers to arrange for tutoring or for additional help if needed. We are always available to provide help to any student who needs it.
Remember that we are the OWLS, and our mission is for each of our students to demonstrate Openness, Wisdom, Leadership, and Spirit as they prepare for college, future careers, and active participation in society. We are dedicated to serving our students and guiding them as they fulfill this mission. Please do not hesitate to contact us whenever you have a question or concern.
Michael J. Lassiter
Principal of Highland Park High School
Email: mlassiter@hpschools.net