Philanthropy in Action
Our dedicated supporters believe in the transformative power of people who not only think differently, but who also problem-solve and lead in unique ways. Thanks to their generosity, Hill Top Preparatory School is able to provide innovative academic programs, personalized support services, and life-changing opportunities for neurodiverse learners.
It is our mission, and privilege, to celebrate our students’ differences, harness their unique gifts, and equip them with the skills to successfully navigate the world. With heartfelt appreciation, we extend our sincerest thanks to each and every one of our supporters for their unwavering commitment to championing the potential of these neurodiverse individuals. Together, we are preparing Hill Top students to authentically be themselves, and thrive, while contributing to the creation of a better world around them.
Check out some of what has been happening here on The Hill, thanks to the contributions of supporters like YOU!
Esports
The Hill Top Esports program is more than just gaming - it’s a platform for students to develop critical 21st-century skills like teamwork, strategic thinking, and problem-solving. Through participation in regional leagues for games like Rocket League, Super Smash Bros., and Minecraft EDU, students compete in nationwide scrimmages. The program also supports social-emotional learning, fostering collaboration and leadership through video game clubs. Mr. Scribner’s curriculum and expertise not only enhance academic skills like coding and digital animation, but also encourage resilience and adaptability, preparing students for future challenges.
This year, middle school students achieved remarkable success, placing 3rd in the international Problem Solving Olympiad, while others tackled complex STEM projects and participated in the Minecraft EDU FARMCRAFT competitions, where they engineered autonomous farms. Congratulations to our students!
Visiting Artist
At a time when many schools are winding down their art programs, Hill Top Preparatory School’s is expanding! Thanks to the generous support from the J.R. Porter Photography and Social Skills Fund, we invited local artist Amy Kelly to campus to lead a special project - student self portraits on wooden 2x4s. Like previous artist-in-residence programs supported by the Porter Fund, a permanent installation of our students’ creativity is prominently displayed, leaving a legacy of our students for years to come. Check out this latest project the next time you turn towards the Mansion!
Wellness Center Programming
The 2023-2024 school year saw the opening of the Brenneman Family Fitness Center. As part of a larger wellness initiative, we looked to expand our pioneering social-emotional learning curriculum. Thanks to the generosity of alumnus Haynes Young ‘95, Hill Top has introduced Inner Explorer, a mindfulness program specially designed to be implemented in schools from Pre-K through 12th grade. The daily, guided practices help students reduce stress, improve focus, and build emotional resilience - critical skills for our neurodiverse learners. This program is quickly becoming an essential part of our holistic approach to education, empowering students to thrive both academically and personally, while fostering a compassionate learning environment.
Employability and Transition (E/T)
Our Employability and Transition students dive into hands-on learning through our partnership with Ohana Farms, gaining experience in apple cider and apple butter production. With each visit, students get a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to run a business, setting them up for even bigger things during their senior year where they’ll manage Hill Top’s coffee shop, The Bean Scene.
But that’s not all. This year, Ohana Farms is partnering with the Philadelphia Eagles to sell their delicious apple cider at home games…the very same apple cider our students are making! Talk about a winning team. The skills they're building in this project will help them thrive in whatever comes next - whether it’s college, trade school, or entering the workforce. Go Birds! Go Hawks!
Scholarships
Hill Top Preparatory School is the Main Line leader in the education of neurodiverse learners. Our campus is such a special place because of the students we are privileged to welcome. In that spirit, Hill Top prioritizes our fundraising efforts to provide scholarships to many of our students. A quality education is important, and we believe it is our responsibility to offer financial support so that a Hill Top Prep experience is available to the families who need it most. We wouldn’t be able to do this without you, our generous donors. Thank you!
Hill Top Preparatory School is fortunate to count so many in our extended community that make all of this possible. It is through their collective efforts of advocacy, volunteerism, and philanthropic support that we are able to directly impact the lives of our students, shape the future of our school, and continue to foster a culture of excellence.
Looking to get more involved in making a difference and empowering the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and innovators? Reach out to Julia Ott, Director of Advancement, for more information. 610.527.3230 x668 or [email protected]
