Hillcrest High School (28Q505) 
160-05 Highland Avenue, Queens, NY 11432, Queens
Phone: 718-658-5407
Hours: 8:00am - 3:50pm
School Website: https://www.hillcrestweb.com
NYCDOE Website: https://www.myschools.nyc/en/schools/high-school/28Q505/
Quality Snapshot: View snapshot
Building Access Profile: View profile
School Leader: Varun Rule-Pandey (vrulepandey@schools.nyc.gov)
Parent Coordinator: Esthefany Lopez (elopez89@schools.nyc.gov)
Respect for All Liaison: Catherine Jordan (cjordan3@schools.nyc.gov)
Sexual Harassment Prevention Liaison: Aneil Chattoo (achatto@schools.nyc.gov)
504 Coordinator: Janet Jackson (jjackso14@schools.nyc.gov)
Calculate commute
About
Hillcrest High School envisions an inclusive and vibrant learning environment that honors student diversity and fosters compassion, resilience, and community connection. Through student-centered learning, real-world experiences, and culturally responsive teaching, we empower all students to excel in college, 21st-century careers, and civic lifesupported by strong community ties and an enduring alumni network. At Hillcrest High School, our mission is to empower a diverse community of learners through personalized Small Learning Communities (SLCs), supported by dedicated counselors and advisors. We promote academic excellence, civic responsibility, and personal growth through comprehensive programs that include social-emotional learning, peer mentoring, and leadership development. Through rigorous and inclusive college and career pathways--including Career and Technical Education (CTE), Advanced Placement, dual credit college courses, paid internships, and industry-recognized certifications such as EMT and CNAwe prepare students to succeed in a rapidly evolving world. Our commitment to bilingual education, cultural celebrations, and authentic community engagement reflects our belief that every student deserves to be seen, supported, and challenged. Through our seven Small Learning Communities, Hillcrest High School prepares students to thrive beyond graduation--equipped with real-world skills, a strong sense of identity, and the confidence to lead in college, careers, and their communities.
Reports: School Budget | PTA Financials | Room Utilization
Teachers with more than 3 years of experience: 92%
Academic Highlights: Personalized Learning in Small Communities: At Hillcrest, every student belongs to one of seven Small Learning Communities (SLCs), each led by a dedicated Director and Counselor. This structure ensures a tight-knit, personalized educational experience within a large and vibrant high school., Rich Extracurricular Life: With over 20 clubs including Robotics, LGBTQIA+, K-Pop, Mock Trial, and the Muslim Student Associationand 25+ varsity and JV sports teams, Hillcrest offers opportunities for every student to shine outside the classroom., College and Career Ready Pathways: Students can graduate with up to 24+ college credits through our Advanced Placement and College Now programs, and earn industry-recognized certifications in high-demand fields like EMT, CNA, Software Engineering, Medical Lab Technology, and Teaching., Diverse, Inclusive, and Supportive Community: Hillcrest celebrates its cultural richness through bilingual programs, affinity groups, and heritage events all while fostering academic excellence, resilience, and real-world readiness in a safe and welcoming environment., Rigorous and Inclusive Academics: Our AP offerings include AP African American Studies, AP Computer Science A & Principles, AP Psychology, and AP Research/Capstone, empowering students to explore interests deeply while building college-level skills.
