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
High-quality dental care is coming to the the Hillsboro School Disrict in October thanks to a partnership with Compass Health Network. Schedule your appointments now because the deadline will come quickly on October 6th. The dental cleanings, sealants and treatment will be done at school. They are safe, convenient and comfortable for all children.
Click HERE: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/1e295a6a1c724a5d89ca933a0d64c348?Region=Jefferson&Region2=Jefferson&Region3=Jefferson&Region4=Jefferson&Region5=Jefferson&fbclid=IwY2xjawNHkGxleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFianhGTThpQ2tLZndxUHVnAR4DN8B8h5kxBbtn7zewmMe8cGFZVQCaRaWS9r5RcqIrEA2izmCZF1uJO0Np0w_aem_ZwNUorvCQzQuX3gnyRbzzQ
All Medicaid plans are accepted. Most private insurance will be accepted and there will also be a sliding scale available so students can get treated by dentists.
The upcoming visit happens October 21st-October 31st.
Register by October 6th.
Questions? Call 636-267-1501
Click HERE: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/1e295a6a1c724a5d89ca933a0d64c348?Region=Jefferson&Region2=Jefferson&Region3=Jefferson&Region4=Jefferson&Region5=Jefferson&fbclid=IwY2xjawNHkGxleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFianhGTThpQ2tLZndxUHVnAR4DN8B8h5kxBbtn7zewmMe8cGFZVQCaRaWS9r5RcqIrEA2izmCZF1uJO0Np0w_aem_ZwNUorvCQzQuX3gnyRbzzQ
All Medicaid plans are accepted. Most private insurance will be accepted and there will also be a sliding scale available so students can get treated by dentists.
The upcoming visit happens October 21st-October 31st.
Register by October 6th.
Questions? Call 636-267-1501
Save the Date!
From 11th grade labs to Intermediate classrooms — our Scientific Trio of teachers brought the magic of H₂O to life!
Our Art Club students joined millions worldwide in celebrating International Dot Day — a movement that inspires everyone to “make their mark”! 🎨🖌️
Inspired by Peter H. Reynolds’ The Dot, students turned a simple dot into bold, creative, and imaginative artwork that showed off their unique voices and talents.
We’re so proud of our student artists — keep making your mark, Art Club!
#InternationalDotDay #ArtClub #MakeYourMark #IntermediateStrong
Inspired by Peter H. Reynolds’ The Dot, students turned a simple dot into bold, creative, and imaginative artwork that showed off their unique voices and talents.
We’re so proud of our student artists — keep making your mark, Art Club!
#InternationalDotDay #ArtClub #MakeYourMark #IntermediateStrong
Intermediate S/O to our talented 6th grade STEAM students!
We're proud to recognize Aiylah and Ellen, whose incredible graphic design created using Canva was selected to celebrate IT Appreciation Day!
Their work is now featured on our social media pages and school marquee — a well-deserved spotlight for their creativity and effort!
#IntermediateStrong #STEAM #ITAppreciationDay
We're proud to recognize Aiylah and Ellen, whose incredible graphic design created using Canva was selected to celebrate IT Appreciation Day!
Their work is now featured on our social media pages and school marquee — a well-deserved spotlight for their creativity and effort!
#IntermediateStrong #STEAM #ITAppreciationDay
The Hillsboro R-3 School District is once again, 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. You will see in the picture provides in this post, 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 will start at 2pm. Please note that there will not be any candy thrown from any vehicles. NOTE: 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.
If you have questions about the parade route or would like to take part as a private driver, please email Christy Schacht - schacht_christy@hsdr3.org
Loughridge/Oilar/Welker designed and built wind turbines to test in class. Groups then went back and redesigned for the final test! #HandsOnLearning #Teamwork #IntermediateStrong
♟️♟️♟️♟️♟️♟️♟️♟️♟️♟️♟️♟️♟️♟️♟️♟️♟️
Friday was our first club meeting. Checking & Castling & Capturing, OH MY!
These 5th & 6th grade Grandmasters love the chance to play other kiddos who are also Grandmasters!
Friday was our first club meeting. Checking & Castling & Capturing, OH MY!
These 5th & 6th grade Grandmasters love the chance to play other kiddos who are also Grandmasters!
