Congratulations to Mrs. Jan Hoth for being nominated as February's Staff Member of the Month. The word of the month was Encouraging. Those that nominated her stated, "Students report that she is kind, encouraging, teaches the students good techniques, has high energy, and helps/cares for ALL students!"
"Jan radiates positivity and encouragement. Students report connecting to her and her sparking their learning. She is a great teacher and overall person!"
"Jan radiates positivity and encouragement. Students report connecting to her and her sparking their learning. She is a great teacher and overall person!"
NICO BROOKS - 3rd Place State Finish!
Nico Brooks has captured her second medal at the State Wrestling Championships. Nico is the first two time medalists for the Girls Wrestling Program.
Congratulations Nico and Coaches!
Nico Brooks has captured her second medal at the State Wrestling Championships. Nico is the first two time medalists for the Girls Wrestling Program.
Congratulations Nico and Coaches!
📣 Hillsboro R-3: This Conversation Matters.
Byrnes Mill Police Department is hosting a Parent Seminar on Teenage Drug & Alcohol Use on:
📅 Monday, March 9
⏰ 5:00–7:30 PM
📍 Northwest High School Cafeteria
This free event is designed to help parents and caregivers:
-Recognize signs of teen drug and alcohol use
-Understand current trends
-Learn how to have meaningful conversations at home
-Access helpful community resources
Families from across Jefferson County, including Hillsboro R-3, are welcome to attend. Student are also welcome.
There is no cost to attend and no RSVP required.
If you’ve ever wondered:
“Would I know the signs?”
“How do I even start that conversation?”
“What resources are available locally?”
This seminar is for you.
Byrnes Mill Police Department is hosting a Parent Seminar on Teenage Drug & Alcohol Use on:
📅 Monday, March 9
⏰ 5:00–7:30 PM
📍 Northwest High School Cafeteria
This free event is designed to help parents and caregivers:
-Recognize signs of teen drug and alcohol use
-Understand current trends
-Learn how to have meaningful conversations at home
-Access helpful community resources
Families from across Jefferson County, including Hillsboro R-3, are welcome to attend. Student are also welcome.
There is no cost to attend and no RSVP required.
If you’ve ever wondered:
“Would I know the signs?”
“How do I even start that conversation?”
“What resources are available locally?”
This seminar is for you.
This Saturday Feb 28th, the Sweetheart dance is at the high school from 7-10 pm. During the dance NHS will be offering a snack cart with all of the proceeds going to St. Jude.
Participate in the spirit week this week as well! 💗
❤️ You Could Save a Life.
Join us for our Community & Staff CPR Class on
📅 Wednesday, March 18
⏰ 6:00–8:00 PM
📍 Hillsboro R-3 Primary School Cafeteria
🔗Register below!
This class is open to everyone — including students. Our nurses are often asked if younger students can participate, and the answer is yes. The younger, the better.
Learning CPR gives you the confidence and skills to act in an emergency. We hope you’ll save the date and consider joining us.
Sign-Up Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeuFgZRdmUd4Tu3mBfdsPWKldMpTx7RAiyaTK91te-MAhhvmQ/viewform
Join us for our Community & Staff CPR Class on
📅 Wednesday, March 18
⏰ 6:00–8:00 PM
📍 Hillsboro R-3 Primary School Cafeteria
🔗Register below!
This class is open to everyone — including students. Our nurses are often asked if younger students can participate, and the answer is yes. The younger, the better.
Learning CPR gives you the confidence and skills to act in an emergency. We hope you’ll save the date and consider joining us.
Sign-Up Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeuFgZRdmUd4Tu3mBfdsPWKldMpTx7RAiyaTK91te-MAhhvmQ/viewform
Our very own HS art student, Divine Badua, is enrolled in the Bob Ross art contest! Please use the link to VOTE for her so she can win! If she wins, her art will be displayed in a museum, she will appear on The Joy of Painting, and win $20,000!
The link to vote: https://artistickid.org/2026/divine-1ad6
Students in Mr. Wattle’s High School Art class are practicing the techniques of illustration and cartooning from the masters ✍️
Now is a great time to make your choice for the Hawk Award: Outstanding Service to School or Community!
The award recognizes employees and volunteers who have demonstrated exceptional achievement, dedication, or service to the Hillsboro R-III School District or the broader community.
