Summer School 2026: NEW Links & Why Now Is the Time to Get Signed Up!
Summer School is right around the corner in Hillsboro R-3, and now is the time for families to make sure their students are registered.
This year’s program will run from Thursday, May 28 through Tuesday, June 23, offering students across all grade levels a valuable opportunity to stay engaged, build skills, and prepare for the upcoming school year. With strong interest already building, families are encouraged to complete registration sooner rather than later to ensure placement.
Link to K-4th Grade Sign-up Forms: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeHtK2aEgB7eq9SMK3_Kw22vSiYDekVCIY_V2-7g0dnVv1oug/viewform
Link to 5th-12th Grade Sign-up Forms: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSejVELhdU-8zQzyKbdUQTAoXCJq1JxTUK4YMjjfbZQSz5fiyA/viewform
Summer School is right around the corner in Hillsboro R-3, and now is the time for families to make sure their students are registered.
This year’s program will run from Thursday, May 28 through Tuesday, June 23, offering students across all grade levels a valuable opportunity to stay engaged, build skills, and prepare for the upcoming school year. With strong interest already building, families are encouraged to complete registration sooner rather than later to ensure placement.
Link to K-4th Grade Sign-up Forms: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeHtK2aEgB7eq9SMK3_Kw22vSiYDekVCIY_V2-7g0dnVv1oug/viewform
Link to 5th-12th Grade Sign-up Forms: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSejVELhdU-8zQzyKbdUQTAoXCJq1JxTUK4YMjjfbZQSz5fiyA/viewform
🎨✏️ From Sketch to Shelf… it’s happening!
You may remember Mr. Mike Wattle’s Masters of Cartooning and Illustration class. These students don’t just draw. They study the greats, break down techniques, and bring their own ideas to life.
Now they’ve entered a whole new phase… publishing mode. 🖨️📚
Take a look at these behind-the-scenes moments as students assemble their very own comic books, piece by piece, just like a real production line.
This is creativity, collaboration, and real-world application all rolled into one.
#BoroBuilt
You may remember Mr. Mike Wattle’s Masters of Cartooning and Illustration class. These students don’t just draw. They study the greats, break down techniques, and bring their own ideas to life.
Now they’ve entered a whole new phase… publishing mode. 🖨️📚
Take a look at these behind-the-scenes moments as students assemble their very own comic books, piece by piece, just like a real production line.
This is creativity, collaboration, and real-world application all rolled into one.
#BoroBuilt
Have you been to the Art Expo yet?
It showcases art found in every school in the Hillsboro R-3 School District.
There is still time tonight and tomorrow, night at the Civic Center! 🎨
Hours are 4pm to 7pm.
Here are 4 quick things you need to know from the Spring Edition of The Nest: News From Hawk Nation:
1️⃣ Students are getting ahead
Real-world certifications, college credits, and hands-on learning are setting our students up for success after graduation.
2️⃣ We’re investing in our schools:
Facility upgrades and new opportunities are creating even better learning environments for our students.
3️⃣ Results you can be proud of 🏆:
From state championships to academic success, our students are achieving at a high level across the board.
4️⃣ Learning looks different here:
Engaging, real-world experiences are happening in classrooms every day across the district.
This is Hawk Nation in action. It’s worth your time.
👉 Read the full issue here: https://www.hsdr3.org/article/2847910
1️⃣ Students are getting ahead
Real-world certifications, college credits, and hands-on learning are setting our students up for success after graduation.
2️⃣ We’re investing in our schools:
Facility upgrades and new opportunities are creating even better learning environments for our students.
3️⃣ Results you can be proud of 🏆:
From state championships to academic success, our students are achieving at a high level across the board.
4️⃣ Learning looks different here:
Engaging, real-world experiences are happening in classrooms every day across the district.
This is Hawk Nation in action. It’s worth your time.
👉 Read the full issue here: https://www.hsdr3.org/article/2847910
Every school day starts and ends with them.
Our bus drivers are often the first smile our students see in the morning and the last wave they get in the afternoon. They safely transport what matters most to us, and they do it with care, patience, and consistency that doesn’t go unnoticed.
