The Hillsboro Primary School’s annual Holiday Bazaar Craft Fair will bring festive fun to the community on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Hillsboro Primary School, 101 Leon Hall Parkway.

This year’s event will include a special visit from Santa Claus, giving families the opportunity to take photos with Santa while enjoying the holiday shopping experience.

The Holiday Bazaar is a family-friendly community event, featuring a wide variety of local artisans and small businesses. Acceptable items include crafts, artwork, antiques, Christmas ornaments, home sales products, and other handmade or retail goods. Vendors selling or promoting alcohol, tobacco, firearms, or other prohibited products will not be accepted.

The Holiday Bazaar will also host the HawkPack Food Drive, collecting donations to support local families within the Hillsboro R-3 School District. Food items such as canned ravioli, Beefaroni, SpaghettiO’s, tuna and chicken packets, and canned Vienna sausages can be dropped off in front of the Primary Library throughout the event.

For more information, contact Hillsboro Primary School at (636) 789-0050.

2 days ago, Hillsboro R-III School District Communications
Santa is coming to the Holiday Bazaar this year
Please utilize and share this list of Food Banks and other resources for families who might need assistance. https://mofamilyresources.findhelp.com/
2 days ago, Shelby Walsh
food help
food help
food help
Hillsboro to Host District Quarterfinal Football Game on Halloween Night

HILLSBORO, Mo., — The Hillsboro Hawks will host the Sikeston Bulldogs in a Class 4, District 1 MSHSAA Quarterfinal football game on Friday, Oct. 31, at 7 p.m. at Hillsboro High School.

This marks the start of postseason play for the Hawks, who will take the field under the Friday night lights in front of what is expected to be a large home crowd.

Tickets for the game are $5 per person for all spectators ages 6 and older. Cash only will be accepted at the entrance gates. No digital tickets will be sold for this event.

Fans are encouraged to arrive early and help create a spirited atmosphere as the Hawks look to advance in the Class 4 state playoffs.

Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Hillsboro High School, located at 123 Leon Hall Parkway, Hillsboro, MO 63050.
4 days ago, Patrick Quinn
Hillsboro Football Hosts Sikeston in District Quarterfinals on Halloween Night
Rockin' Hawks took their show on the road down to the elementary today!
8 days ago, Tracy Sitze
Rockin' Hawks
Red Ribbon Week Starts Monday! #JustSayNo
8 days ago, Tracy Sitze
Red Ribbon Week (Facebook Post) (1)
The Hillsboro Primary School is accepting vendor applications for its annual Holiday Bazaar Craft Fair, scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Hillsboro Primary School, 101 Leon Hall Parkway.

If you are interested in being a vendor, here is a link to a google drive: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UZOWq_NYGilCKPUBur5tWMAaBeT0c_xH/view

The application window is open through Oct. 28, 2025. Vendors must submit their completed application with payment to the Hillsboro Primary School office.

Booth rentals are $45 per 12-foot space. Vendors may request access to electricity and tables on their application forms, though those who bring their own tables must adhere to the 12-foot maximum length. Due to updated booth spacing (14 feet total, allowing one foot of buffer on each side), specific booth locations from prior years cannot be guaranteed.

The Holiday Bazaar is a family-friendly community event, featuring a variety of local artisans and small businesses. Acceptable items include crafts, artwork, antiques, Christmas ornaments, home sales products, and other handmade or retail items. Vendors selling or promoting alcohol, tobacco, firearms, or other prohibited products will not be accepted.

Each application will be reviewed by the Hillsboro Primary Craft Fair Committee to ensure compliance with event guidelines. Vendors are asked to include a brief product description on their registration form. Accepted vendors will receive an information packet by mail with event setup and logistics details.

This year’s event will also feature a Friday evening setup period on Nov. 7 from 5 to 7 p.m.

For more information, contact Hillsboro Primary School at (636) 789-0050.
12 days ago, Patrick Quinn
Hillsboro Primary School Accepting Vendor Applications for 2025 Holiday Bazaar
Each year, the Hillsboro R-3 School District takes time to listen to its students, staff, and families. This fall, the district is participating in the School Climate & Culture Survey, administered independently by the University of Missouri and the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).

The survey is an important tool in helping the district understand how each school is performing in building positive relationships and fostering a caring school community — key goals outlined in Hillsboro’s Comprehensive School Improvement Plan (CSIP 2023–2028).

