Academics Home
Academics
Hackensack High School is a learning community that fosters an appreciation for cultural diversity, intellectual growth, and individual diligence. We strive to prepare students to accept life's challenges by encouraging them to be open-minded, reflective, life-long learners who have integrity and respect for others. Hackensack High School, in partnership with home and community, will develop citizens who make a difference in their community.
Reaching All Learners
-
Hackensack High School is a learning community that fosters an appreciation for cultural diversity, intellectual growth, and individual diligence. We strive to prepare students to accept life's challenges by encouraging them to be open-minded, reflective, life-long learners who have integrity and respect for others. Hackensack High School, in partnership with home and community, will develop citizens who make a difference in their community.
-
Reaching All Learners
English and Media Studies
-
The Hackensack Public Schools English Language Arts Department is committed to inspiring students to become curious, compassionate, and courageous thinkers who use the power of language to understand themselves, connect with others, and engage with the world. Through rich and diverse literature, purposeful writing, meaningful discussion, inquiry, and critical analysis, we empower every student to read deeply, think critically, communicate effectively, and develop a confident and authentic voice. We value multiple perspectives and foster classrooms where students feel seen, heard, challenged, and respected. Our mission is to cultivate lifelong readers, writers, and learners who approach information with discernment, ideas with curiosity, and others with empathy. By connecting literacy to real-world experiences and an ever-changing global community, we prepare students not simply to succeed in school, but to contribute thoughtfully and meaningfully to the world beyond it.
-
CP/Honors English 1
CP/HonorsEnglish 2
CP English 3
CP English 3 - Multicultural Literature
CP English 4 - Exploring Social Justice
CP English 4 - Making Voices Heard
CP English 4 - Graphic Novels
CP English 4 - The Horror Genre Through the Ages
CP English 4 - True Crime Studies in Literature
Reading Lab
Literary Connections
Honors English 4 - Mythology
AP Language and Composition
AP English Literature and Composition
CP Journalism
Yearbook
Creative Writing
Careers in Education
Speech Communications
-
Ms. Marissa Calfayan, Special Education Teacher
mcalfayan@hackensackschools.org
I have been a special education teacher since 2006, working with students in both resource and inclusion settings. I am passionate about supporting students in reaching their academic, social, and personal goals while helping them build confidence and independence. In addition to teaching, I am a co-advisor for Hackensack High School’s Interact Club, where I enjoy helping students get involved in community service and make a positive difference in their school and community.
Mrs. Dawn Direnzo-Washburn, Teacher
dwashburn@hackensackschools.org
Mr. Caseen Gaines, Teacher
Ms. Rose Ann Harty, Teacher
High school English Teacher
Ms. Andrea J Kasich, Paraprofessional
I have been a paraprofessional at HHS since 2006 and a substitute teacher at all grade levels in Hackensack District for 12 years prior to becoming a para.
Mrs. Kimberly King, Teacher
Ms. Nicole Macias, Library Media Specialist
I am the Library Media Specialist for both Hackensack Middle School and High School. My position helps connect students with books, technology, and resources that support their academic and personal interests. My goal is to foster a love of reading and help students become confident and curious learners.
Ms. Lauren Marco, Teacher
I have been a special education at HHS for 30 years. I teacher Reading Lab and English. I love what I do!
Ms. Courtney Milewski, Teacher
cmilewski@hackensackschools.org
AP Literature and Composition, Reading Lab MEd. Montclair State University.
Ms. Elizabeth Murray, Teacher
I have been teaching at Hackensack for the past 17 years in the English department. In the course of my career I have taught all 4 grades and assorted electives which have included creative writing, SAT Prep and reading lab.
Ms. Evangelia Papamichael, Teacher
epapamichael@hackensackschools.org
I’ve been teaching English at Hackensack High School for the past 23 years. I earned my BA in Education from The College of New Jersey and my Master’s in School Counseling from Montclair State University. I currently teach Honors English 2, English Lab 2, and English Lab 1. I’m also a certified school counselor, so connecting with students has always been a big part of what I love about my work.