On Bus Driver Appreciation Day, we want to say THANK YOU to our Hillsboro R-3 drivers for everything you do for our kids… every route, every mile, every day. 💙🚌
Our bus drivers are often the first smile our students see in the morning and the last wave they get in the afternoon. They safely transport what matters most to us, and they do it with care, patience, and consistency that doesn’t go unnoticed.
On Bus Driver Appreciation Day, we want to say THANK YOU to our Hillsboro R-3 drivers for everything you do for our kids… every route, every mile, every day. 💙🚌
We’re THIS close… let’s finish it, Hawk Nation.
✈️This one is personal. We recently learned a student in our district has a grandfather heading on an Honor Flight next month.
Let’s help send him and others like him.
Hillsboro High students are raising money to sponsor a veteran for an Honor Flight and they’ve already hit $500+ toward their $800 goal.
📅Now the challenge has been extended to May 4 to give our community one more shot to step up.
💙 Donate to a class or just give what you can
🏆 Winning class gets a movie on May 8 + bragging rights
💪Let’s finish strong.
#HonorFlight #BoroBuilt
✈️This one is personal. We recently learned a student in our district has a grandfather heading on an Honor Flight next month.
Let’s help send him and others like him.
Hillsboro High students are raising money to sponsor a veteran for an Honor Flight and they’ve already hit $500+ toward their $800 goal.
📅Now the challenge has been extended to May 4 to give our community one more shot to step up.
💙 Donate to a class or just give what you can
🏆 Winning class gets a movie on May 8 + bragging rights
💪Let’s finish strong.
#HonorFlight #BoroBuilt
Due to the potential for changing weather conditions, Hillsboro R-3 School District will implement a 3-hour early release on Monday, April 27, 2026.
This proactive decision is being made to ensure that all students and staff are able to arrive home safely before conditions worsen. Due to the geographic size of the district, bus routes require several hours to complete, and releasing early allows us to avoid travel during potentially hazardous conditions.
Please note: There will be no afternoon Early Childhood classes on Monday.
Any additional changes or cancellations related to activities and athletics will be communicated tomorrow.
We understand that schedule changes can be challenging, and we appreciate your flexibility as we prioritize the safety of our students and staff.
Please continue to monitor district communication channels for any additional updates.
Thank you for your support.
Dr. Jon Isaacson
Superintendent
This proactive decision is being made to ensure that all students and staff are able to arrive home safely before conditions worsen. Due to the geographic size of the district, bus routes require several hours to complete, and releasing early allows us to avoid travel during potentially hazardous conditions.
Please note: There will be no afternoon Early Childhood classes on Monday.
Any additional changes or cancellations related to activities and athletics will be communicated tomorrow.
We understand that schedule changes can be challenging, and we appreciate your flexibility as we prioritize the safety of our students and staff.
Please continue to monitor district communication channels for any additional updates.
Thank you for your support.
Dr. Jon Isaacson
Superintendent
🎓 “Kiss a Senior Goodbye” 💙
It’s hard to believe, but the final days for the Class of 2026 are almost here.
Before they walk across that stage, you have a chance to make it personal. Write a note. Share a memory. Offer a few words they’ll carry with them long after graduation day.
💌 Anyone can participate. Parents, friends, former teachers, community members… even those who just want to say “we’re proud of you.”
Each message becomes part of a special delivery during their final week. A simple note can mean more than you think.
👉 Messages and donations are due May 7
📍 Email Cyndi Heitert at heitert_cyndi@hsdr3.org for details
Let’s make sure every senior feels it.
It’s hard to believe, but the final days for the Class of 2026 are almost here.
Before they walk across that stage, you have a chance to make it personal. Write a note. Share a memory. Offer a few words they’ll carry with them long after graduation day.
💌 Anyone can participate. Parents, friends, former teachers, community members… even those who just want to say “we’re proud of you.”
Each message becomes part of a special delivery during their final week. A simple note can mean more than you think.
