Hackensack High School
Hackensack High School is a four-year comprehensive public high school in Hackensack, New Jersey, serving students in grades 9 through 12 as the sole secondary school in the Hackensack Public Schools district.[1] Founded in 1894 with its current building's cornerstone laid in 1916 and expansions in 1966, the school enrolls approximately 1,726 students (as of the 2023–24 school year) in a diverse community where 69.5% identify as Hispanic, 19.3% as Black, and 7.3% as White (as of the 2023–24 school year).[2][1] The school's academic program emphasizes rigorous curriculum with over 200 courses, including 23 Advanced Placement (AP) offerings in subjects such as Calculus AB and Biology, where 32% of students participate in AP exams and 221 achieved scores of 3 or higher in 2023-24 (as of the 2023–24 school year).[2] Dual enrollment opportunities engage 34.5% of juniors and seniors (as of the 2023–24 school year), while a 1:1 Chromebook initiative since 2015-16 supports technology integration across all classrooms.[2] With a student-teacher ratio of 12:1 and a focus on cultural diversity, intellectual growth, and lifelong learning, Hackensack High School aims to prepare students as responsible, community-oriented citizens through partnerships with families and local organizations.[1][3] The institution has earned recognition as a top U.S. high school by U.S. News & World Report in 2017, 2020, and 2021, and by Newsweek in 2010, 2011, 2013, and 2017, reflecting strong performance in college readiness with an index score of 23.5/100.[4][5] Athletically, the Comets compete in 26 varsity sports within the Big North Conference, with a storied history spanning over 120 years highlighted by a dedicated Hall of Fame inducting athletes, coaches, and teams for excellence.[4][2][6] Notable recent achievements include the boys' 4x400 relay team winning the Big North Freedom Division and North 1, Group 4 sectional titles in 2025, alongside Academic Decathlon successes as New Jersey regional winners in 2017, 2019, 2020, and 2023, and state champions in 2023.[2][7] Beyond sports, over 30 student clubs foster extracurricular engagement, complemented by career and technical education (CTE) programs, English as a Second Language (ESL) support, and community health initiatives like parental technology classes and student screenings.[2] Under Principal James Montesano, a Hackensack alumnus with a Master's in Educational Leadership, the school instills "Comet Pride" while maintaining an 88% four-year graduation rate (as of the 2023–24 school year) and addressing achievement gaps through data-driven instruction.[4][2]History
Founding and Early Years
Hackensack High School originated as the first formal high school program within the Hackensack Public Schools, established in 1894 to provide secondary education for local students. Initially, the program operated as part of the district's broader public school system, which had evolved from earlier private academies and institutes in the area, including a private high school in the Schraalenburg section of Bergen County prior to the state's free public school law of 1871.[8] This initiative reflected Hackensack's early commitment to accessible education in northern New Jersey, where the town served as a hub for surrounding communities lacking their own secondary facilities. The school's first dedicated building was constructed in 1897 at the intersection of First and High Streets, transitioning the program to a comprehensive four-year high school status. By that year, it had become the only four-year high school in Bergen County, enrolling 117 students—nearly half of the county's total high school population of 263.[8] From its inception, Hackensack High School admitted students from Hackensack and neighboring towns like Maywood, fostering a regional educational role that continued into the 20th century through send-receive arrangements. During the early 20th century, the school played a vital part in local education amid national events, including the World War eras, where enrollment experienced fluctuations due to students enlisting or contributing to war efforts. For instance, community schools like those in Hackensack saw temporary dips in attendance as young men joined the military during World War I, though the institution remained a cornerstone for preparing future generations in the Hackensack Valley.[8]Building Expansions and Modern Developments
The cornerstone for Hackensack High School's current building, located at the corner of First and Beech Streets, was laid on December 2, 1916, and the structure opened to students in March 1918.[2] This marked a significant upgrade from the school's prior location at First and High Streets. In the mid-20th century, the school underwent modernization efforts, including additions and improvements to accommodate increasing student populations during the post-World War II era.[8] A major expansion occurred in 1966, incorporating the neighboring Beech Street School and constructing a distinctive two-story bridge over First Street to connect the structures seamlessly.