REMINDER:
The Hillsboro R-3 School District will be closed Wednesday, November 26 through Friday, November 28 in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.
This extended break provides families the opportunity to spend valuable time together, catch up with loved ones, and safely travel to holiday destinations ahead of Thanksgiving Day.
District leaders encourage students, staff, and families to take this time to rest, reflect, and enjoy the season with gratitude. Classes will resume on Monday, November 30.
The Hillsboro R-3 School District wishes all families in the community a safe and joyful Thanksgiving holiday.
The Hillsboro R-3 School District will be closed Wednesday, November 26 through Friday, November 28 in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.
This extended break provides families the opportunity to spend valuable time together, catch up with loved ones, and safely travel to holiday destinations ahead of Thanksgiving Day.
District leaders encourage students, staff, and families to take this time to rest, reflect, and enjoy the season with gratitude. Classes will resume on Monday, November 30.
The Hillsboro R-3 School District wishes all families in the community a safe and joyful Thanksgiving holiday.
The Hillsboro R-3 School District is actively recruiting for three critical support roles that contribute to school success every day: paraprofessionals, bus drivers, and custodians. These positions provide excellent opportunities for individuals who want to make a meaningful impact in the lives of students and in the community.
Link to all jobs available in the Hillsboro R-3 District: https://www.applitrack.com/hsdr3/onlineapp/default.aspx
Paraprofessionals
Paraprofessionals at Hillsboro R-3 work directly alongside classroom teachers and support the learning journey of students across multiple grade levels. Responsibilities include assisting with instruction, supervising lunch or recess duties, helping small groups of students, preparing materials, and supporting one-on-one needs. Salary range is $17.00-$21.00 per hour depending on education and years experience.
Candidates benefit from a role that is dynamic and student-focused, offering the chance to foster positive learning experiences and student growth. Previous postings show pay rates varying by experience and assignments, and the district offers full benefits in many cases. Applications are submitted via the district employment portal under the “Support Staff” category.
Bus Drivers
The school district’s transportation department is looking for dedicated individuals to serve as bus drivers — an opportunity to be a visible and trusted presence in students’ daily lives. According to the district’s job announcement, pay ranges from $18.50 to $27.25 per hour depending on experience, and no prior bus driving experience is required as paid training is provided.
Bus drivers at Hillsboro R-3 are responsible for safely transporting students to and from school and approved activities, maintaining vehicle inspections and logs, and contributing to a safe school-transportation system.
This position offers competitive compensation, entry-level training, and a chance to serve the community in a meaningful way — ensuring students arrive safely, ready to learn.
Custodians
Custodial staff play a vital role in creating a safe, clean, and efficient environment where students and staff can thrive. At Hillsboro R-3, custodians maintain school facilities year-round, performing duties such as floor care, disinfecting restrooms and drinking fountains, cleaning windows and classrooms, and supporting building events.
The district offers full-time, 12-month opportunities with benefits, with starting pay ranging from approximately $15.00 to $22.75 per hour, depending on experience. For candidates who enjoy being active, completing hands-on work, and contributing to a positive learning environment, a custodial role at Hillsboro R-3 offers job stability and the chance to support students behind the scenes.
These support roles represent meaningful ways to join the district’s mission: “Together, we educate and inspire the learners of today and the learners of tomorrow.”
Link to all jobs available in the Hillsboro R-3 District: https://www.applitrack.com/hsdr3/onlineapp/default.aspx
Paraprofessionals
Paraprofessionals at Hillsboro R-3 work directly alongside classroom teachers and support the learning journey of students across multiple grade levels. Responsibilities include assisting with instruction, supervising lunch or recess duties, helping small groups of students, preparing materials, and supporting one-on-one needs. Salary range is $17.00-$21.00 per hour depending on education and years experience.
Candidates benefit from a role that is dynamic and student-focused, offering the chance to foster positive learning experiences and student growth. Previous postings show pay rates varying by experience and assignments, and the district offers full benefits in many cases. Applications are submitted via the district employment portal under the “Support Staff” category.
Bus Drivers
The school district’s transportation department is looking for dedicated individuals to serve as bus drivers — an opportunity to be a visible and trusted presence in students’ daily lives. According to the district’s job announcement, pay ranges from $18.50 to $27.25 per hour depending on experience, and no prior bus driving experience is required as paid training is provided.