For me, literature is a way to connect with students. Through stories, characters, and different perspectives, I get to know my students and build meaningful relationships with them. That connection is what makes teaching so rewarding for me and is also what drew me to counseling. At the end of the day, I hope my students know that I’m always in their corner and that I’m here to support them, both in the classroom and beyond.Ms. Jacquelyn Perrone, Teacher
jperrone@hackensackschools.org
Ms. Perrone is a 9th grade English and ICS teacher at Hackensack High School. She has extensive experience supporting diverse learners. She is committed to creating an inclusive and engaging classroom where ALL students can grow as readers, writers, critical thinkers, and confident communicators. She values student voice, meaningful connections to literature and real-world issues, and providing students with the tools and support they need to succeed.
Mr. Gerard Porto, Teacher
Ms. Suzy Roushdy, Teacher
sroushdy@hackensackschools.org
I have taught English Language Arts in New Jersey for 16 years. I am passionate about instilling in my students a genuine love of reading, along with a deep understanding of literature and its power to shape how we see the world. I am passionate about encouraging critical thinking and helping every student find and trust their own voice. My classroom is more than a place to learn; it's a safe, welcoming space that my students can always call home.
Ms. Stephanie Shaw, Teacher
Dr. Jacqueline Stone, Teacher
English teacher with over 20 years experience in Hackensack and abroad.
Mr. Tom Terzano, Teacher
tterzano@hackensackschools.org
High School Diploma from HHS in 1993.
Started teaching at HHS in 1998.Ms. Anna Wagman, Teacher
Mr. Anthony Zisa, Teacher
I am a lifelong resident of Hackensack, having graduated from Fanny Meyer Hillers, Hackensack Middle School, and Hackensack High School. I hold a bachelor's degree in Film Studies from the University of California at Berkeley, where I wrote my honors thesis on rhetorical framing in Michael Moore's Fahrenheit 9/11. I also hold a bachelor's degree in English from Montclair State University and a master's degree in Cinema Studies from New York University. I have been teaching in the HHS English department since 2006, primarily in 11th and 12th grades. I also spent ten years teaching Television Communication and Broadcast Journalism before moving back full time into the English department. My favorite novel is Charles Dickens's A Tale of Two Cities, my favorite author is H.P. Lovecraft, my favorite film is Akira Kurosawa's Rash?mon, and my favorite album is Tool's Ænima. In my spare time, I read graphic novels and horror fiction, with my favorite types of each being superhero comics (particularly from DC) and cosmic and existential horror.
Mathematics and Business
-
The mission of the Hackensack School District Math Department is to provide all students with meaningful opportunities to develop an understanding of mathematics, problem-solving skills, and confidence. We believe mathematics is essential to understanding the world, making informed decisions, and opening doors to future opportunities. Through rigorous instruction, relevant curriculum, and purposeful use of technology, we strive to create an inclusive learning environment where all students are challenged, supported, and empowered to succeed. We expect all students to: Develop fluency in essential mathematical skills and concepts. Apply mathematical reasoning and problem-solving strategies to meaningful situations. Communicate and justify their mathematical thinking. Make connections among mathematical ideas and between mathematics and other disciplines. Develop the confidence and perseverance to approach challenging problems.
-
CP/Honors Algebra 1
CP/Honors Geometry
CP/Honors Algebra 2
CP Mathematical Modeling
CP/Honors Precalculus
Advanced Senior Math
Math Analysis/ Calc BC1
Honors Discrete Math w/ Statistics
AP Statistics
AP Calculus AB
AP Calculus BC
-
Mr. Philip Benanti, Teacher
pbenanti@hackensackschools.org
Mr. David Bernardo, Teacher
dbernardo@hackensackschools.org
Ms. Carolina Betances, Teacher
cbetances@hackensackschools.org
I grew up in Hackensack, and wanted to come back to the district that helped shaped me. I've been teaching for 22 years at the high school, and love making a difference in our students' lives.
Mr. Joseph Brunacki, Teacher
jbrunacki@hackensackschools.org
Graduated from Montclair State University
Started at Hackensack High School in January 2004
JV Girls Soccer Coach and JV Girls Softball CoachMr. Camilo Camacho-Florez, Teacher
ccamachoflorez@hackensackschools.org
Mr. Scott Davis, Teacher
I teach CP Marketing and Head Swim Coach.