[2] This addition preserved elements of the original architecture while enhancing functionality, with the bridge serving as a key feature linking academic spaces across the campus. Recent developments emphasize sustainability and environmental education. In June 2024, a community rain garden was installed along the First Street entrance, featuring native plants to manage stormwater runoff and promote ecological awareness; it was officially dedicated on June 10, 2024, with integrated public art installations.[9][10] Complementing these efforts, the campus includes solar arrays on rooftops and carports, generating renewable energy as part of the district's broader green initiatives.[11] Facility upgrades, such as renovations to the library, auditorium, and fitness center, maintain the historic integrity of the 1918 structure while adapting it for contemporary use.[2] The athletic fields, including those on Nichols Street, continue to support school programs, with naming honors reflecting alumni contributions to the institution's legacy.[11]Academics
Curriculum and Programs
Hackensack High School offers a comprehensive four-year curriculum for students in grades 9 through 12, aligned with New Jersey state standards and emphasizing a balance of core academic subjects, electives, and specialized pathways. Required courses include four years of English language arts, three years of mathematics, three years of science, three years of social studies, one year of world language, one year of career and technical education, one year of fine and performing arts, one year of physical education and health, and 130 hours of financial, economic, business, and entrepreneurial literacy integrated across disciplines.[12] The curriculum supports diverse learning needs through 44 honors-level courses that provide accelerated pacing and deeper exploration of subjects such as mathematics, science, and humanities.[12] Advanced academic opportunities include 24 Advanced Placement (AP) courses in subjects like calculus, biology, English literature, and United States history, enabling students to earn college credit through examinations. Additionally, the school provides 27 dual credit courses in partnership with local institutions, allowing high school students to enroll in college-level classes for both high school and postsecondary credit. Vocational and career-technical education programs fulfill the state's one-year requirement and extend into practical pathways, such as the Work Based Learning (WBL) program, which integrates technical skills training with employability development through hands-on experiences and industry partnerships to prepare students for immediate workforce entry or further training.[12][13] Specialized initiatives enhance the curriculum's focus on leadership and cultural education. The E.T. Marlatt Chapter of the National Honor Society recognizes students for academic excellence, leadership, service, and character, with membership requiring demonstrated high achievement and participation in monthly meetings and community service activities led by faculty advisors. In 2023, the Hackensack Public Schools district advanced integration of African American history into the social studies curriculum across all grades, exceeding state mandates by embedding comprehensive units—spanning 5-10 days per curriculum segment—into American and world history courses, developed as a collaborative "living document" with teacher training from the New Jersey Bar Association and alignment to 2020 state standards.[14][15] The school's academic structure supports strong college preparation, with 25.7% of juniors and seniors enrolled in AP courses and 34.5% participating in dual enrollment programs during the 2023-24 school year. Approximately 73% of graduates pursue postsecondary education or vocational programs, reflecting effective guidance in career and college readiness. For the Class of 2025, notable matriculations to four-year institutions included students attending Villanova University, William Paterson University, Virginia State University, and Vermont State University, among others, underscoring pathways to higher education.[2][16][12] Faculty support these programs with 139 full-time equivalent teachers for the 2023-24 school year, resulting in a student-teacher ratio of 12:1, which facilitates personalized instruction and access to advanced coursework.[2]Awards, Recognition, and Rankings
Hackensack High School has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the top high schools in America in its 2025-2026 profile, emphasizing academic excellence and equity.[12] In the latest rankings, the school placed #6,445 nationally out of 17,901 public high schools and #211 in New Jersey, based on factors including state assessment performance, graduation rates, and college readiness.[5] These rankings reflect the school's efforts in preparing students for postsecondary success, with a college readiness index of 23.5 out of 100.[5] According to 2026 Niche rankings, Hackensack High School ranks #19 out of 68 for best high schools for athletes in Bergen County, highlighting its strong extracurricular sports programs alongside academics.[17] It also stands as the #20 most diverse public high school in the county out of 52, underscoring its inclusive student body drawn from varied ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds.[17] The school received a B overall grade from Niche, with an A- for diversity.[18] The school's four-year graduation rate for the Cohort of 2023 was 89%, slightly below the state average of 91% but demonstrating solid outcomes for its diverse population, including 87% for Hispanic students and 94% for Black students.[16] On state assessments, proficiency levels vary by subject: 50% in English language arts, 16% in Algebra I, and 14% in science for grades 9-11 during the 2023-24 school year.[16] Historically, the school ranked 242nd out of 339 New Jersey public high schools in 2014 according to New Jersey Monthly, and #679 nationally by Newsweek that same year, marking early recognition for its academic programs.[19]Athletics
