The HHS Drama Department presents "As You Like It" again this Saturday at 7:00pm and this Sunday at 2:30pm. 🎭 Come and see this Shakespeare comedy for a mere $5 for students and $10 for adults! Tickets are sold at the box office one hour before the show. 🎟️
Photos by yearbook student, Riley Bagi 📸
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.”
The HHS Drama department is presenting Shakespeare's "As You Like It" on:
-Nov 15th at 8pm
-Nov 16th at 2:30pm
-Nov 22nd at 7pm
-Nov 23rd at 2:30pm
It's a silly romp through the forest featuring wrestling, clowns, disguises, and political intrigue! 🌳🎭
🇺🇸 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
🇺🇸 Honoring Our Heroes 🇺🇸
"It takes courage to serve your country."
Today, we hosted a Veterans Day Tribute Assembly and breakfast to celebrate and thank our local veterans.
We’re deeply grateful for their service, courage, sacrifice and for sharing their powerful stories with our students.
#VeteransDay | #HawkPride |
"It takes courage to serve your country."
Today, we hosted a Veterans Day Tribute Assembly and breakfast to celebrate and thank our local veterans.
We’re deeply grateful for their service, courage, sacrifice and for sharing their powerful stories with our students.
#VeteransDay | #HawkPride |
HILLSBORO, Mo. — The Hillsboro and De Soto basketball programs are joining together this winter to raise awareness and support for individuals and families affected by cancer through a series of Pink Out games.
Both the boys and girls basketball teams from each school will take part in this effort, creating four opportunities for fans to show their support and stand united in the fight against cancer.
Game Schedule:
Boys: Jan. 13 at De Soto | Feb. 13 at Hillsboro
Girls: Jan. 22 at Hillsboro | Feb. 12 at De Soto
For the past several years, the Hillsboro boys basketball team has hosted Pink Out games during its home and away matchups with De Soto. The event has grown into a meaningful annual tradition, and this year both the boys and girls programs are expanding the effort to bring even more awareness and community involvement.
Visit this link to purchase Pink Out Gear: https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/bqEKMbMktL
Fans can purchase special Pink Out T-shirts and sweaters to wear during the games. For each item sold, $5 will be donated to someone battling cancer within each district. The online store will remain open through Thursday, Nov. 13.
Both the boys and girls basketball teams from each school will take part in this effort, creating four opportunities for fans to show their support and stand united in the fight against cancer.
Game Schedule:
Boys: Jan. 13 at De Soto | Feb. 13 at Hillsboro
Girls: Jan. 22 at Hillsboro | Feb. 12 at De Soto
For the past several years, the Hillsboro boys basketball team has hosted Pink Out games during its home and away matchups with De Soto. The event has grown into a meaningful annual tradition, and this year both the boys and girls programs are expanding the effort to bring even more awareness and community involvement.
Visit this link to purchase Pink Out Gear: https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/bqEKMbMktL
Fans can purchase special Pink Out T-shirts and sweaters to wear during the games. For each item sold, $5 will be donated to someone battling cancer within each district. The online store will remain open through Thursday, Nov. 13.
Jr. High Veterans Tribute Assembly and Breakfast Nov. 10, 2025 🇺🇸
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.
Please utilize and share this list of Food Banks and other resources for families who might need assistance. https://mofamilyresources.findhelp.com/
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.
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.
Rockin' Hawks took their show on the road down to the elementary today!
Red Ribbon Week Starts Monday! #JustSayNo
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.
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.
Spooky Science Family Night is October 27th! Come join the fun! 🕸️🐌
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
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!
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
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.
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.