👉 Messages and donations are due May 7
📍 Email Cyndi Heitert at heitert_cyndi@hsdr3.org for details
Let’s make sure every senior feels it.
💙 It is hard to tell who was cheering louder…
Today at the Jefferson County Special Olympics in De Soto, our athletes gave it their all. But just as powerful were the smiles, the high-fives, and the pure joy shared between competitors and their buddies.
This was not just about events or medals. It was about encouragement, connection, and celebrating every moment together.
You could see it in every race, every cheer, every hug. A reminder that sometimes the biggest wins are not measured at the finish line.
#BoroBuilt
Today at the Jefferson County Special Olympics in De Soto, our athletes gave it their all. But just as powerful were the smiles, the high-fives, and the pure joy shared between competitors and their buddies.
This was not just about events or medals. It was about encouragement, connection, and celebrating every moment together.
You could see it in every race, every cheer, every hug. A reminder that sometimes the biggest wins are not measured at the finish line.
#BoroBuilt
💥 Knock Out Competition for a Great Cause.
📆We could really use your help today through this Thursday!
Our National Honor Society is kicking off a class competition to support something truly meaningful… sending veterans on Honor Flights 🇺🇸
Last year, our students helped sponsor two veterans, and they are aiming to do it again with a goal of $1,600.
Here is how you can help:
✔ Donate to a specific class (just label your envelope and send the money in with your student)
✔ Or make a general donation
✔ Pennies and paper money add points, silver coins subtract
All donations go directly to the Greater St. Louis Honor Flight.
🏆 Bonus: The winning class earns a movie in the theater.
This is a great opportunity for our students and community to come together and give back to those who have served.
💬 Let’s show our support. Every donation makes a difference.
📆We could really use your help today through this Thursday!
Our National Honor Society is kicking off a class competition to support something truly meaningful… sending veterans on Honor Flights 🇺🇸
Last year, our students helped sponsor two veterans, and they are aiming to do it again with a goal of $1,600.
Here is how you can help:
✔ Donate to a specific class (just label your envelope and send the money in with your student)
✔ Or make a general donation
✔ Pennies and paper money add points, silver coins subtract
All donations go directly to the Greater St. Louis Honor Flight.
🏆 Bonus: The winning class earns a movie in the theater.
This is a great opportunity for our students and community to come together and give back to those who have served.
💬 Let’s show our support. Every donation makes a difference.
Making connections.
Putting in the work.
Showing up every single day.
Serving others and answering the call.
Leading with heart.
Congratulations to Ashley McNail and Justin Lawson on being named Teacher of the Year and Support Staff Person of the Year. Your impact makes a difference across Hillsboro R-3.
Ashley McNail is an English and Language Arts teacher at the Junior High School and Justin Lawson is an HVAC Technician in the Maintenance Department.
#BoroBuilt
If your student plans to attend Summer School, now is a great time to get ready.
Programs are available for students entering K–12, and registration will be completed online.
Before you sign up, here are three quick things to know:
✔️ Choose the correct grade-level form (the grade they will be during the 2026-2027 school year)
✔️ Complete a form for each student
✔️ Double-check your information before submitting
🔗 Link to more information and grade level sign-ups: https://www.hsdr3.org/article/2788293
SENIORS! Graduation cap decorating is happening next week after school with the art teachers! 🎓 Bring your own supplies or bring $5-10 to use theirs 🎨
🎉 Staff of the Month Spotlight 🎉
Congratulations to Mr. Brandon Holthausen for being named our March Staff Member of the Month!
This month’s theme was "Humorous." It sounds like Brandon delivers that and so much more 😄.
From “hilarious comebacks and stories” to being described as “the funniest guy around,” it’s clear he brings joy to those around him every single day.
But what stands out even more…
💙 His positivity
💙 His connection with students
💙 His genuine care for staff and kids
That combination is what makes a lasting impact.
👏 Brandon, thank you for keeping the office smiling, supporting students, and making Hillsboro a better place to be.
Congratulations to Mr. Brandon Holthausen for being named our March Staff Member of the Month!
This month’s theme was "Humorous." It sounds like Brandon delivers that and so much more 😄.