Teams and Facilities
Hackensack High School maintains an extensive athletic program with 26 varsity teams for boys and girls, competing under the auspices of the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) and the Big North Conference.[12][20] These teams span a variety of sports, including football, basketball, soccer, track and field, volleyball, tennis, cross country, swimming, wrestling, softball, baseball, and field hockey, fostering opportunities for student-athletes to develop skills in team-based and individual competitions.[21] The programs emphasize balanced participation across genders, aligning with NJSIAA guidelines for equitable athletic offerings. The school's athletic identity is embodied by its mascot, the Comet, and official colors of navy blue and gold, which appear on uniforms and promotional materials.[22] Football competes in the North Jersey Super Football Conference, while other sports adhere to Big North Conference scheduling and regulations.[23] With an enrollment of approximately 1,726 students as of the 2023-2024 school year, Hackensack High School supports diverse involvement in both interscholastic varsity sports and intramural activities, enabling broad access to physical education and recreational opportunities.[12][1][18] Key facilities supporting these programs include the Tom Della Torre Athletic Field, used primarily for football, soccer, and track events; the main gymnasium for indoor sports like basketball and volleyball; and an on-campus track that underwent a full reconstruction in summer 2023 to enhance safety and performance standards.[24][25] These resources, located at the school's campus on First and Beech Streets, accommodate practices, home games, and community events, contributing to the overall infrastructure for student wellness and competitive athletics.[26]Championships and Achievements
Hackensack High School's basketball program achieved significant success in the mid-20th century, securing New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) Group III state championships in 1945 and 1952 under coach Howard Bollerman. The 1945 team clinched the title over North Plainfield at the Elizabeth Armory, marking the school's first state basketball crown. Seven years later, in 1952, the Comets defended their dominance by defeating Princeton High School 74-59 at the Armory, completing an undefeated season and earning Bollerman his second championship.[27] The boys' soccer team demonstrated remarkable dominance from 1949 to 1970, capturing NJSIAA state titles in Group IV in 1960, 1968 (co-champion with Ewing), and 1970 (co-champion with Hamilton East). This period of sustained excellence featured consistent playoff appearances and regional supremacy, with the program winning three state crowns amid a streak of competitive seasons.[28] In football, the Comets experienced a resurgence in the 1990s, particularly from 1992 to 2000, highlighted by back-to-back North 1 Group IV state sectional championships in 1992 and 1993. The 1993 squad finished with a 10-1 record, culminating in a decisive playoff run that solidified the era's achievements under strong coaching and standout performances. This success contributed to the program's legacy of resilience and competitive edge in Bergen County football.[29] The track and field program has produced numerous school records and individual accolades, underscoring the school's athletic depth. Notable records include Joe Dawkins' 10.31 seconds in the 100 meters (1995) and 21.58 seconds in the 200 meters (1995), as well as Leroy Brooks' 50.85 seconds in the 400 meters (1999). Ausar Walcott set a school mark of 50.80 seconds in the 400 meters at the 2008 NJSIAA Group 4 State Championships, while also excelling in football as a multi-position standout who earned All-State honors and a Division I scholarship to the University of Virginia.[30][31][32] In 2025, the boys' track and field team achieved notable success with the 4x400-meter relay securing the Freedom Division League title, North 1 Group 4 sectional championship, and Meet of Champions victory.[33] The Hackensack Athletic Hall of Fame honors over 120 years of excellence by inducting athletes, coaches, and teams that have shaped the school's sports legacy. Established to celebrate Comet achievements, it includes enshrinements for championship squads like the 1945 and 1952 basketball teams, the soccer teams from 1960, 1968, and 1970, and 1990s football standouts, alongside individual contributors such as Bollerman and track stars. Notable inductees also feature Malcolm Bush, a standout tight end who led the football team to playoff success and secured a scholarship to Rutgers University in 2009.[6][34][35]Student Life
