Exploring Innovation and Digital Mastery at Oak Hill Academy
By Joseph A. Pacelli, Head of School
At Oak Hill Academy, students across every grade level are demonstrating remarkable creativity and technical skill through a broad array of computer-based learning experiences.
Sixth Grade — Digital Design
Sixth-grade students used Microsoft Publisher to produce polished posters and inspirational pieces. This project introduced them to professional layout tools and encouraged thoughtful consideration of visual communication and audience impact.
Seventh & Eighth Grade — Robotics and Design
Seventh- and eighth-grade students began exploring robotics with Sphero robots, focusing on Bluetooth connectivity and wireless communication principles. They applied design thinking and spatial reasoning as they created and iteratively refined custom mazes to test their robots.
Upper School — Game Design and 3D Innovation
Upper School students are designing a student-created, Jeopardy-style digital game that incorporates coding, interface design, and collaborative planning. They also studied heritage lessons, including the life and work of African American inventor Lewis Latimer. Inspired by Latimer’s contributions and contemporary advances in fabrication, students designed original objects which they then produced using the school’s 3D printer.
Lower School — Interactive Learning and Independent Projects
Lower School students participated in interactive lessons on the school’s Promethean Boards. After guided, hands-on instruction, they returned to individual computers to create projects that reflected the Promethean activities—blending collaborative learning with independent application.
Conclusion
As Computer Teacher Mrs. Marie Geroni states, Oak Hill students are engaging in advanced, forward-thinking digital work. Their curiosity, collaboration, and technical growth exemplify the Academy’s commitment to preparing students for a technology-rich future.
Oak Hill Academy is a NJ private school that is co-educational, independent, nonsectarian, and nonprofit for grades pre-kindergarten through eight. Oak Hill Academy is dedicated to a traditional, challenging, and caring learning environment that encourages comprehensive thought processes and deep understandings; thus promoting the wholesome intellectual, emotional, moral, and physical lifetime growth of our students. If you want to learn more about what makes Oak Hill Academy one of the best private school in NJ, visit us online at www.oakhillacademy.com , or subscribe to our mailing list to be notified when we post more topics.
Oak Hill Academy offers a rigorous, well‑rounded curriculum within a warm, close‑knit community. Small class sizes and individualized attention challenge and support students to reach their potential.
Students engage with age‑appropriate technology such as interactive classroom displays, tablets or laptops, and hands‑on STEM tools that enhance creativity, problem‑solving, and collaboration.
Student life includes engaging classes, clubs, arts, athletics, service opportunities, and community events designed to build friendships, leadership, and school spirit.
Oak Hill Academy 
