<p>Home of the Hound Dogs, Hillcrest is one of the larger elementary schools in District 58, with 400 students. Paula Thomas is the school's principal, heading a team of 18 full-time teachers. Hillcrest is one of seven district schools to receive a state Academic Excellence award for having at least 90 percent of students meeting or exceeding state standards in math and reading for three consecutive years. The school also boasts an active PTA.</p>
