The Hillsboro R-3 School District's commitment to keeping families informed and engaged has earned national recognition.
The National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) has honored the District with an Award of Merit in its 2026 Publication and Digital Media Excellence Awards for the Winter 2025 edition of The Nest, Hillsboro R-3's community newsmagazine.
The national awards program recognizes outstanding school communication efforts from across the country. Publications are evaluated on writing, design, organization and their effectiveness in communicating with families and the community. The recognition places Hillsboro R-3 among school districts nationwide that have demonstrated excellence in public education communications.
For Superintendent Dr. Jon Isaacson, the award is a reflection of the district's commitment to transparency and community engagement.
"Awards like this are never the result of one person; they reflect a team committed to excellence," Isaacson said. "Tracy Sitze and Scott Readnour have poured countless hours into creating a publication that informs, celebrates and connects our community. I am incredibly grateful for their dedication and proud that their work has earned national recognition while showcasing the outstanding students, staff and programs that make Hillsboro R-3 such a special place. Strong communication builds trust, and The Nest has become an important part of our commitment to keeping our community informed and engaged."
Published throughout the school year, The Nest gives families and community members an inside look at life across the Hillsboro R-3 School District. Each edition features student achievements, classroom highlights, district initiatives, financial updates, staff recognitions and upcoming events.
The publication is mailed to every household in the district twice each year, ensuring every family has access to important district information, while digital editions are published quarterly on the district's website.
The award-winning Winter 2025 edition highlighted student success, district initiatives, financial stewardship and community engagement—topics that reflect the district's ongoing efforts to educate, inform and celebrate the accomplishments of its students and staff.
The Nest is produced through the collaborative efforts of District Grant Writer and Community Relations Coordinator Scott Readnour and Hillsboro teacher Tracy Sitze. Working alongside building principals, district leaders and contributors from across the district, the team strives to provide timely, transparent and engaging information that keeps families connected to their schools.
The next edition is already on the way. The Summer 2026 edition of The Nest will arrive in mailboxes throughout the district in July and will feature back-to-school information, district updates, student and staff highlights, and a look ahead to the 2026-2027 school year.
As Hillsboro R-3 continues to grow and evolve, district leaders say effective communication remains one of the most important ways to build trust, strengthen partnerships and keep the community connected to the success of its schools.