The survey measures progress in two core areas:

Adult-to-Student Relationships: Ensuring students feel supported by caring adults who hold high academic and behavioral expectations.

Student-to-Student Relationships: Fostering healthy, respectful peer interactions that contribute to a positive learning environment.

Students in grades 3–12, staff members, and parents in each building are invited to take part. The survey is brief, completely confidential, and administered by the University of Missouri and DESE. Individual responses are not shared with the district; only summary data is provided.

Once compiled results are available, they will be shared publicly at a Hillsboro R-3 Board of Education meeting and posted on the district’s website.

A sample of the survey questions sent to parents, staff, and students can be found: https://www.hsdr3.org/article/2480944

For questions about the survey, contact Patrick Quinn, Director of Communications, at quinn_patrick@hsdr3.org.
19 days ago, Patrick Quinn
We want to hear your feedback on Climate & Culture Surveys for the 2025 school year
Spooky Science Family Night is October 27th! Come join the fun! 🕸️🐌
19 days ago, Shelby Walsh
Spooky Science
We know the holiday season can be hard for many families and members of our community. Financial struggles may make it difficult to put gifts under the tree and families who have never had to ask for help before have found themselves struggling. It is our goal to ensure that our students in the Hillsboro R3 School District are able to have a Holiday Meal (Thanksgiving and/or Christmas) and have gifts to open on Christmas morning! ❤️ If you are in need of assistance or if you would like to help those in need, please click the link: https://sites.google.com/hsdr3.org/hillsboroholidayhelp/home
19 days ago, Shelby Walsh

HILLSBORO, Mo. — Hillsboro High School will take center stage this Friday, Oct. 10, as part of FOX 2 News’ Pep Zone—a live morning broadcast celebrating school spirit across the St. Louis region.

The excitement kicks off with a pep rally in Gym 1 at 6 a.m., featuring student performances, interviews, and spirited competitions leading up to the Hawks’ Friday night football game against DeSoto. FOX 2 will broadcast live at 6:30 a.m., showcasing Hillsboro’s pride, enthusiasm, and community spirit.

To encourage student participation, high school students who attend the 6 a.m. pep rally will receive free admission to the football game Friday evening.

The community is invited to tune in to FOX 2 News Friday morning to catch the action and join in the excitement.

Go Hawks!

25 days ago, Patrick Quinn
Hillsboro High School to Be Featured on FOX 2 News Pep Zone This Friday
Dear Parents and Guardians,

As we approach the winter season, we want to inform you that the district will continue to utilize Alternative Methods of Instruction (AMI) days, which allow students to continue their learning from home in the event of a school closure due to inclement weather. This plan enables the district to stay "open" while ensuring student learning continues, without the need to make up lost hours up to 36 hours (6 school days).

What is an AMI Day?

AMI days are designated days when students learn from home due to unforeseen closures, like snow days. On these days, students are expected to complete assignments and teachers will provide support and be available via email, ClassDojo, or other electronic means. This differs from a traditional snow day, where no assignments are required and teachers are not expected to be available.

Traditional Snow Days vs. AMI Days

For the 2025-2026 school year, our calendar includes a total of 171 student attendance days. The district will clearly communicate if a closure will be a traditional snow day or an AMI day through local media and all school communication channels.

● Traditional Snow Day: No assignments are required, and teachers are not available. These are “no school” days.

● AMI Day: Students complete assignments at home, and teachers are available electronically for questions.

What Does This Mean for Students?

On AMI days, students will receive assignments that can be completed at home, either digitally or on paper. Attendance on AMI days is based on the completion of these assignments. Assignments must be turned in upon completion or when students return to school. Students who do not complete assignments will be marked absent. Infinite Campus attendance will be updated the Sunday after each AMI day.

Next Steps and Communication

The district will continue to provide detailed instructions and updates as needed. Our goal is to ensure learning continues smoothly, even during unexpected weather events. The flexibility of AMI days helps us maintain our school calendar while prioritizing the safety of our students and staff.