Ms. Jessica Dos Anjos, Teacher
jdosanjos@hackensackschools.org
Mr. Daniel Excellent, Teacher
dexcellent@hackensackschools.org
Ms. Beth Gilman, Teacher
I'm Ms. Gilman, a math teacher and the freshman class advisor for the 2026-27 school year here at HHS. You can find me in room 347!
Ms. Danielle Hampson, Teacher
dhampson@hackensackschools.org
HI! I can be found in Room 330 and am happy to help my students at any time! You can email me with any questions
Mr. Derek Han, Teacher
Ms. Laura Koepke, Teacher
I have 20 years of teaching experience at Hackensack High School. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics Education, a Master’s degree in Educational Technology, and dual certification in ESL/Bilingual Education. My experience combines mathematics instruction, educational technology, and supporting diverse learners.
Ms. Caitlin Kropilak, Teacher
ckropilak@hackensackschools.org
This is my 14th year teaching here at Hackensack High School. I currently teacher AP Statistics, Honors Discrete/Statistics (which is duel enrollment through FDU), and Advanced Senior Math.
Mrs. Jovan Lipari, Teacher
jovanlipari@hackensackschools.org
Mrs. Lipari is in her 18th year of teaching and her 13th year at Hackensack High School. She is a graduate of Rutherford High School and Montclair State University. Mrs. Lipari specializes in Algebra 1 and is passionate about helping students build confidence and a strong foundation in mathematics.
Mr. Guillermo Mercado, Teacher
gmercado@hackensackschools.org
Mr. Edward Renz, Teacher
Mr. Lynrick Rhymer, Teacher
Ms. Melissa Ruello, Teacher
Special Education Math teacher at HHS since 2017. When I am not in the classroom you can find me with the HHS Drama Club making magic on the stage!
Mr. Thomas Spadafino, Teacher
tspadafino@hackensackschools.org
Graduate of Secaucus HS. Graduate of NJIT BSIE '89. Graduate of Montclair University MBA '95
Ms. Jane Spielberger, Teacher
jspielberger@hackensackschools.org
I have an undergrad degree in Finance, a MBA in Marketing and and MAT in teaching. I worked in finance for 2 years, marketing for 10 years and teaching for 15 years. I teach Financial Literacy, Honors Economics, AP Microeconomics, and AP Macroeconomics.
Physical Education
-
Ms. Victoria Arvizu, Teacher
Mr. Ronald Barhona, Teacher
rbarahona@hackensackschools.org
Mr. Greg Beebe, Teacher
Mr. Richard Clyburn, Teacher
rclyburn@hackensackschools.org
Ms. Altagracia Medina, Teacher
Altagracia Medina is a Health and Physical Education teacher at Hackensack High School, where she works with students in grades 9–12. She is passionate about promoting healthy lifestyles, physical fitness, wellness, and lifelong healthy habits. Through engaging and supportive learning experiences, she empowers and encourages students to build confidence, develop teamwork skills, and make positive choices for their physical and overall well-being.
Mr. Joseph Mocera, Teacher
Mr. Dan Reddan, Teacher
Mr. Brett Ressler, Teacher
bressler@hackensackschools.org
Ms. Meredith Resto, Teacher
I have taught at the Hackensack for 22 years as a Phys. Ed and Health teacher.
Mr. Michael Walker, Teacher
Science and CTE Department
-
Why do we exist? Students as Thinkers We believe that our students can become scientifically literate, critical thinkers who can use evidence to make sense of the natural world and solve problems using the practices of science and engineering. Students as Leaders in Equity We believe that the legacy of disparities in STEM education and lack of opportunity, access to STEM careers will be disrupted when our students are empowered to see themselves as cultural beings who engage in the scientific community. Students as Environmentalists We believe that our self-actuated, scientifically literate students will make decisions and take actions that will mitigate the effects of climate change and protect our environment and those most in need.
