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
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.
Hillsboro R-3 Community To Wear Green in Honor of National Liver Awareness Month and Early Childhood Center Student
HILLSBORO, Mo. — October is National Liver Awareness Month, and the Hillsboro R-3 School District is honoring one of its youngest students, Nola Faye Brown, who has shown extraordinary courage in the face of a rare and life-threatening disease.
Nola was diagnosed at just two months old with Biliary Atresia, a condition in which bile ducts in the liver are blocked or damaged, preventing the proper flow of bile. This condition can cause cirrhosis and eventual liver failure. At the time of her diagnosis, Nola had already suffered 54 percent permanent liver damage and was placed on a transplant list while undergoing frequent treatments and specialist visits.
In October 2022, at only one year old, Nola was hospitalized after her mother noticed a yellow discoloration to her skin. Physicians at that time warned that she would not live beyond the age of 2.
Now three years old, Nola has far surpassed those expectations. She has been released from near-daily medical visits to only requiring annual appointments, defying all odds and inspiring everyone around her.
To celebrate Nola’s strength and perseverance, the Hillsboro R-3 School District is inviting students, staff, families and community members to wear green on Friday, Oct. 6 in recognition of National Liver Awareness Month and in honor of Nola’s journey.
“Nola is a true picture of perseverance and strength,” said district officials. “We are so proud of her and invite everyone to join us in celebrating her resilience.”
About Hillsboro R-3 School District
The Hillsboro R-3 School District serves the families of Hillsboro, Mo., and is known as a Destination School District.
HILLSBORO, Mo. — October is National Liver Awareness Month, and the Hillsboro R-3 School District is honoring one of its youngest students, Nola Faye Brown, who has shown extraordinary courage in the face of a rare and life-threatening disease.
Nola was diagnosed at just two months old with Biliary Atresia, a condition in which bile ducts in the liver are blocked or damaged, preventing the proper flow of bile. This condition can cause cirrhosis and eventual liver failure. At the time of her diagnosis, Nola had already suffered 54 percent permanent liver damage and was placed on a transplant list while undergoing frequent treatments and specialist visits.
In October 2022, at only one year old, Nola was hospitalized after her mother noticed a yellow discoloration to her skin. Physicians at that time warned that she would not live beyond the age of 2.
Now three years old, Nola has far surpassed those expectations. She has been released from near-daily medical visits to only requiring annual appointments, defying all odds and inspiring everyone around her.
To celebrate Nola’s strength and perseverance, the Hillsboro R-3 School District is inviting students, staff, families and community members to wear green on Friday, Oct. 6 in recognition of National Liver Awareness Month and in honor of Nola’s journey.
“Nola is a true picture of perseverance and strength,” said district officials. “We are so proud of her and invite everyone to join us in celebrating her resilience.”
About Hillsboro R-3 School District
The Hillsboro R-3 School District serves the families of Hillsboro, Mo., and is known as a Destination School District.
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
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
Hillsboro R-3 School District Invites Community to Wear Orange and Blue to Support Hillsboro Student
HILLSBORO, Mo.-- The Hillsboro R-3 School District is asking the community to wear orange and blue on Monday, Sept. 15, to support Summer Beranek, a 4-year-old student at the district’s Early Childhood Center who is living with Wiedemann-Steiner Syndrome (WSS), a rare genetic condition that affects 1 in 40,000 children worldwide.
Summer has endured six major surgeries, including open-heart surgery at just 3 months old, and has already spent 164 days in Children’s Hospital. She was also the youngest child ever diagnosed with WSS at just 10 days old.
Fun Facts About Summer:
She is the youngest child ever diagnosed with WSS, at only 10 days old.
She is one of just two children worldwide with WSS who was born with micrognathia (a recessed jaw and cleft palate), a 1 in 4 million chance.
She has undergone six major surgeries, including heart surgery, and has become a proud “heart warrior.”
About Wiedemann-Steiner Syndrome (WSS):
WSS is a rare genetic disorder caused by mutations in the MLL (also known as KMT2A) gene on chromosome 11. Clinically described in 1989 and genetically identified in 2012, WSS can lead to global developmental delays, feeding and digestion complexities, sleep challenges, unusual facial features, short stature, and other medical concerns. The condition is autosomal dominant, meaning only one abnormal copy of the gene is needed for a child to be affected.
The Hillsboro R-3 School District encourages parents, students, and community members to wear orange and blue on Sept. 15 as a visible sign of support for Summer and to help raise awareness about this rare syndrome.