Demographics and Enrollment
Hackensack High School serves students primarily from the city of Hackensack, as well as send-receive students from the neighboring municipalities of South Hackensack and Rochelle Park.[36][37] For the 2023-24 school year, the school enrolled 1,735 students in grades 9 through 12.[2] The student body is highly diverse, reflecting the multicultural composition of the region. In 2023-24, Hispanic or Latino students comprised 69.5% of the enrollment, followed by Black or African American students at 19.3%, White students at 7.3%, and Asian students at 3.0%, with smaller percentages for American Indian/Alaska Native (0.1%), Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (0.2%), and two or more races (0.6%).[2] Socioeconomic indicators highlight significant needs among the population, with 54.9% of students classified as economically disadvantaged, eligible for free or reduced-price lunch. Additionally, 17.3% of students were identified as multilingual learners requiring English language support services.[2] Enrollment at the school has experienced fluctuations over the past decade, influenced by changes in send-receive relationships with other districts. For instance, the Maywood Public Schools ended its longstanding send-receive arrangement with Hackensack in 2020, leading to a withdrawal of Maywood high school students and contributing to a decline in enrollment from 1,775 students in 2014 to 1,744 in 2023.[38] However, district-wide enrollment trends showed a rebound, with average daily enrollment increasing by 4.88% to 5,334 students across all grades in 2023-24, stabilizing the high school's population at recent levels.[38]Extracurricular Activities and Traditions
Hackensack High School offers over 50 student clubs and organizations that foster leadership, creativity, and community engagement beyond the classroom.[39] These include academic-focused groups such as the National Honor Society, where 27 students were inducted into the E. T. Marlatt Chapter in March 2025, recognizing their excellence in scholarship, service, leadership, and character.[40] Other notable organizations encompass the Key Club for service projects, Model United Nations for global awareness, Debate Team for public speaking skills, Robotics Club for STEM innovation, and cultural groups like the Black Student Union, French Club, Italian Club, and Spanish Honor Society.[39] Community service initiatives are prominent, with the Interact Club organizing local volunteer efforts to address community needs, such as food drives and environmental cleanups.[41] The school's award-winning arts programs provide avenues for creative expression through dedicated clubs and performances. The Drama Club stages annual productions at the Hackensack High School Auditorium and the Hackensack Performing Arts Center, including recent shows like You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown in early 2025 and Check, Please on November 13-14, 2025.[39][42] Visual arts are supported by the Art/Open Studio Club and Fashion Club, where students create works for school events and community displays, such as clay plant markers for environmental projects.[39] Music programs feature the Marching Band and Jazz Band, which perform at school assemblies and local festivals, alongside the Tri-M National Music Honor Society, Guitar Club, and Hip Hop and DJ Club for diverse musical exploration.[39] The Literary Magazine club publishes student writings, contributing to the school's cultural output. Environmental stewardship is emphasized through initiatives like the Beekeepers Club, which maintains on-campus hives to promote pollinator conservation, and collaborative projects such as the Hackensack Community Rain Garden. Installed on June 1, 2024, along the school's First Street entrance in partnership with the Northern New Jersey Community Foundation and local volunteers, the rain garden uses native plants to filter stormwater runoff, reduce flooding, and educate students on ecosystem management; art students contributed custom clay markers and a bird bath during its June 10, 2025 dedication.[39][9] A key tradition is the singing of the school alma mater, "Old Hackensack," during commencements, assemblies, and special events to instill school pride. The lyrics, composed to honor the institution's gold and blue colors, read:Oh Hackensack, dear Alma Mater,Homecoming celebrations unite students and alumni with parades, spirit weeks, and gatherings that highlight Comet pride, while ongoing alumni events, such as class reunions for milestones like the 50th for the Class of 1975, maintain connections to the school's legacy.[44][45] Community service traditions, coordinated by groups like the National Honor Society and Key Club, include annual drives and partnerships that extend the school's impact into Hackensack's broader community.[39]
For thee we raise the gold and blue.
And strive to lift thy banner higher
In each and everything we do.
And when our college days are over
And from the old haunts we must go,
We'll think of thee, Old Hackensack,
And love thee ever more.[43]