Sincerely,

Melissa Hildebrand- Associate Superintendent
25 days ago, Patrick Quinn
DISTRICT PLANS FOR TRADITIONAL SNOW DAYS & ALTERNATIVE METHODS OF INSTRUCTION
After 25 Years, Hillsboro High School HVAC Retires: Board Approves $8.7 Million Replacement in 2026

The Hillsboro R-III Board of Education approved a major HVAC replacement project for Hillsboro High School—an essential investment in the health, safety, and well-being of our students, staff, and community. This project is part of the district’s long-range plan to modernize facilities and ensure safe, reliable facilities.

“We’ve stretched the old system as far as it could go, and now it’s time to move forward with a solution that saves money, improves comfort, and contributes to a stronger future for the district. This project is more than just replacing equipment—it’s a result of strategic planning and careful financial management—balancing energy savings, low-interest financing, and local investment to provide long-term value for our community. ” – Dr. Jon Isaacson, Superintendent.

Why Now?
The current HVAC system, initially installed in the high school building in 1999, is more than 25 years old and well beyond its expected service life. Our maintenance team, led by Director of Maintenance Ray Bess and HVAC technicians Justin Lawson and Chris Etling, has worked tirelessly to extend the system’s lifespan. But frequent breakdowns, rising repair costs, and the difficulty of finding replacement parts (including on eBay) made replacement the most responsible option for the future.

Financial Costs and Stewardship
The district administration is committed to using taxpayer dollars wisely while addressing urgent facility needs.

Cost of the Project - $8.7 million

Use of Capital Savings Funds - $2.5 million down payment from the District Capital Funds

Multiple Financing Sources to Secure the Best Rates and Terms, reducing Interest Costs
$1.6 million energy loan through the Missouri Department of Natural Resources at just 2.5% interest. Traditional loan for approximately $4.5 million with Bank of America at 3.9% interest over 15 years.

$60,000 in utility rebates earned through energy efficiency

By blending state energy financing, traditional loans, and local investment, the district can move forward with a plan that balances cost, responsibility, and long-term savings.

“The district has been setting aside funds each year for facility projects, and most of that money will now be committed to paying for this HVAC replacement over the next 10-15 years. That means we’ll have fewer dollars available for other building updates or ‘nice-to-have’ projects during that time. Still, replacing the high school’s system isn’t optional—it’s a necessity. Waiting longer would only cost more and create greater risk of system failure.” - Dr. Jon Isaacson

What’s Included
The project, engineered and managed by Schneider Electric, will replace nearly every major mechanical system in the high school, including:

72 water source heat pumps

2 boilers and 2 fluid coolers

35 exhaust fans

19 rooftop units (RTUs) across all zones of the building

System-wide building automation upgrades for better ventilation, airflow, and compliance

Long-Term Impact
Once complete, the district anticipates a 10% annual reduction in utility costs, adding to the success of earlier energy projects. In Phase 1 (2021), district-wide LED lighting and HVAC upgrades at the Primary School have already saved more than $290,000 in energy costs.

Looking Ahead
“This project reflects years of careful planning, responsible financial management, and a commitment to providing safe, efficient learning environments for our students,” - Dr. Clay LaRue, Assistant Superintendent of Operations

Construction is expected to begin soon, with completion scheduled before the start of school in August 2026. Schneider Electric will oversee the project, working closely with school officials to minimize disruption for students and staff.

The district administration would like to thank the Board of Education, Schneider Electric, and our dedicated maintenance team for their support and work on this critical investment at the High School.

26 days ago, Patrick Quinn
Picture of the side of the high school building. Mural says "This is Hawk Country"
Friday, October 3rd is the big day! The Hillsboro R-3 School District is very excited to get rolling with the tradition of a parade through Hillsboro and all of the events leading up to the Homecoming football game (10/3) and dance at the high school (10/4).

There are several things to keep in mind as we get ready for the event. The Parade Route begins at Hillsboro High School. Lineup for the parade begins at 1:30 at the Hillsboro High School side lot. The parade starts at 2pm. Please note that there will not be any candy thrown from any vehicles. Walkers will hand out candy this year. Beads, streamers, and balloons will be allowed on floats. It's important to keep things safe and the area around the parade route clean.

30 days ago, Patrick Quinn
2025 Parade Route Map
Hillsboro R-3 Community To Wear Green in Honor of National Liver Awareness Month and Early Childhood Center Student

HILLSBORO, Mo. — October is National Liver Awareness Month, and the Hillsboro R-3 School District is honoring one of its youngest students, Nola Faye Brown, who has shown extraordinary courage in the face of a rare and life-threatening disease.