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HILLSBORO, Mo.-- The Hillsboro R-3 School District is asking the community to wear orange and blue on Monday, Sept. 15, to support Summer Beranek, a 4-year-old student at the district’s Early Childhood Center who is living with Wiedemann-Steiner Syndrome (WSS), a rare genetic condition that affects 1 in 40,000 children worldwide.
Summer has endured six major surgeries, including open-heart surgery at just 3 months old, and has already spent 164 days in Children’s Hospital. She was also the youngest child ever diagnosed with WSS at just 10 days old.
Fun Facts About Summer:
She is the youngest child ever diagnosed with WSS, at only 10 days old.
She is one of just two children worldwide with WSS who was born with micrognathia (a recessed jaw and cleft palate), a 1 in 4 million chance.
She has undergone six major surgeries, including heart surgery, and has become a proud “heart warrior.”
About Wiedemann-Steiner Syndrome (WSS):
WSS is a rare genetic disorder caused by mutations in the MLL (also known as KMT2A) gene on chromosome 11. Clinically described in 1989 and genetically identified in 2012, WSS can lead to global developmental delays, feeding and digestion complexities, sleep challenges, unusual facial features, short stature, and other medical concerns. The condition is autosomal dominant, meaning only one abnormal copy of the gene is needed for a child to be affected.
The Hillsboro R-3 School District encourages parents, students, and community members to wear orange and blue on Sept. 15 as a visible sign of support for Summer and to help raise awareness about this rare syndrome.
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📢 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
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.
Students at Hillsboro Primary School are gaining confidence and joy in the classroom with the help of three certified therapy dogs. Marnie, a 1-year-old Chihuahua; Sugar, a 5-year-old Goldendoodle; and Oakley, a 4-year-old Labradoodle, each completed more than 20 weeks of training and passed the Canine Good Citizen test to prepare for their role in supporting students.
The dogs are helping students in literacy, music and physical education. Reading aloud to a therapy dog gives children a judgment-free listener that builds fluency and self-esteem. In music class, the dogs provide a calm and nonjudgmental audience, helping students overcome stage fright and experiment with sound and creativity. During physical education, their playful presence encourages reluctant students to join activities like running, playing fetch or guiding a dog through an obstacle course.
“All dogs are therapy dogs. We are fortunate enough to have three on hand daily to support our littles through their big emotions,” said Shannon Murray, Hillsboro Primary School principal.
With their gentle personalities and wagging tails, Marnie, Sugar and Oakley are creating a supportive school culture where students feel more confident, engaged and ready to learn.
The dogs are helping students in literacy, music and physical education. Reading aloud to a therapy dog gives children a judgment-free listener that builds fluency and self-esteem. In music class, the dogs provide a calm and nonjudgmental audience, helping students overcome stage fright and experiment with sound and creativity. During physical education, their playful presence encourages reluctant students to join activities like running, playing fetch or guiding a dog through an obstacle course.
“All dogs are therapy dogs. We are fortunate enough to have three on hand daily to support our littles through their big emotions,” said Shannon Murray, Hillsboro Primary School principal.
With their gentle personalities and wagging tails, Marnie, Sugar and Oakley are creating a supportive school culture where students feel more confident, engaged and ready to learn.
Join us for Open House!
Kindergarten & First Grade Open House is August 13th 5:00-7:00 pm & Early Childhood Open House is August 14th 5:00-7:00 pm.
🚨 We're Hiring! 🚨
Position: District Operations Secretary
Department: Transportation and Buildings & Grounds
Schedule: 12-month position
Salary Range: $18.00 – $28.50/hour (Starting pay based on experience and education)
Join our dedicated Operations team and play a vital role in supporting Transportation and Buildings & Grounds! We're looking for an organized, motivated individual ready to make an impact year-round.
✅ Competitive pay
✅ Full-year employment
✅ Opportunity to grow in a supportive environment
Apply today and be part of a team that keeps everything running smoothly!
📋 Learn more and apply here: https://www.applitrack.com/hsdr3/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=Secretarial%2fClerical
#JobOpening #NowHiring #AdministrativeSupport #OperationsTeam #JoinOurTeam
District Teacher and Support Staff of the Year Recipients
We are thrilled to recognize two exceptional members of our Junior High team for their outstanding contributions and dedication to our students and school district.
Congratulations to Becky Solomon, who has been named Teacher of the Year! Mrs. Solomon's passion for kids, commitment to the district, and teaching practices make her a true leader in the classroom. Her positive energy and relentless pursuit of excellence inspire both her coworkers and her students each day.