Here is the link to vote: https://aptg.co/cMfrmL
Please send the form in an attachment to noack_betsy@hsdr3.org
If you know someone whose dedication, leadership, or service truly embodies the Hawk spirit, we encourage you to submit a nomination. Forms are available in all district offices. Click on the story below for the link to nominate.
Completed nomination forms may be sent to Betsy Noack at the Central Office by mail or email at noack_betsy@hsdr3.org.
Central Office mailing address is:
Hillsboro District Office
100 Leon Hall Parkway
Hillsboro, MO 63050
📅 Nomination deadline: Friday, Feb. 20, 2026
Let’s take a moment to recognize the individuals who make Hillsboro R-III a stronger, more caring place—one Hawk at a time
The award recognizes employees and volunteers who have demonstrated exceptional achievement, dedication, or service to the Hillsboro R-III School District or the broader community.
Here is the link to vote: https://aptg.co/cMfrmL
Please send the form in an attachment to noack_betsy@hsdr3.org
If you know someone whose dedication, leadership, or service truly embodies the Hawk spirit, we encourage you to submit a nomination. Forms are available in all district offices. Click on the story below for the link to nominate.
Completed nomination forms may be sent to Betsy Noack at the Central Office by mail or email at noack_betsy@hsdr3.org.
Central Office mailing address is:
Hillsboro District Office
100 Leon Hall Parkway
Hillsboro, MO 63050
📅 Nomination deadline: Friday, Feb. 20, 2026
Let’s take a moment to recognize the individuals who make Hillsboro R-III a stronger, more caring place—one Hawk at a time
Congrats to Brittany Ijames, our January Staff of the Month! The character word was Awe-Inspiring. 🩵
Hillsboro R-3 is hiring FULL-TIME SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS!
Link to application: https://www.applitrack.com/hsdr3/onlineapp/default.aspx...
Pay: $19.75–$28.50/hr
Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance & PTO
Schedule: AM and PM routes + assigned trips
If you love working with kids, want stable hours, and enjoy being part of the school community, we want to meet you!
Link to application: https://www.applitrack.com/hsdr3/onlineapp/default.aspx...
Pay: $19.75–$28.50/hr
Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance & PTO
Schedule: AM and PM routes + assigned trips
If you love working with kids, want stable hours, and enjoy being part of the school community, we want to meet you!
It's Your Choice: Teacher of the Year nominations now open across Hillsboro R-III
Each year, the Hillsboro R-III School District honors outstanding educators by recognizing one full-time classroom teacher, librarian, guidance counselor or similar position from each building to compete for the title of District Teacher of the Year. The program highlights educators who demonstrate excellence in teaching, dedication to students and a positive impact on their school community.
Nominations are open to peers, students, parents or guardians, and district patrons. Nomination forms must be submitted by March 6, 2026. A finalist will be selected from each attendance center, with the District Teacher of the Year chosen by a district committee.
Nomination forms can be completed online at this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeLSw1v38RMc6rgZXE46b05tnpNH4EcaNsbzQ8VVFzBsH9p7Q/viewform
Each year, the Hillsboro R-III School District honors outstanding educators by recognizing one full-time classroom teacher, librarian, guidance counselor or similar position from each building to compete for the title of District Teacher of the Year. The program highlights educators who demonstrate excellence in teaching, dedication to students and a positive impact on their school community.
Nominations are open to peers, students, parents or guardians, and district patrons. Nomination forms must be submitted by March 6, 2026. A finalist will be selected from each attendance center, with the District Teacher of the Year chosen by a district committee.
Nomination forms can be completed online at this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeLSw1v38RMc6rgZXE46b05tnpNH4EcaNsbzQ8VVFzBsH9p7Q/viewform
Congratulations to our January Students of the Month and Level Up award recipients! 🤍
Attention Hillsboro Hawks Bands alumni!
Do you miss playing? Do you want to perform at Hillsboro again? You’re in luck. The Hillsboro Hawks band is going to have its 3rd annual Pep Band Alumni night.
When: Friday, February 20th - Varsity Boys Basketball vs. the Perryville Pirates
Where: Hillsboro High School
Time: Rehearsal @ 5 pm in the band room; Game @ 7 pm
Wear your old Hillsboro Band shirt or Hillsboro Hawk gear or a Blue shirt and come make some awesome music to cheer on the Hawks Basketball team!