Nola was diagnosed at just two months old with Biliary Atresia, a condition in which bile ducts in the liver are blocked or damaged, preventing the proper flow of bile. This condition can cause cirrhosis and eventual liver failure. At the time of her diagnosis, Nola had already suffered 54 percent permanent liver damage and was placed on a transplant list while undergoing frequent treatments and specialist visits.

In October 2022, at only one year old, Nola was hospitalized after her mother noticed a yellow discoloration to her skin. Physicians at that time warned that she would not live beyond the age of 2.

Now three years old, Nola has far surpassed those expectations. She has been released from near-daily medical visits to only requiring annual appointments, defying all odds and inspiring everyone around her.

To celebrate Nola’s strength and perseverance, the Hillsboro R-3 School District is inviting students, staff, families and community members to wear green on Friday, Oct. 6 in recognition of National Liver Awareness Month and in honor of Nola’s journey.

“Nola is a true picture of perseverance and strength,” said district officials. “We are so proud of her and invite everyone to join us in celebrating her resilience.”

About Hillsboro R-3 School District
The Hillsboro R-3 School District serves the families of Hillsboro, Mo., and is known as a Destination School District.
about 1 month ago, Patrick Quinn
Picture of 3-year-old Nola standing next to a fridge. October 6th we urge everyone to wear green in support of National Liver Awareness Month.
High-quality dental care is coming to the the Hillsboro School Disrict in October thanks to a partnership with Compass Health Network. Schedule your appointments now because the deadline will come quickly on October 6th. The dental cleanings, sealants and treatment will be done at school. They are safe, convenient and comfortable for all children.

Click HERE: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/1e295a6a1c724a5d89ca933a0d64c348?Region=Jefferson&Region2=Jefferson&Region3=Jefferson&Region4=Jefferson&Region5=Jefferson&fbclid=IwY2xjawNHkGxleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFianhGTThpQ2tLZndxUHVnAR4DN8B8h5kxBbtn7zewmMe8cGFZVQCaRaWS9r5RcqIrEA2izmCZF1uJO0Np0w_aem_ZwNUorvCQzQuX3gnyRbzzQ

All Medicaid plans are accepted. Most private insurance will be accepted and there will also be a sliding scale available so students can get treated by dentists.

The upcoming visit happens October 21st-October 31st.

Register by October 6th.

Questions? Call 636-267-1501
about 1 month ago, Patrick Quinn
October 21st-31st Mobile Dental Program is coming to Hillsboro R-3 School District
🎭 Hawks on Stage is in full swing!
🎭 Students are learning the proper way to audition for our upcoming musical ’Twas the Night Before Christmas. They even broke off into groups to start practicing the script—lots of excitement and talent already shining through! #IntermediateStrong #HawksOnStage
about 1 month ago, Tracy Sitze
Drama Club
Drama Club
Drama Club
Drama Club
Drama Club
Drama Club
Drama Club
Drama Club
Our 4th Grade Arts & Crafts Club got creative this week with two fun projects—tie-dyeing pillowcases and leaf pressing on clay to make beautiful trinket dishes!
about 1 month ago, Tracy Sitze
Art Club
Art Club
Art Club
Art Club
Art Club
Art Club
Art Club
Art Club

The Hillsboro R-3 School District is once again, very excited to get rolling with the tradition of a parade through Hillsboro and all of the events leading up to the Homecoming football game (10/3) and dance at the high school (10/4). There are several things to keep in mind as we get ready for the event. You will see in the picture provides in this post, the Parade Route begins at Hillsboro High School. Lineup for the parade begins at 1:30 at the Hillsboro High School side lot. The parade will start at 2pm. Please note that there will not be any candy thrown from any vehicles. NOTE: Walkers will hand out candy this year. Beads, streamers, and balloons will be allowed on floats. It's important to keep things safe and the area around the parade route clean.

If you have questions about the parade route or would like to take part as a private driver, please email Christy Schacht - schacht_christy@hsdr3.org

about 2 months ago, Patrick Quinn
2025 Parade Route, Parade Rules & Regulations Announced ahead of Friday, October 3rd Event
📢 Important Transportation Update for Families

Parents,

Beginning tomorrow, September 9, our Transportation Department will roll out an upgrade to our bus routing system. 🚌 Each student will receive a school ID card with a lanyard or backpack tag on Tuesday, September 9th during the PM routes.