Bus drivers at Hillsboro R-3 are responsible for safely transporting students to and from school and approved activities, maintaining vehicle inspections and logs, and contributing to a safe school-transportation system.
This position offers competitive compensation, entry-level training, and a chance to serve the community in a meaningful way — ensuring students arrive safely, ready to learn.
Custodians
Custodial staff play a vital role in creating a safe, clean, and efficient environment where students and staff can thrive. At Hillsboro R-3, custodians maintain school facilities year-round, performing duties such as floor care, disinfecting restrooms and drinking fountains, cleaning windows and classrooms, and supporting building events.
The district offers full-time, 12-month opportunities with benefits, with starting pay ranging from approximately $15.00 to $22.75 per hour, depending on experience. For candidates who enjoy being active, completing hands-on work, and contributing to a positive learning environment, a custodial role at Hillsboro R-3 offers job stability and the chance to support students behind the scenes.
These support roles represent meaningful ways to join the district’s mission: “Together, we educate and inspire the learners of today and the learners of tomorrow.”
Students have been working in teams to create different arrays to visualize and understand different math facts.
Hawks for Heroes bracelets go on sale tomorrow! Help show your support to our veteran heroes! #HawksForHeroes #NeverForget
Hillsboro Intermediate School’s new drama club, Hawks on Stage, is bringing creativity and excitement to young performers this school year. The club, which began in September, includes more than 90 fourth through sixth graders who meet weekly after school to learn acting, stagecraft, and production skills.
To purchase tickets: https://hillsborointermediate.ludus.com/
Ticket Prices are $3.50 for students and $6.00 for adults. Both include a small fee included in the price of a ticket.
The group will present its first-ever performance, a Christmas musical titled ’Twas the Night Before Christmas, on December 3 and 4 in the Hillsboro High School theater.
There will be two separate casts for the production. The Red Cast will perform on Wednesday, December 3, at 7 p.m., and the Green Cast will take the stage on Thursday, December 4, at 7 p.m.
Hawks on Stage provides students an opportunity to build confidence, teamwork, and creative expression while introducing them to the world of theater. Families and community members are invited to attend and support these young performers as they take the stage for their debut show.
To purchase tickets: https://hillsborointermediate.ludus.com/
Ticket Prices are $3.50 for students and $6.00 for adults. Both include a small fee included in the price of a ticket.
The group will present its first-ever performance, a Christmas musical titled ’Twas the Night Before Christmas, on December 3 and 4 in the Hillsboro High School theater.
There will be two separate casts for the production. The Red Cast will perform on Wednesday, December 3, at 7 p.m., and the Green Cast will take the stage on Thursday, December 4, at 7 p.m.
Hawks on Stage provides students an opportunity to build confidence, teamwork, and creative expression while introducing them to the world of theater. Families and community members are invited to attend and support these young performers as they take the stage for their debut show.
No school on Tuesday, November 11
In honor of Veterans Day, we take time to reflect, remember, and thank all who have served our country.
#HawkPride #ThankYouVeterans
In honor of Veterans Day, we take time to reflect, remember, and thank all who have served our country.
#HawkPride #ThankYouVeterans
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.
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.
Check this off your To-Do list!
Yearbook Sales Period 10/01/25-03/27/26
Cost: $20
Online Store Link: https://shop.yearbookmarket.com/hillsborointermediatehillsboro
The 5th Grade Craft Club is up and running! Students kicked off the fun by making tie-dye bags and handmade clay dishes. We can’t wait to see what they create next! #IntermediateStrong #CraftClub
Reading Club Fun & Interaction through our artistic expression… making “action movie posters” based on the book we just finished. #ReadingClub
Our 4th graders got into the Halloween spirit by making as many words as they could from the word “Halloween” — using letter tiles! #IntermediateStrong #GreatDayToLearn
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.
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.
Mrs. Reilly’s 4th graders jumped into learning all about mealworms today! Ask you student all about it! #GreatDayToLearn
4th grade Art Club students finished their candy corn and mummy jars, made Halloween shrinky dinks, and enjoyed socializing while snaking on pizza!
Check this out!
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.
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.
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
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
Homecoming vibes + pumpkin painting = a perfect day in Mrs. Browne’s 6th grade!
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.
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.
Our 4th graders got creative making Shrinky Dink messages for our upcoming grandparent or special person day! 💌After creating their messages, they colored a Shrinky Dink of their choice to take home. #IntermediateStrong
