With the November 3 election approaching, the Hillsboro R-3 School District is encouraging residents to watch or listen to two important episodes of Hawk Talk featuring Superintendent Dr. Jon Isaacson.
What exactly is Proposition H? How much would it cost taxpayers? What could it mean for seniors receiving Jefferson County's Senior Property Tax Credit? And what happens to district programs and services if the proposition passes or fails?
These are some of the questions addressed in Episodes 13 and 14 of Hawk Talk, the district's official podcast, hosted by Director of Communications Patrick Quinn.
Together, the episodes provide an opportunity for parents, employees, taxpayers and community members to better understand the proposal and the decisions facing the district.
Episode 13: Understanding Proposition H and What It Means for Hillsboro
What is Proposition H, why is it on the ballot and how could it affect taxpayers and our schools?
In Episode 13, Dr. Isaacson explains the proposed $1.39 operating tax levy increase and discusses how the additional revenue would be used if voters approve Proposition H.
Topics include:
What Proposition H would fund: Proposed improvements to school safety, facilities, infrastructure, technology and educational spaces, along with support for district operations.
Understanding the tax levy: How assessed valuation works, where homeowners can find that information and how to estimate the potential property tax impact.
School safety and facilities: Proposed improvements to secure school entrances, building security, traffic flow and learning environments.
Senior Property Tax Credit: What the proposal means for homeowners already approved for Jefferson County's Senior Property Tax Credit who continue to qualify.
The NEST: Additional information residents can find in the Fall 2026 edition of the district's community newsletter.
Episode 14: What Happens if Proposition H Passes or Fails?
How could the November 3 election affect the programs and services Hillsboro R-3 families depend on?
In Episode 14, Dr. Isaacson discusses the district's financial challenges and what the outcome of Proposition H could mean for students, staff and families.
The conversation focuses on the potential impact of state funding reductions and the decisions district leaders may face depending on the election results.
Topics include:
Student transportation: How funding decisions could affect bus service, athletic transportation and field trips.
Athletics and activities: What changes could be considered for sports, band and other extracurricular opportunities.
Educational programs: Potential impacts on electives, career and technical education and other student learning opportunities.
Staffing and district operations: How future budgets could affect positions, programs and services.
Both election outcomes: What additional revenue would allow the district to address and what spending reductions may need to be considered if the proposition is not approved.
Some changes could begin during the current school year, while others are being considered for 2027-28. The district has emphasizes that not all potential reductions are final.