-
CP Environmental Science/CP Bilingual Environmental Science
AP Environmental Science
CP Biology/CP Bilingual Biology
Honors Biology/Honors Bilingual Biology
AP Biology
CP Chemistry/CP Bilingual Biology
Honors Chemistry/Honors Bilingual Chemistry
AP Chemistry
CP Physics
AP Physics 1
AP Physics C
CP Anatomy and Physiology
Honors Anatomy and Physiology
Medical Technology
Advanced Scientific Research
Culinary 1, 2, and 3
Power Mechanics 1, 2, 3 (Auto shop)
CAD Architecture 1, 2, and 3
Metals and Welding 1
-
Mr. Kelly Carroll, Teacher
kcarroll@hackensackschools.org
I have been a teacher of Culinary Arts 1, 2, and 3 for 19 years at Hackensack High School. I am a Graduate of Johnson & Wales University in Hospitality Management and I have a Master Degree in Educational Administration.
Mr. Fred Colacino, Teacher
fcolacino@hackensackschools.org
20 years AP Physics Teacher
Certified in Mathematics & Physical Science
Certified In Engineering Design
BE Mechanical Engineering Stevens Inst. Tech
MS Mechanical Engineering Stevens Inst. Tech
13 Years Engineering & Design Experience
Licensed Professional Engineer NY & NJ
Hold a US PatentMs. Chetna Desai, Teacher
Ms. Tania Feliz-Patron, Teacher
tfeliz-patron@hackensackschools.org
Ms. Angelie Ferrante, Teacher
aferrante@hackensackschools.org
Mr. Louis Ferrante, Teacher
lferrante@hackensackschools.org
Currently teaching Anatomy and Physiology and CP Biology. Have also taught PreAP/Honors and AP Biology, CP and AP Environmental Science, Marine Biology, ELL/Bilingual Biology and Introductory Physical Science. Former graduate of HHS and 33 veteran of the department, all in 320. Married to Mrs. Ferrante.
Mr. Benjamin Keeler, Teacher
Dr. Keeler obtained his Ph.D. in Neuroscience from Drexel University and was engaged in biomedical research for 15 years before becoming a science teacher. Dr. Keeler teaches Advanced Topics in Research and Design.
Mr. Greg Keller, Teacher
I am an Alumnus of the HHS class of 1998 and attended Texas A&M University where I got my degree in Marine Biology. I have been teaching in the Hackensack School district since 2003, starting at the middle school and then moving up to the High School in 2007. I currently teach CP Bio, Honors and AP Biology. In the past I've had the pleasure of teaching Marine Bio, and Entomology. Outside of school I have two boys who keep me busy running to all of their sports (Track, Football, Lacrosse, Swimming). Fun Fact, I'm the third generation of person in my family to work for Hackensack Public Schools. My grandmother was a school nurse at Fairmount and my mother was a teacher and vice principal in the district.
Ms. Michele Lourenço, Teacher
mlourenco@hackensackschools.org
Michele Lourenço is a high school chemistry educator specializing in inquiry-based STEM instruction and hands-on laboratory design. Ms. Lourenço focuses on demystifying complex concepts, fostering analytical thinking and preparing high school students for awareness in science in their daily life, higher education and careers in science.
Mr. Joseph Maselli, Teacher
jmaselli@hackensackschools.org
Certified to teach physics and chemistry. Been teaching for 27 years. The students’ favorite teacher.
Mr. John Palumbo, Teacher
jpalumbo@hackensackschools.org
Science teacher of Hackensack residents for some time; also an alum of Hackensack.
Mr. Albert Piotrowski, Teacher
apiotrowski@hackensackschools.org
Mr. Mario Santivanez, Teacher
msantivanez@hackensackschools.org
Comet at heart, class of 2000. Returned to my Alma Matter to follow in the footsteps of my role models. I have taught science at HMS/HHS and coached XC/Track for almost 20 years.
Ms. Victoria Shaw, Teacher
Mr. Richard Teller, Teacher
Mr. William Vivona, Teacher
Dr. Leven Wadley, Teacher
Dr. Wadley is a midlife career changer into teaching. He studied and taught physics as an undergraduate, got his PhD in physics studying the structure of molecules, and left it all behind (for a while) to become a currency trader on Wall Street. After several years, the draw to teach brought him to HHS, and he's been here teaching physics ever since.