Constructing wind turbines with Ms. Horner! #GreatDayToLearn #STEAM
Construction is underway for our new Intermediate playground! Staff and students are so excited!
📢 Important Transportation Update for Families
Parents,
Beginning tomorrow, September 9, our Transportation Department will roll out an upgrade to our bus routing system. 🚌 Each student will receive a school ID card with a lanyard or backpack tag on Tuesday, September 9th during the PM routes.
These IDs are equipped with RFID technology to scan when students board and exit the bus. We will also provide a small instruction handout with the student ID. We ask that all bus riders use these ID cards to scan on and off the buses. 📲 There is an attachment with further details and instructions for My Ride K-12.
Our drivers and Transportation Department have undergone extensive training to prepare for this new system. ✅ While we hope for a smooth start, we want to be transparent that this is a new process and it may take some time to work out all the details. We kindly ask for your patience as we transition. 🙏
🚫 Lastly, this school year our district has seen an increase in requests for students to ride a bus to a friend’s house instead of their assigned pick-up and drop-off. As a district, we will continue our current practice of not allowing bus changes for after-school visits or alternate drop-off requests.
This practice is in place to ensure:
📢 Clear communication with drivers
🪑 Accurate seating and capacity on buses
🛡️ Safe, organized, and consistent transportation for all students
We kindly ask for your understanding and support as we uphold this procedure. 💙💛
Thank you for your partnership in supporting our drivers and Transportation Department. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions.
Dr. Clay LaRue
Assistant Superintendent – District Operations
Hillsboro R-3 School District – hsdr3.org
9661 Old Hwy 21 | Hillsboro, MO 63050
📞 (636) 789-0062 ext. 6011 | 📠 (636) 789-0080
Parents,
Beginning tomorrow, September 9, our Transportation Department will roll out an upgrade to our bus routing system. 🚌 Each student will receive a school ID card with a lanyard or backpack tag on Tuesday, September 9th during the PM routes.
These IDs are equipped with RFID technology to scan when students board and exit the bus. We will also provide a small instruction handout with the student ID. We ask that all bus riders use these ID cards to scan on and off the buses. 📲 There is an attachment with further details and instructions for My Ride K-12.
Our drivers and Transportation Department have undergone extensive training to prepare for this new system. ✅ While we hope for a smooth start, we want to be transparent that this is a new process and it may take some time to work out all the details. We kindly ask for your patience as we transition. 🙏
🚫 Lastly, this school year our district has seen an increase in requests for students to ride a bus to a friend’s house instead of their assigned pick-up and drop-off. As a district, we will continue our current practice of not allowing bus changes for after-school visits or alternate drop-off requests.
This practice is in place to ensure:
📢 Clear communication with drivers
🪑 Accurate seating and capacity on buses
🛡️ Safe, organized, and consistent transportation for all students
We kindly ask for your understanding and support as we uphold this procedure. 💙💛
Thank you for your partnership in supporting our drivers and Transportation Department. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions.
Dr. Clay LaRue
Assistant Superintendent – District Operations
Hillsboro R-3 School District – hsdr3.org
9661 Old Hwy 21 | Hillsboro, MO 63050
📞 (636) 789-0062 ext. 6011 | 📠 (636) 789-0080
Picture Day is TOMORROW!
Now is the time to purchase tickets for the annual "Ties and Tiaras" dance that takes place on October 11th. It's a semi-formal dance for K-6th Grade girls and their dads. Any other adult can also attend if needed. The "Ties and Tiaras" event happens from 7:00 to 9:00 at Hillsboro High School. Tickets are $20 per househould. You can purchase tickets in Infinite Campus under the "School Store" Tab.
Order shirts for $15 by September 29th to be picked up at the dance. Shirts are ONLY AVAILABLE through pre-order and will not be for sale at the dance. Scan the QR Code with your phone's camera to order shirts. Photos at the dance will be available for $5.
Order shirts for $15 by September 29th to be picked up at the dance. Shirts are ONLY AVAILABLE through pre-order and will not be for sale at the dance. Scan the QR Code with your phone's camera to order shirts. Photos at the dance will be available for $5.
Please Help!
Picture day is coming!
