Each Hillcrest student is a unique individual with special needs. While the core services are similar for all students, special programs allow us to reach, motivate and teach students who may not respond to other program components.

NYPUM (National Youth Project Using Minibikes)

       NYPUM is a youth development program sponsored by the Honda Corporation, which provides minibikes to Hillcrest and other agencies across the country. Students at participating Hillcrest campuses must meet stringent academic and behavioral criteria related to self control, and must demonstrate respect for safety conditions in order to enter and remain in the program. NYPUM students are carefully taught the rudiments of motorcycle maintenance and operation, and gradually engage in more challenging group riding and skill building activities. Hillcrest NYPUM teams participate in regional and national events sponsored by the Honda Corporation, and have won the prestigious NYPUM Sportsmanship Trophy four times for 1999, 2000, 2003 and 2004.

"NYPUM has taught me self control. When you're on the bike you control what you do, and that has taught me to always slow down and think about what I'm going to do before I do it."

"The NYPUM program has given me more discipline and has helped me with my behavior and my attitude."

"I think that what I am learning in NYPUM will help me get through life."

Quotes from NYPUM students

Adventure Based Counseling (ABC)

       The ABC program was developed by Hillcrest as a tool in the treatment of emotionally disturbed and traumatized students. The program fosters trust and self-confidence, raises self-esteem, and teaches interpersonal and problem-solving skills as a foundation for the recovery from trauma and the development of new, more productive behavior.
       Each team of students participates in ABCs once each week for two hours. During ABCs the students and staff participate in experiential learning activities called "challenges", "initiatives" or "games". During an activity students have to accomplish a goal together, which challenges students to take healthy risks often entailing the use of various "elements" (e.g., ropes course). The outcome of the challenge often depends on communication and cooperation to be successful.
       Safety always comes first during ABCs, and a student who is not comfortable engaging in a challenge will be supported as they contribute to their team's efforts during the activity in other ways.
       While attention is placed on the action part of the program, the thinking, feeling and interactional aspects of ABC groups are critical. As in more traditional group therapy, ABC groups enable students to normalize and/or confront their feelings and thoughts, and to give and receive feedback from peers.
       Because of the effectiveness of ABCs, and because the program model so aptly articulates and frames "challenge by choice" for both students and staff, ABC philosophy and values, language and methodology have been deeply integrated into almost every part of the Hillcrest program. Additionally, through ongoing experience and research, Hillcrest continues to refine and enhance the ABC program as an effective helping tool.

The Vocational Program

       Directed by the Vocational Coordinator, the Hillcrest Vocational Program offers a comprehensive range of services including assessment, career exploration, employment skills development and work experience opportunities. Challenging career related programs of study which emphasize communication, math, science and information technology help to create an environment that develops student motivation, enhances academic performance and nurtures skills and abilities required by employers. Areas of job skill training include food services, housekeeping, building maintenance, landscaping, greenhouse operations, sales and marketing, carpentry, computer skills, small engine repair and vehicle maintenance.
       Hillcrest students over the age of 14 receive a complete vocational assessment using tools supported and endorsed by the Massachusetts Department of Education. However, Hillcrest students of all ages have opportunities to participate in a multifaceted vocational education program that includes assessment, formal academic learning and opportunities for skill development experiences.

Scouting

       Hillcrest sponsors a Cub Scout pack, a Boy Scout troop, and a Girl Scout troop. These groups and their participating students are officially registered with and sanctioned by local Scout Districts and national Scout agencies. In all Hillcrest Scouting activities, as in their community counterparts, the development of life skills and positive values are emphasized. In addition to their weekly campus based activities, student Scouts participate in District and Regional activities such as awards dinners, camporees, jamborees and summer camps.

Special Olympics

       Some Hillcrest students are eligible to participate in both summer and winter Special Olympics activities and events. This type of involvement helps to build students' self esteem, confidence and a sense of connection with the community. Hillcrest Special Olympics teams have included downhill skiing, figure skating, basketball, and track and field.

Highpoint Photo Club

       A special program created for the purpose of introducing a wonderful career field and interesting hobby for the students of Highpoint School. Students learn techniques in capturing and developing photos of their surroundings.