These IDs are equipped with RFID technology to scan when students board and exit the bus. We will also provide a small instruction handout with the student ID. We ask that all bus riders use these ID cards to scan on and off the buses. 📲 There is an attachment with further details and instructions for My Ride K-12.

Our drivers and Transportation Department have undergone extensive training to prepare for this new system. ✅ While we hope for a smooth start, we want to be transparent that this is a new process and it may take some time to work out all the details. We kindly ask for your patience as we transition. 🙏

🚫 Lastly, this school year our district has seen an increase in requests for students to ride a bus to a friend’s house instead of their assigned pick-up and drop-off. As a district, we will continue our current practice of not allowing bus changes for after-school visits or alternate drop-off requests.

This practice is in place to ensure:

📢 Clear communication with drivers

🪑 Accurate seating and capacity on buses

🛡️ Safe, organized, and consistent transportation for all students

We kindly ask for your understanding and support as we uphold this procedure. 💙💛

Thank you for your partnership in supporting our drivers and Transportation Department. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions.

Dr. Clay LaRue
Assistant Superintendent – District Operations
Hillsboro R-3 School District – hsdr3.org

9661 Old Hwy 21 | Hillsboro, MO 63050
📞 (636) 789-0062 ext. 6011 | 📠 (636) 789-0080
about 2 months ago, Patrick Quinn
Important Bus Rider Update
We are hiring Paraprofessionals for the 2025-2026 School Year. Starting salary range is $17-$21 an hour depending on eduation and years of experience. You'll get a full benefits package including health, vision, dental and life.

If you are interested, please contact Betsy Noack directly at 636-789-0006. Email: betsy_noack@hsdr3.org.


POSITION SUMMARY
To assist teachers in providing instruction, guided practice, assessments, remediation and enrichment through a variety of learning opportunities and ensure a positive, successful educational experience for students. Assists in ensuring that all students acquire the grade level expectation skills set forth by Missouri Department of Education and Hillsboro R-3
curriculum.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES
Provides clerical assistance to assigned teacher (photocopies of necessary papers, laminating, prepare books, games and other teaching materials, type letters and class materials, recordkeeping, etc.).
Supervises children during lunch room duty, if assigned one-on-one or to a small group. Helps students to their seats, maintains the noise level and corrects misbehavior.
Assists teachers in instructing students, working with students one-on-one and/or in groups, by lecturing, demonstrating and using audiovisual aids and other materials to supplement learning.
Aids students with lessons, corrects homework and provides students with positive feedback and constructive criticism on assignments.
Assists in administering tests to evaluate students’ progress; along with data collection when requested by the teacher.
Enforces rules for behavior and procedures for maintaining order among students for whom he/she is responsible.
Aids in maintaining discipline in the classroom.
Recognizes and refers students encountering medical, physical and/or psychological problems seeking the assistance of District specialists as required.
Monitors students during instruction and independent work to ensure they understand the material.

MARGINAL DUTIES
Participates in faculty and professional meetings, educational conferences, mentor programs and training workshops as needed.
Attends staff meetings and serves on staff committees as required.
Assists in maintaining a physically and aesthetically attractive classroom setting and exercising proper care of school equipment.
Shares responsibility for supervision of students in all areas and for school activities, such as monitoring students between classes.
Performs additional tasks and assumes other responsibilities as assigned by the Teacher and/or Principal.

EVALUATION AND JOB PERFORMANCE
Support Staff Evaluation
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
None
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
High School Degree or equivalent
ECC/Primary/Elementary Buildings: 60 College Credit Hours or Frontline Course Certification or Para Professional test
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The employee may frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. The employee is frequently required to feel, grasp, push, reach with hands/arms, stoop, kneel, crawl, perform repetitive wrist, hand and/or finger movement, and move up or down from/to sitting position.
MENTAL DEMANDS
Ability to maintain confidentiality; communicate clearly both orally and in writing
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Exposed to moderate noise levels. May be exposed to loud noise levels while on lunch and recess duty.
Regularly exposed to varying inclement outdoor weather conditions while on recess duty.
This individual may be exposed to potentially hazardous bodily fluids.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Hillsboro R-III Schools considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected status.
about 2 months ago, Patrick Quinn
Hiring Paraprofessionals