Ms. Brooke Zwier, Teacher
AP Environmental Science teacher who's passionate about community action and conservation efforts!
Social Studies
-
CP/Honors US History 1
CP/Honors US History 2
CP/Honors/AP World History
CP/AP Psychology
AP US History
Honors Sociology
Black Studies
CP Law
Honors Criminal Justice
-
Ms. Rommy Buttafuoco, Para-professional
rbuttafuoco@hackensackschools.org
Mr. Christopher Capone, Teacher
Teaching for 27 years, attended Kean and Montclair State Universities. I am currently teaching College Prep World History.
Mr. Colin Church, Teacher
HHS Class of 1999
A.A.S. in Automotive Technology
B.A. in History
M.A. in History with a concentration in early American History
Coach of Ice Hockey and Softball
Mr. Russell Cohen, Teacher
russcohen@hackensackschools.org
Mr. David DuPiche, Teacher
ddupiche@hackensackschools.org
Ms. Laura Durso, Teacher
I teach AP World History, CP World History and ESL classes. I am also the coach for the Academic Decathlon team.
Mr. Keith Grant, Teacher
I am a proud 1986 graduate of Hackensack High School. I am an alumnus of Lafayette, class of 1990. I earned Master Degree in Education Admin at the University of Albany. I joined the Social Studies in September 2007 and have been blessed with the opportunity to "touch the future" since then.
Mrs. Sandra Harrington, Teacher
sharrington@hackensackschools.org
Graduate of Montclair State University with both BA and MA. Teacher of American History at HHS since 2002.
Mr. Brian Hooper, Teacher
Ms. Claire Mackey, Teacher
Mr. Henry Reyes, Teacher
Mr. Aaron Taylor, Teacher
Mr. Jared Wexler, Teacher
jiwexler@hackensackschools.org
In my 22nd year of teaching in Hackensack. 1993 HHS Graduate and longtime Hackensack resident.
Special Education and Services
-
Ms. Michele Balik, Teacher
Teacher of RISE program. Teaching students independent life skills for success. Implementing Community Based Instruction as well as Work Based Learning, to provide real world experience.
Dr. Sam Barkhordari, School Psychologist
sbarkhordari@hackensackschools.org
Dr. B joined the district in 2025 as a CST school psychologist. She began her career in education in 2014 as a teacher with New York City's District 79 before earning her doctorate from Fairleigh Dickinson University. She enjoys working with students and supporting them as they grow both academically and personally.
Ms. Tania Bello, Teacher
Teacher of RCR and ICS English 4.
Mr. Philip Brophy, Teacher
17 years teaching at HHS
Ms. Corinne Carroll, Teacher
cmcarroll@hackensackschools.org
Mr. Abel Castaneda, LDT-C
acastaneda@hackensackschools.org
I have been an educator for the Hackensack Public Schools for over 30 years. I am currently a learning consultant and a member of the Child Study Team at Hackensack High School.
Mr. Ralph Dass, Teacher
Ms. Aysha Drakeford, Teacher Assistant
adrakeford@hackensackschools.org
Mr. Jose Graziani, Teacher
jgraziani@hackensackschools.org
Ms. Ana Gyulay, Teacher
Mr. Rodney Lane, Teacher
Mr. James Levitzke, Teacher
jlevitzke@hackensackschools.org
In my 29th year teaching at Hackensack HS.
Graduated from Hackensack HS in 1983 and started teaching here in 1998 after graduating from the College of Charleston in South Carolina with my Bachelor's Degree and Ramapo College with my Masters Degree.Mr. Keith Lewkowitz, Teacher
klewkowitz@hackensackschools.org
Ms. Jennifer Millard, Social Worker
jmillard@hackensackschools.org
Ms. Jacquelyn Muniz, Teacher
Special Education teacher - Highly Qualified in Math, Science, History, English.
Certified: TOH, Reading Specialist, Art, Work Based LearningMs. Jamie Pumilia, Teacher
jpumilia@hackensackschools.org
Ms. Shanira Robinson, Teacher
srobinson4@hackensackschools.org
Ms. Erika Rusnak, Transition Specialist
I have been a member of the Child Study Team at Hackensack High School since 2018, serving as a Transition Specialist. I hold a Master’s degree in Counseling and enjoy supporting students as they prepare for life after high school and work toward their post-secondary goals.
