What Should Hillsboro R-3 Schools Look Like in the Future? Watch Community Engagement Session #1

Hillsboro R-3 School District community engagement session on future school facilities, held July 22, 2026. The district’s planning team, including Hollis + Miller and Bond Architects, presented preliminary renovation and master-plan concepts after facility assessments. The district had hired the architecture team following an interview process; no contract amount or further procurement details were provided. Proposed needs include safety and accessibility upgrades, replacement of aging mechanical and electrical systems, restroom and cafeteria renovations, improved athletic facilities, a secure high-school entry, a possible storm-shelter addition, performance space, parking and road connections, and upgrades at the historic barn. These were early concepts, not approved projects or contract awards.

The discussion was part of a roughly 12-week planning process and informed by community survey responses and public feedback. A potential school levy increase could fund future improvements, but no levy amount, ballot language, spending allocation, motion, or vote was reported. Participants emphasized preserving the farm and planning campus connections and construction with future growth in mind. The school board and district leadership remain decision makers; the team expects to refine priorities and present a final plan around September or October, with a further community meeting tentatively noted for August 27.