All of the ingredients were there to result in a perfect dish.

That finished product was the Forest Fest, a Roots and Shoots fundraiser, that was enjoyed by a large crowd once again on a June morning at the Hillside Intermediate School.

According to the spearhead of this lively event, Kiran Masud, who is the Co-Advisor with Sean Smith with the highly popular Roots and Shoots program at Hillside, “the Forest Fest brought together students, staff, and community members to support Hillside Intermediate School's meadows and trails.”

“The event successfully raised approximately $1,500,” Ms. Masud, a 5h Grade English Language Arts Teacher at Hillside, revealed.

On this morning of Saturday, June 1, the beautiful weather provided the backdrop to this successful gathering.

The event featured live animals such as baby goats, seeing-eye dogs, and sheep. Attendees enjoyed a bustling farmer's market, musical performances by talented teachers, the innovative high school robotics team, and booths hosted by groups like the Washington Valley Garden Club, and SeedEd.

“Adding to the excitement was a splash tower where students had the opportunity to splash their teachers,” Ms. Masud said.

She explained that the funds raised will directly benefit the maintenance and enhancement of the school's natural areas, ensuring that students can continue to learn and explore in a thriving outdoor environment.

Forest Fest not only provided fun and entertainment but also served as a significant reminder of the positive impact a united community can achieve. The success of Forest Fest is a result of the dedication and enthusiasm of everyone involved, demonstrating the incredible outcomes when a community comes together for a common purpose.

Dr. Tali Axelrod, the Hillside Principal, was among the many guests who soaked in the sunshine and the various exhibits.

“What a beautiful day we had for the Forest Fest this year. The weather was beautiful. There were so many fun booths and our soccer shootout was awesome,” Dr. Axelrod said.
“Our chorus sang and our very own teachers sang and performed in the band A wonderful Saturday Forest Fest at Hillside.”

Ms. Masud summed up this fantastic day.

“Forest Fest not only provided fun and entertainment but also served as a significant reminder of the positive impact a united community can achieve,’ she said. “The success of Forest Fest is a result of the dedication and enthusiasm of everyone involved, demonstrating the incredible outcomes when a community comes together for a common purpose.”

Hillside Intermediate School

Forest Fest was a festive day at Hillside