If you can make it or have questions, please contact Mr. Dedert at dedert_timothy@ hsdr3.org. Hope to see you there.
Do you miss playing? Do you want to perform at Hillsboro again? You’re in luck. The Hillsboro Hawks band is going to have its 3rd annual Pep Band Alumni night.
When: Friday, February 20th - Varsity Boys Basketball vs. the Perryville Pirates
Where: Hillsboro High School
Time: Rehearsal @ 5 pm in the band room; Game @ 7 pm
Wear your old Hillsboro Band shirt or Hillsboro Hawk gear or a Blue shirt and come make some awesome music to cheer on the Hawks Basketball team!
If you can make it or have questions, please contact Mr. Dedert at dedert_timothy@ hsdr3.org. Hope to see you there.
Hillsboro R-3 announces hiring of two assistant high school principals
Jan. 28, 2026 — Two Hillsboro High School graduates will help lead Hillsboro High School when the 2026-27 school year begins this fall. Jenny Welker, a 2007 graduate, and Jason Gillman, a 2001 graduate, will assume their roles as assistant principals beginning July 1.
Welker moves over to Hillsboro High School after more than 10 years teaching fifth grade at Hillsboro Intermediate, following a career start at Gateway Science Academy in St. Louis. She is a third-generation Hillsboro graduate. In 2025-2026, she also served as the first dean of student conduct at Hillsboro Intermediate School.
Welker earned a bachelor’s degree in English and a master’s degree in elementary education from Truman State University. She also holds a specialist degree in K-12 building leadership from Northwest Missouri State University.
Gillman is a third-generation Hillsboro alumnus who currently resides in the district. He joins Hillsboro R-3 after serving as assistant principal at Herculaneum High School in the Dunklin R-5 School District. Gillman brings more than 20 years of experience in education as a teacher, coach, and administrator.
Gillman earned a specialist degree in educational administration from Southeast Missouri State University and a Master of Science in educational administration from Missouri Baptist University.
Superintendent Dr. Jon Isaacson said, “Jenny and Jason both bring a strong connection to Hillsboro as alumni and employees, and a clear understanding of what our students, staff, and families expect from our high school. They combine professional experience with a genuine commitment to this community and our district. Working alongside Mr. Reece, I am excited about what this new leadership team will bring as they support teachers and create a positive, focused learning environment for our students.”
Jan. 28, 2026 — Two Hillsboro High School graduates will help lead Hillsboro High School when the 2026-27 school year begins this fall. Jenny Welker, a 2007 graduate, and Jason Gillman, a 2001 graduate, will assume their roles as assistant principals beginning July 1.
Welker moves over to Hillsboro High School after more than 10 years teaching fifth grade at Hillsboro Intermediate, following a career start at Gateway Science Academy in St. Louis. She is a third-generation Hillsboro graduate. In 2025-2026, she also served as the first dean of student conduct at Hillsboro Intermediate School.
Welker earned a bachelor’s degree in English and a master’s degree in elementary education from Truman State University. She also holds a specialist degree in K-12 building leadership from Northwest Missouri State University.
Gillman is a third-generation Hillsboro alumnus who currently resides in the district. He joins Hillsboro R-3 after serving as assistant principal at Herculaneum High School in the Dunklin R-5 School District. Gillman brings more than 20 years of experience in education as a teacher, coach, and administrator.
Gillman earned a specialist degree in educational administration from Southeast Missouri State University and a Master of Science in educational administration from Missouri Baptist University.
Superintendent Dr. Jon Isaacson said, “Jenny and Jason both bring a strong connection to Hillsboro as alumni and employees, and a clear understanding of what our students, staff, and families expect from our high school. They combine professional experience with a genuine commitment to this community and our district. Working alongside Mr. Reece, I am excited about what this new leadership team will bring as they support teachers and create a positive, focused learning environment for our students.”
There will be no school on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, in the Hillsboro R-3 School District, due to continued poor conditions in areas of the district.
Student and staff safety remains our priority.
The district will operate on an AMI Day.
Thank you for your continued cooperation and stay safe!
Dr. Jon Isaacson
Student and staff safety remains our priority.
The district will operate on an AMI Day.
Thank you for your continued cooperation and stay safe!