Congratulations to Cullie Wilkins, who has been honored as our Support Staff Member of the Year! Mr. Wilkins has served the district for over 30 years and will be retiring this summer. His dependability, can-do attitude, and kind spirit make a daily difference in the lives of both students and staff.
Please join us in celebrating these incredible individuals for all they do!
Another opportunity if you need assistance completing your Annual Online Registration (AOR), we will have staff available at the Primary building this Saturday, April 26 from 9 AM to 3 PM.
Please make sure to bring your proof of residency, which has to be within 30 days. **electric bill is preferred**
We are here to help! 💙 AOR is due May 2
Teacher Appreciation Week is May 5-9. 🍎 We would love to show our teachers some love! Please take a minute to send one or many shoutouts to any teachers in the district. 💙 They will receive their shoutouts during Teacher Appreciation Week. The form will close on May 2. 🙂 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfwzHaArXK0mI6qbQ3EvQ-8HkMILIPlF89yyTzAo7XGu6n4WA/viewform?usp=sharing
HHS Sprint Spring Apparel - Store Closes May 14
#HawkPrideSwag 💙 #HawkStrong 💪
https://bsnteamsports.com/shop/eUJYKtsLDq?utm_source=flyer&utm_medium=pdf&utm_campaign=store_shop&utm_content=store_link&fbclid=IwY2xjawJ0iCBleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETExTVBFVWw0TEVobU1WekZTAR6MXPWOgZIL-1TYFTwje26IpimLcos4Ow_53-dPYTvdZn-_A2pCYjXekEazDQ_aem_quOFj9c7fhwm1Ig-8gjgkQ
We're Hiring: Kindergarten Teacher 🍎
Join our team and help shape young minds for a brighter future!
📝 Position: Certified Kindergarten Teacher
📅 Contract: 2025–2026 School Year (per district calendar)
💲 Salary Range: $44,000–$77,800
📈 Career Ladder Eligible
✅ Full Benefits Package – Medical, Dental, & Life Insurance
🎓 Requirement: Missouri State Teacher Certification
As a Kindergarten Teacher at Hillsboro R-3, you'll deliver engaging instruction, support individual learning needs, and help students reach grade-level expectations set by the Missouri Department of Education and district curriculum.
🌟 Make a lasting impact where Little Hawks Learn to Fly!
📩 Apply now to join a supportive, passionate educational community.
https://www.applitrack.com/hsdr3/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=Elementary+School+Teaching
📣 We're Hiring! Join our team as a Paraprofessional and make a difference every day! 🌟
💼 Position Title: Paraprofessional
💲 Pay Range: $16.25–$20.45/hr (based on education and experience)
🎓 Requirements: Minimum of 60+ college credit hours
✅ Full Benefits Package: Includes health, vision, dental, and life insurance
If you're passionate about supporting students and creating a positive impact in the classroom, we want to hear from you!
📩 Apply today and be part of something meaningful.
https://www.applitrack.com/hsdr3/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=Support+Staff
🚌 NOW HIRING: SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS 🚌
Make a difference every day – drive the future!
📍 Position: Bus Driver
💲 Salary: $18.50–$27.25/hr (based on experience & education)
⏰ Hours: AM & PM routes + assigned trips as needed
🩺 Benefits: Full package including Health, Life, Dental, Vision & PTO, Retirement
✅ Safe driving record required
✅ CDL preferred – training available!
✅ Great for retirees, parents, or anyone who loves helping kids succeed!
Join our team and help students get to school safely and on time.
Apply today and steer your career in the right direction!
https://www.applitrack.com/hsdr3/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=Transportation+Department
Youth Soccer Camp
⚽️ May 27-29 ⚽️
$40 - Boys & Girls
⚽️ Grades 3-8 ⚽️
Hillsboro Turf Field
Register: https://forms.gle/Ns2KcfZvgyazvxH87
Questions? Contact Sam Nansel
nansel_sam@hsdr3.org
Family Science Night- April 10, 2025
Join the High School Science Department for an evening of family fun with Physics!
At this event you will decorate and build a kite, make a rubber band car, and more!
The cost to attend is $5.
You get to take home what you make!
The event will take place from 3:00 -7:00 PM. You may arrive at any time. Stations will be set up for you to make various projects. The event will take place in room 224 in the High School. There will be signs directing you to this classroom.
Please RSVP by Tuesday, April 8th.
If you have any questions reach out to Aimee Fydyuk at fydyuk_aimee@hsdr3.org.
