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 R-III School District Communications
January 9, 2026
Hillsboro R-3 School District Superintendent Dr. Jon Isaacson has notified the Board of Education of his intention to retire at the conclusion of the 2026–2027 school year, as he prepares to conclude a tenure marked by district growth, financial stability, and major facility and program improvements.
Dr. Isaacson submitted a letter to the Board stating his intent to retire effective June 30, 2027.
The early notice ensures transparency and allows the Board ample time to establish a timeline and process for hiring the district’s next superintendent. In his letter, Dr. Isaacson reflected on his time in Hillsboro and highlighted the district’s progress during his leadership. Since becoming Superintendent, he has helped guide significant improvements, including the development of the district’s Comprehensive School Improvement Plan (CSIP), expansion of academic opportunities, strengthened communication practices, and long-term strategic work across multiple departments. Under his leadership, the district also navigated the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic while continuing to move the district forward academically and operationally.
Significant facility and program improvements completed during Dr. Isaacson’s tenure include property acquisitions, major construction and renovation projects, districtwide safety enhancements, and expanded learning spaces. These projects include the purchase of the Bridle Ridge Farm property, the new Administration Building, the new Learning Center Building, and the development of the district’s new Early Childhood Center, along with ongoing upgrades designed to support students and staff across the district.
In addition to these improvements, Dr. Isaacson noted that one of his proudest accomplishments is that the district has made major investments in students and facilities while also increasing pay for teachers and classified staff. During his tenure, the district has paid off nearly all outstanding General Obligation Bond debt and lowered the overall tax rate to the lowest in Jefferson County, demonstrating a strong commitment to both educational excellence and responsible financial stewardship.
Dr. Isaacson expressed deep appreciation for the Board, staff, students, families, and community members who have contributed to the district’s success. He emphasized that the progress made during his tenure has been possible because of shared dedication, collaboration, and the exceptional people he has had the privilege to work alongside.
The Hillsboro R-3 Board of Education will discuss and make a determination on the transition process & anticipated timelines for the selection of the next Superintendent at January's board meeting.
Additional information will be shared publicly once those details are finalized.
Dr. Isaacson will continue to serve as Superintendent until the end of June 2027.

Here is a link to apply for job openings with the Hillsboro R-3 School District: https://www.applitrack.com/hsdr3/onlineapp/
Bus Drivers Qualifications & Pay Rate:
The Hillsboro R-3 School District is seeking full-time school bus drivers for the 2025–2026 school year. Bus drivers play a vital role in safely transporting students to and from school, field trips, and district activities in a timely and professional manner. This position includes morning and afternoon routes, along with assigned trips as needed. Drivers are responsible for maintaining a safe, clean, and orderly vehicle; following established routes and schedules; enforcing student safety rules; and communicating effectively with students, families, school staff, and transportation supervisors. Full paid training is provided, including assistance with obtaining a CDL if necessary.
Bus drivers earn $19.75–$28.50 per hour based on experience and education and receive a full benefits package, including health, dental, vision, life insurance, and paid time off. Qualified candidates must hold or be able to obtain a valid Class B CDL with passenger and school bus endorsements, pass required physicals, and meet all safety and training requirements. This position is open until filled and offers a rewarding opportunity to support students and serve the Hillsboro community while enjoying consistent hours and strong district support.
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Custodian Qualifications & Pay Rate:
The Hillsboro R-3 School District is seeking custodians for the 2025–2026 school year to support school buildings across the district. Custodians play a critical role in providing students and staff with a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for learning. This full-time, 12-month position is scheduled for evening shifts and includes responsibility for cleaning, disinfecting, and maintaining school facilities, performing routine maintenance tasks, and ensuring buildings are secure and operational. Custodians work closely with building principals and the Director of Buildings and Grounds to support daily operations, special events, and seasonal needs.
Custodians earn $15.50–$22.75 per hour based on experience and receive a full benefits package that includes accrued leave, vacation time, retirement, and health-related benefits. Qualified candidates should have a high school diploma or GED or equivalent experience, demonstrate dependability and strong attention to safety, and be able to perform physical tasks associated with custodial and maintenance work. This position is open until filled and offers a stable schedule, competitive compensation, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the Hillsboro school community.

1. We hope you thoroughly enjoy your time with family and friends during the holiday season. It's also a great way to unwind, rest and catch up on your favorite TV shows.
2. Monday, January 5th is the first day class resumes.
3. Reset routines soon. Re-establish bedtime/wake-up, lay out clothes, pack backpacks and pick a simple breakfast. Consistency beats motivation.
4. Watch for school buses and students at bus stops. Patience matters most. Treat flashing yellow as a warning to prepare to stop. Never pass a bus with red lights/stop arm out. Watch for children darting between cars.

As we wrap up the first semester of the 2025-2026 school year, we would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Here is the link to the December Newsletter in case you missed it a district-wide email: https://hsdr3.edurooms.com/engage/hillsboro-r-3-school-district/newsletters/december-2025-district-newsletter
Inside, you'll find important information, key January dates to add to your calendar, and a special video highlighting Christmas at the Farm. Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to an exciting second semester.

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 Driver applicants use this link: https://www.applitrack.com/hsdr3/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=Transportation+Department
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.
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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.
Custodial applicants can use this link: https://www.applitrack.com/hsdr3/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=Maintenance%2fCustodial
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.”

*Store Closes on January 7, 2026.
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.
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 Wednesday, January 7th.

We're hiring School Bus Drivers!
Link to apply: https://www.applitrack.com/hsdr3/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=Transportation+Department
Salary: $19.75-$28.50/hr. depending on experience and education
Benefits: Full Benefit Package including Health, Life, Dental, Vision & PTO Leave Time
Hours: AM and PM Routes and assigned trips as necessary.


It's a great chance for all Hillsboro 5th and 6th graders to mingle and bond. There will be Saucy's Pizza slices, soft drinks, dodgeball, facepainting, Survivor Relay Races, Photobooths, and Holiday games to be played!
It all gets underway at 3:30pm on Friday, December 5th until 6pm.


Find them at this website: https://hillsborointermediate.ludus.com/

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.

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.”




Hawks for Heroes bracelets go on sale tomorrow! Help show your support to our veteran heroes! #HawksForHeroes #NeverForget

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.

In honor of Veterans Day, we take time to reflect, remember, and thank all who have served our country.
#HawkPride #ThankYouVeterans

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

