The school year is already in full swing, but it is not too late to get to know the new teachers who have joined the Hills community this August. These new additions to the faculty have added more support, love, and a new perspective to the school atmosphere.

We spoke to a few new faculty members to find out their first impressions of Hills, how they’ve settled, and what they have enjoyed about the school community so far.  

Axelle Sandt

Axelle Sandt, a new addition to the World Language department, is excited to bring her enthusiasm and French experience to Hills. With a background in the French language and culture, Sandt is teaching advanced French classes, including French III, Honors French IV, and Honors French V. She is also involved in several clubs at Hills including the French Honor Society, the Student Immigrant Alliance, and is planning to start a new club called ‘TEEEM’.

“My first impression of Pascack Hills was that it was a very welcoming environment, with great staff and students. Everyone is very approachable. Pascack Hills feels also a bit like home to me, as my children went to Pascack Valley, and a few teachers here had them or knew them. It feels like a great learning and teaching environment,” she said. 

Sandt has also expressed her appreciation for Hills’ warm and hospitable environment.

“Everyone was so welcoming, it felt like a family welcoming us new teachers,” she said.

Margaret Schmidt

Margaret Schmidt is also a new face to the World Language department as a general French educator. Despite only being at Hills for a few months, Schmidt has already felt a strong connection after watching how engaged and motivated students are.  

“Hills is a busy beehive with lots of learning. I almost wish I could see the staff—outside of those I work with daily—more as our year has kicked off,” she said.

Schmidt also explained how welcoming the Hills community is and her excitement to be more involved.

“At the beginning of the year, teachers and students were welcoming. Once the year kicked in, it’s been hard to see staff outside of those I work with daily. It would be really nice to have a social gathering,” she said.

Stephanie Pelli

Stephanie Pelli joined the science department this year despite not being necessarily new to Hills. She previously taught at Pascack Valley for 13 years. Bringing her experience and passion for educating students to Hills, Pelli teaches Honors Biology and Chemistry. 

“I gained my first impression of Hills 15 years ago! I was teaching SAT Prep classes when I was in college. The Hills students were very motivated, kind, and polite,” she said.

Her colleagues and students help her feel welcome with a helpful hand or a kind smile.

 “I find the teachers and students to be very collegiate and welcoming. All the teachers have been very kind in helping me get situated in my classroom. The students are friendly and always say ‘hello’ in the halls,” she said.

Francis ‘Frank’ Cherichello

Francis Cherichello returns to the Hills as the leave replacement counselor for this current school year. After nearly three decades of exemplary service as a school counselor, Chericello is excited to be back helping students navigate their high school experiences and prepare for college.

“I love Pascack Hills High School. I am happy to return this year to help out in the Guidance Office covering for Ms. Biega. The students I have met so far, mostly seniors, are a dynamic group of individuals, and we are already forming great relationships,” he said.

Now that you have learned a little about the new staff at Hills, introduce yourself to and embrace welcoming everyone.  These educators are beacons of knowledge and personality, and we are thrilled to have new individuals in our community!