Other Features: 10th Grade Seats Available, Career and Technical Education (CTE), College Courses Offered, College Courses onsite, College Trips, Community Service Expected, Computer Science Coursework, Expert College and Career Advisor On Staff, Financial Literacy Coursework, FutureReadyNYC School, Internships, LYFE (Living For The Young Family Through Education), Paid Apprenticeships, Paid Internships, Program(s) with 1 GE Applicant Per Seat, Program(s) with 1 SWD Applicant Per Seat, Summer Bridge
English Language Learner Programs: Transitional Bilingual Education: Bengali, Spanish
School Features:
CTE Endorsement
Audition Offered
Offers 10th Grade Seats
Guidance Counselors, Social Workers, Bilingual Guidance Counselors
Upcoming Events
October 29, 2025 @ 5:00 pm Freshmen Open House 
- November 8, 2025 @ 10:00 am Freshmen Open House
AP Courses, Languages, Sports, Art
Programs
Empowering Future Innovators in Healthcare, Engineering & Computer Science: Q24A blends cutting-edge technology, health sciences, and engineering in one dynamic, CTE-endorsed program. With hands-on coursework, industry certifications, and senior projects, students graduate ready for college, careers, and the ever-evolving 21st-century workforce. Health Sciences Pathway: From Classroom to Clinic. Prepare for a rewarding career in healthcare through academic rigor and real-world experience. Courses by Grade: 9th Grade: Introduction to Healthcare, 10th Grade: Introduction to Health Core covers anatomy, health occupations, and professional behavior, 11th Grade: Introduction to Nursing Assistant emphasizes nursing theory, anatomy, and medical writing,12th Grade: Certified Nursing Assistant Clinical supervised clinical rotations, elder care, patient skills Certifications & Recognition include: NOCTI NYS CTE Certified Nursing Assistant, 54+ Work-Based Learning hours, Senior Project completion, Students are eligible for paid and unpaid internships in hospitals, clinics, and health agencie In the Software In the Engineering & Robotics Pathway: Students master essential skills in programming, web development, and digital design, with access to advanced software and tools. Courses by Grade:9th Grade: Introduction to Robotics; Intro to Software Engineering using SNAP & Python, 10th Grade: Introduction to Business & Computer Applications, TinkerCAD, CNC Milling, and Laser Engraving, 11th Grade: Web Development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Flask), Intro to JAVA Applications, 12th Grade: AP Computer Science A (JAVA), Capstone Senior Project
10th Grade seats available
- (Group 1) New York City residents
Teaching
Through a partnership with CUNY, the PERC TAS program allows students to lead lessons and mentor struggling students in Living Environment and Algebra. Through our partnership with Junior Achievement, students participate in the HS Heroes program where they have the opportunity to teach for a day, twice each year. We offer a Teacher Assistant program through our foundations of education course and the opportunity to participate in job shadowing through American Express and ABC studios. Future Ready Ed Pathway / Leadership Program. Course Sequence: 9th Grade: Career Exploration course , College visits/CUNY Explorers; 10th Grade: Intro to Education Course/College Visits/College Now Courses/Career Exploration Week/JA School intervisitation /Read Alliance/College Trips; 11th Grade: Child Development and Teaching Practices Course/Paid Work Based Challenge/College Now Course Work/JA School intervisitation /Read Alliance/College Trips; 12th Grade: Teaching Practicum Course/Paid 60hr internship/College Now Course Work/JA School intervisitation /Read Alliance/ College Trips
10th Grade seats available
- (Group 1) New York City residents
Communications, Humanities & Interdisciplinary
Pre-College and Honors Academy is an Honors College Preparatory Program offering scholars an opportunity to receive 18 or more College Credits through the Advanced Placement (AP) College Board, and additional college credits through our liasons with LaGuardia Community College and CUNY York College. Students can achieve up to 24 college credits before they graduate from High School. College Classes in Highschool with York College, St. Johns University, and Colombia University. All AP Courses and Honors Content Classes are weighted to allow students to achieve Grade Point Averages (GPAs) above 100. GOALS For A Pre-College Student: Advanced Regents Diploma; 9 Regents Exams: ELA, 3 Math Courses, Foreign Language, 2 Science Courses, Global History, 9th Regents can be US History, or another Science AP Capstone Diploma/CertificateModel United Nations, Film Studies, Journalism, Creative Writing, AP and College Courses prepare students for College and beyond.
10th Grade seats available
- (Group 1) New York City residents
Science & Math
Courses offered leading toward medical STEM careers: AP Biology, AP Environmental Science, AP Calculus, AP Spanish, AP Computer Science, AP English Composition, AP English Literature, Chemistry, Anatomy, Physics, STEM Research Academy at York College, STEM Science Research Internship opportunities, NASA-Global Warming and Climate Change, Science Research-Environmental Science, Medical Laboratory, Microbiology, and CUNY College Now Courses. Participant in NYSEF and STEM MATTERS DOE.
10th Grade seats available
- (Group 1) New York City residents
Visual Art & Design, Performing Arts/Visual Art & Design
The Hillcrest Academy of Performing and Visual Arts offers a rigorous four-year program comprising three distinct tracks: theater, music, and visual arts. Each track features a diverse range of courses, including acting, technical theater, AP 2-D Art, graphic design, orchestra, and marching band, among others, fostering proficiency in various art forms. Throughout the year, students have numerous opportunities to showcase their talents in various settings. Additionally, Hillcrest facilitates partnerships with arts organizations, encouraging students to participate in internships and summer programs. Theater students, in particular, work alongside these partners to enhance their understanding of all aspects of production. Upon fulfilling the requirements of the theater and visual arts tracks, students graduate with a Chancellor's Endorsed Arts Diploma.