Ms. Carolina Valera, Learning Disabilities Teacher Consultant
Special Education Teacher / Case Manager / LDTC
The Arts
-
CP Art 1
Computer Graphics 1
Computer Graphics 2
Honors Art
Honors Art Studio
CP Creative Studio
CP Music Appreciation
CP Mixed Chorus
Honors Chorus
Honors/AP Music Theory
CP Band
Honors Wind Ensemble
CP Dance
-
Ms. Tonia Andrews, Teacher
tandrews@hackensackschools.org
Teacher of Art
Ms. Rebecca Grant, Dance Teacher
My name is Rebecca Grant. I am the dance teacher for both Hackensack Middle School and Hackensack High School. I also run the Hackensack Middle School Comet Dance Club.
Ms. Sonya Kypreos, Teacher
skypreos@hackensackschools.org
Teacher of Art
Mrs. Lisa MacVicar, Teacher, Director of Bands
lmacvicar@hackensackschools.org
Mrs. MacVicar is a veteran teacher in the Hackensack Public School District. She is in charge of teaching Concert Band, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, Marching Band and Small Group Ensembles. In addition to instrumental performing groups, Mrs. Mac (as her students call her) is also in charge of teaching Honors and AP Music Theory and is the faculty advisor for the Tri-M National Music Honor Society.
Ms. Julie Platte, Director of Vocal Music
Ms. Platte has been teaching at HHS for over 15 years. She holds a BM in Voice Performance from Rutgers and an MM in Voice Performance and Pedagogy from Penn State. In addition to teaching chorus, musical theater and music appreciation, she is the music director for the spring musical.
Ms. Betsy Romero, Teacher
World Languages and Multi Lingual Department
-
Ms. Jasmine Acevedo, Teacher
jacevedo@hackensackschools.org
Ms. Edvane Colacino, Teacher
ecolacino@hackensackschools.org
Ms. Johanna Espinal, Teacher
jespinal@hackensackschools.org
Mr. Giancarlo Estrada, Teacher
gestrada@hackensackschools.org
Ms. Soraya Gonzalez, Teacher
sgonzalez6@hackensackschools.org
Ms. Claudia Guedes, Teacher
Ms. Luisa Manzur, Teacher
I am a high school Spanish teacher with several years of experience in education. I enjoy helping students develop their language skills and learn about different cultures.
Ms. Elsa Márquez Aponte, Teacher
emarquezaponte@hackensackschools.org
Elsa Márquez Aponte is an experienced educator with 16 years of dedicated service at Hackensack High School. She currently teaches AP Spanish Language & Culture and CP Spanish 2, with extensive teaching experience spanning all levels of World Languages, including CP Spanish 1–3 and Spanish for Native/Heritage Speakers. A published author in trauma-informed educational strategies.
Mr. Stanley Membreno, Teacher
smembreno@hackensackschools.org
Ms. Stefanie Moreno, Teacher
Started teaching in 2004 as an English teacher in Mexico City, Mexico. Started teaching in Hackensack High School in 2007. Have taught Spanish to native and non-native students for over 15 years in the high school. In 2023, switched gears and went back to teach English to multilingual students.
Ms. Satu Minna Schmitz, Teacher
mschmitz@hackensackschools.org
Mrs. Schmitz has been teaching ESL in Hackensack High School since 2007. She holds degrees and certifications in English and Multicultural Education with ESL, and she is a current Jewish-Christian graduate student at Seton Hall University. She writes poetry every morning and has published some of her original work. She was born and raised in Finland.
Ms. Erica Nolasco, Teacher
enolasco@hackensackschools.org
Ms. Mary Ann Russo, Teacher
Mrs. Tejada, Teacher
Mrs. Tejada is a proud graduate of Montclair State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts, and The College of New Jersey, where she earned her Master’s degree. She has been teaching at Hackensack High School since 2008, where she teaches Italian and Spanish. Originally from Hackensack, she has a special connection to the community and has dedicated her career to helping students develop their language skills and appreciation for other cultures.