From “hilarious comebacks and stories” to being described as “the funniest guy around,” it’s clear he brings joy to those around him every single day.
But what stands out even more…
💙 His positivity
💙 His connection with students
💙 His genuine care for staff and kids
That combination is what makes a lasting impact.
👏 Brandon, thank you for keeping the office smiling, supporting students, and making Hillsboro a better place to be.
😀Check it out.
Our March Student of the Month winners as well as the Level Up Award Recipients. 👍#BoroBuilt
Our March Student of the Month winners as well as the Level Up Award Recipients. 👍#BoroBuilt
📣 Quick Reminder for Hillsboro R-3 Families
Have you completed your student’s Annual Online Registration yet?
We’re off to a great start, but we still need families to finish up before the deadline.
🗓️ Deadline: May 1
Each week, families who still need to complete registration will receive a reminder email through Infinite Campus. If that’s you, take a couple minutes today and get it checked off your list ✔️
💻 Log into Infinite Campus to complete your registration
This step is important to make sure your student is ready for the upcoming school year.
If you’ve already completed it: Thank you! 🙌
If not, now’s the perfect time.
Have you completed your student’s Annual Online Registration yet?
We’re off to a great start, but we still need families to finish up before the deadline.
🗓️ Deadline: May 1
Each week, families who still need to complete registration will receive a reminder email through Infinite Campus. If that’s you, take a couple minutes today and get it checked off your list ✔️
💻 Log into Infinite Campus to complete your registration
This step is important to make sure your student is ready for the upcoming school year.
If you’ve already completed it: Thank you! 🙌
If not, now’s the perfect time.
🍽️ Dish it out and let us know your thoughts.
Your feedback is the secret ingredient to making our school meals even better 👇
We want to hear from students AND families
What do you love? What could be better? What should we add?
📲 Take 1 minute to share your thoughts
✔️ Click the link
Link: https://qrflash.me/a/Q7G4r5
Your voice helps shape what’s on the menu every day. Let’s make it even better together!
Your feedback is the secret ingredient to making our school meals even better 👇
We want to hear from students AND families
What do you love? What could be better? What should we add?
📲 Take 1 minute to share your thoughts
✔️ Click the link
Link: https://qrflash.me/a/Q7G4r5
Your voice helps shape what’s on the menu every day. Let’s make it even better together!
❗️Prom is approaching quickly.
👉That means tickets are on sale now.
It'll happen Saturday, May 2nd.
Here's the details on how students can buy tickets:
🎟 Tickets: $70 each
Tickets will be sold April 7th–April 17th in Room 306 during A-Shift HawkTime.
🚫 No ticket sales on Wednesdays
🚫 No tickets sold after April 17th
💳 Important: Tickets must be purchased in person at school (credit, cash, or check payable to Hillsboro High School).
Credit card payments will NOT be accepted online.
👗 Juniors & Seniors only may purchase tickets.
Outside guests must complete required forms before tickets can be purchased.
📄 Prom Agreement and Guest Forms will be available outside Room 306.
📧 Questions? heitert_cyndi@hsdr3.org
👉That means tickets are on sale now.
It'll happen Saturday, May 2nd.
Here's the details on how students can buy tickets:
🎟 Tickets: $70 each
Tickets will be sold April 7th–April 17th in Room 306 during A-Shift HawkTime.
🚫 No ticket sales on Wednesdays
🚫 No tickets sold after April 17th
💳 Important: Tickets must be purchased in person at school (credit, cash, or check payable to Hillsboro High School).
Credit card payments will NOT be accepted online.
👗 Juniors & Seniors only may purchase tickets.
Outside guests must complete required forms before tickets can be purchased.
📄 Prom Agreement and Guest Forms will be available outside Room 306.
📧 Questions? heitert_cyndi@hsdr3.org
📅 Hillsboro families, there will be no school from Friday, April 3 through Monday, April 6. District buildings will be closed during that time.
Classes will resume on Tuesday, April 7.
We hope everyone enjoys the long weekend and time with family.
Sophomores at their Class Ring Ceremony this morning 💍