10th Grade seats available
- (Group 1) New York City residents
Law & Government
Empowering Tomorrows Leaders in Law, Education & Public Service: students don't just study, they lead, serve, and make change. Through three (3) immersive pathways: Law, Teaching, and JROTC Leadership: we prepare socially responsible, college-ready students for impactful careers in law, education, and public service. 1) In the Law Pathway: From Classroom to Courtroom Future lawyers and advocates begin their journey in 9th grade with a four-year Legal Studies track. Courses include : Introduction to Law, Criminal Justice, Criminology, Constitutional Law, Legal Research, Mock Trials, and Moot Court. College Readiness: Builds foundations for majors in Political Science, Criminal Justice, and Pre-Law. Real-World experiences include Courtroom visits & professional mentorships (e.g., NYU Women in Law) Competitions and partenrships. 2)In the Education Pathway, we Inspire the next generation of teachers and education leaders. Courses include Introduction to Teaching, Child Development, Teaching Practicum, Instructional Practices College & Career Prep: Paid internship in senior year through Future Ready NYC, CUNY Explorers college tours Leadership workshops and public speaking trainingPartners: Future Ready NYC, Read Alliance, Junior Achievement Skills Gained: Lesson planning, classroom management, and leadership from day one. 3) In the JROTC Leadership Pathway: Service, Discipline & Honor. Students develop strong, civic-minded leaders ready to serve their communities and beyond: Cadet Life: 4-year JROTC program with structured rank advancement, leadership roles, and mentorship. Military Traditions: Drill & ceremony, color guard, and physical fitness Civic Engagement: Volunteer service, community outreach, and team-building Career Readiness: Emphasis on discipline, time management, and goal setting Why Q24P? Hands-On Learning in every pathway College-Ready Curriculum with real-world experiencesLeadership Development & professional mentorship, Certifications & Internships to build standout resumes, Civic Responsibility at the core of every program Q24P students graduate empowered to lead with purpose, confidence, and integrity.
10th Grade seats available
- (Group 1) New York City residents
- (Group 1) Students currently in an ACES (Academics, Career, and Essential Skills) program
Applicant Analysis
| 2024-25 | 2023-24 | |
| GE applicants/seats: | 0 / 0 (0.00) | 0 / 0 (0.00) |
| SWD applicants/seats: | 0 / 3 (0.00) | 3 / 5 (0.60) |
Rank Avg:  | ||
| Waitlist |
Zoned
10th Grade seats available
- (Group 1) Students who live in the zoned area
- (Group 2) New York City residents
School Student & Admissions Statistics
Total Offers
This data was gathered from various NYC DOE reports: https://infohub.nyced.org/reports/students-and-schools/school-quality/information-and-data-overview
Survey Summary & Data (2024-25)
Note: Yellow bars indicate city-wide averages for the associated category
Academic Summary & Data (2023-24)
4-Year College 37.10%
Other Postsecondary 0.30%
Unknown 37.50%
School Demographics (2024-25)
Female 51.00%
Other 0.10%
Black 24.10%
Hispanic 39.20%
White 3.00%
Other 6.30%
Black 15.20%
Hispanic 12.60%
White 47.70%
Other 2.00%
This data was gathered from the NYC DOE's demographic snapshots: https://infohub.nyced.org/reports/students-and-schools/school-quality/information-and-data-overview
IEP Statistics (2023-24)
This data was gathered from the NYC DOE's yearly quality reports: https://infohub.nyced.org/reports/students-and-schools/school-quality/school-quality-reports-and-resources
Special Education Programs & Services (2024-25)
| Program | Fully Receiving | Partially Receiving | Not Receiving |
| Integrated Co-Teaching Services | 133 (94%) | >5 (?) | <=5 (?) |
| SETSS | 11 (100%) | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) |
| Special Class | 100 (89%) | >5 (?) | <=5 (?) |
| Service | Fully Receiving | Partially Receiving | Not Receiving |
| Counseling Services | 112 (95%) | N/A (N/A) | 6 (5%) |
| Counseling Services Bilingual | <=5 (100%) | 0 (0%) | 0 (0%) |
| Occupational Therapy | >5 (92%) | N/A (N/A) | <=5 (8%) |
| Speech-Language Therapy | >5 (96%) | N/A (N/A) | <=5 (4%) |
| Speech-Language Therapy Bilingual | <=5 (40%) | <=5 (20%) | <=5 (40%) |
| Transportation | Number Receiving |
| Curb to School | 18 (78%) |
| Stop to School | <=5 (?) |
| Unassigned | <=5 (?) |
This data was gathered from the NYC DOE's Special Education Reports: https://infohub.nyced.org/reports/government-reports/special-education-reports
ELL Performance (2023-24)
This data was gathered from the NYC DOE's yearly quality reports: https://infohub.nyced.org/reports/students-and-schools/school-quality/school-quality-reports-and-resources
