Hillside Public Schools Congratulates Class of 2026 - TAPinto

On June 25, Woodfield Stadium filled with the kind of noise that only happens once — the particular mix of cheers and music and relief that belongs to graduation day.

Hillside High School celebrated the Class of 2026 with students, families, and members of the school community gathered under the open sky. Union County Life congratulates every graduate who crossed that stage and the Hillside community that raised them.

The ceremony recognized Acting Superintendent Dr. Gretel Perez, Principal Obinna Emenaka, Vice Principal Kamilah Heartwell-Jimenez, Board of Education President Dr. Donald Howard, Jr., and Board of Education Vice President Marjorie Hargrave — the leaders who carried the district and its students to this moment.

A Tribute to Terry Woolard

The afternoon held more than celebration. The district paused to honor former Principal Terry Woolard, who died in December 2025. Members of his family attended the ceremony — present for the graduating class he had been part of shaping, even if he couldn't be there himself.

It was a quiet, significant moment inside a day full of them.

Sending Off the Class of 2026

The district closed with the kind of send-off these students earned.

"A huge shoutout to all the parents, families, and friends who attended the ceremony," the district said. "Best of luck, Class of 2026 graduates, we know you will have a positive impact on the world, wherever life takes you."

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FAQ

When did Hillside High School hold its 2026 graduation?
June 25, 2026 at Woodfield Stadium in Hillside.

Who led Hillside Public Schools at the 2026 graduation?
Acting Superintendent Dr. Gretel Perez, Principal Obinna Emenaka, and Vice Principal Kamilah Heartwell-Jimenez were recognized, along with Board of Education President Dr. Donald Howard, Jr. and Vice President Marjorie Hargrave.

Who was Terry Woolard and why was he honored?
Terry Woolard was a former principal of Hillside High School who died in December 2025. The district honored him during the graduation ceremony, and his family attended in his memory.