Justin Lawson knows Hillsboro R-3 from the inside out.
A Hillsboro High School graduate, longtime employee, and recent District Support Staff Employee of the Year, Lawson has spent more than a decade helping ensure classrooms stay comfortable, buildings operate efficiently, and students and staff have the environments they need to succeed. Now, he is preparing to take on his biggest role yet.
The Hillsboro R-3 School District has announced Lawson as its next Director of Buildings and Grounds, succeeding longtime director Ray Bess, who will retire in October after years of dedicated service to the district.
For many people, the work of a maintenance department often goes unnoticed. Lights turn on. Heating and cooling systems work. Athletic fields are ready for competition. Classrooms are safe, clean, and welcoming. Behind all of it is a team of professionals working every day to keep the district running smoothly.
Lawson has been a key part of that effort since joining Hillsboro R-3 in 2011 as the district's HVAC Lead Technician. Over the years, he has become known for his technical expertise, strong work ethic, and commitment to serving students and staff.
"Justin's dedication to our schools, his technical expertise, and his commitment to serving students and staff made him the clear choice for this important leadership role," said Superintendent Dr. Jon Isaacson. "As both a Hillsboro graduate and longtime employee, he understands our community, our facilities, and our mission. We are excited about the future of our Buildings and Grounds Department under his leadership."
Lawson's qualifications extend beyond his work in the district. He holds an Associate of Applied Science degree in HVACR and a certificate in Welding Technology from Jefferson College. He also serves as an adjunct instructor in Jefferson College's HVACR program, helping train future skilled trades professionals.
His recent selection as Hillsboro R-3's 2025-26 Support Staff Employee of the Year highlighted the respect he has earned from coworkers throughout the district. During the interview process for the director position, Lawson emphasized maintaining the department's tradition of excellent service while continuing to explore opportunities for innovation, efficiency, and improvement.
The transition also marks the beginning of a well-planned handoff between two respected leaders. Bess will remain with the district through October, working alongside Lawson to ensure a smooth transition and share the knowledge gained during his years of leadership.
"Ray has dedicated countless hours to ensuring our facilities remain safe, clean, and operational for students, staff, and the community," Isaacson said. "His leadership has helped shape the outstanding learning environments we enjoy today. We are grateful for his service and appreciative that he will continue supporting the district during this transition."
For Lawson, the opportunity is both professional and personal. As a Hillsboro graduate, he understands the importance of the district's schools to the community and the role quality facilities play in supporting student success.
As Hillsboro R-3 looks toward the future, district leaders believe Lawson's experience, leadership, and deep roots in the community will help continue the tradition of excellence that students, staff, and families have come to expect.
Please join Hillsboro R-3 in congratulating Justin Lawson on his appointment as Director of Buildings and Grounds and thanking Ray Bess for his years of dedicated service to Hawk Nation.