Dr. Jon Isaacson
The Hillsboro R-III Board of Education is accepting nominations for the Hawk Award for Outstanding Service to School and/or Community. The award recognizes employees and volunteers who have demonstrated exceptional achievement, dedication, or service to the Hillsboro R-III School District or the broader community.
An online nomination form is available here: https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ogbl#inbox/FMfcgzQfBZhxGKSFHMFknkqWmhVhdHxB?projector=1&messagePartId=0.1
All district employees and volunteers are eligible for nomination. Completed nomination forms should be submitted to Board Secretary Betsy Noack at the Central Office, either by mail or by email at noack_betsy@hsdr3.org. The deadline for nominations is Friday, Feb. 20, 2026.
Central Office mailing address:
Hillsboro District Office
100 Leon Hall Parkway
Hillsboro, MO 63050
An online nomination form is available here: https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ogbl#inbox/FMfcgzQfBZhxGKSFHMFknkqWmhVhdHxB?projector=1&messagePartId=0.1
All district employees and volunteers are eligible for nomination. Completed nomination forms should be submitted to Board Secretary Betsy Noack at the Central Office, either by mail or by email at noack_betsy@hsdr3.org. The deadline for nominations is Friday, Feb. 20, 2026.
Central Office mailing address:
Hillsboro District Office
100 Leon Hall Parkway
Hillsboro, MO 63050
We are in the middle of the winter season, and 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
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
Family Science Night on February 12th is going to be a lot of fun! 💕
Checkout what junior Elisabeth Pierce and Mrs. Leigh Kalista have created in the library! Elisabeth had some time to kill while waiting for her college classes to begin earlier this semester so she created a "Blind Date with a Book" station. Select books have been covered with a brown paper wrapper to conceal the title. Students are encouraged to take a chance on a book, and so far they are doing just that! 📚
This announcement pertains to everyone in the Hillsboro School District:
Hillsboro High School will recognize breast cancer survivors during its Pink Out basketball game on Thursday, Feb. 13th, as the Hillsboro and De Soto boys varsity teams face off. As part of the event, the Hillsboro R-3 School District is planning a special halftime presentation honoring breast cancer survivors from the school community. Families are invited to submit photos of loved ones who have battled breast cancer to be included in the tribute.
HOW TO SUBMIT PHOTOS OF SURVIVORS AND SHOW TRIBUTE TO THEM
Photos must be submitted electronically by Friday, Feb. 6th, and sent to mueller_katie@hsdr3.org.
Submissions should include the survivor’s first and last name and their connection to the district, such as a student relationship or staff role. Families may also choose to share additional details, including the type of breast cancer and important milestones in the survivor’s journey.
DINNER TO HONOR SURVIVORS AND FAMILY- HOW TO SIGN-UP FOR THE DINNER
In partnership with the local chapter of the national Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), Hillsboro High School will also host a dinner for survivors and their families beginning at 5 p.m. in the school library prior to the game. Survivors will receive free admission to the game, and families wishing to attend the dinner are asked to RSVP by completing the provided Google Form. The event is designed to honor survivors, raise awareness, and show support for those impacted by breast cancer within the Hillsboro community.
Hillsboro High School will recognize breast cancer survivors during its Pink Out basketball game on Thursday, Feb. 13th, as the Hillsboro and De Soto boys varsity teams face off. As part of the event, the Hillsboro R-3 School District is planning a special halftime presentation honoring breast cancer survivors from the school community. Families are invited to submit photos of loved ones who have battled breast cancer to be included in the tribute.
HOW TO SUBMIT PHOTOS OF SURVIVORS AND SHOW TRIBUTE TO THEM
Photos must be submitted electronically by Friday, Feb. 6th, and sent to mueller_katie@hsdr3.org.
Submissions should include the survivor’s first and last name and their connection to the district, such as a student relationship or staff role. Families may also choose to share additional details, including the type of breast cancer and important milestones in the survivor’s journey.
DINNER TO HONOR SURVIVORS AND FAMILY- HOW TO SIGN-UP FOR THE DINNER
In partnership with the local chapter of the national Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), Hillsboro High School will also host a dinner for survivors and their families beginning at 5 p.m. in the school library prior to the game. Survivors will receive free admission to the game, and families wishing to attend the dinner are asked to RSVP by completing the provided Google Form. The event is designed to honor survivors, raise awareness, and show support for those impacted by breast cancer within the Hillsboro community.
