Hillsboro R-3 Superintendent Jon Isaacson plans to retire at the end of the 2026-2027 school year.
Isaacson was named superintendent in 2018. Previously, he had been assistant superintendent of human resources for the district. Before Isaacson became assistant superintendent in 2008, he was an assistant principal at Hillsboro Junior High for six years. Prior to that, he taught at the Fox C-6 School District from 1998-2008.
The Hillsboro Board of Education voted unanimously during a Nov. 20 closed meeting to approve Isaacson’s retirement, which takes effect June 30, 2027.
His annual salary for this school year is $220,028.
Isaacson, 50, said he told the board in February that he was planning to retire.
“I felt it was important to provide the board with sufficient time to identify the right person to lead the district and ensure a smooth and successful transition,” he said.
Board of Education President John Linhorst remembers his time working with Isaacson fondly.
“We advanced important initiatives, including the continued growth of the district’s agriculture program and the launch of the early childhood program, reflecting a commitment to educating the whole student and providing pathways for all learners. Through intentional financial stewardship under Dr. Isaacson’s leadership, the district paid down debt years ahead of schedule, saving the community and taxpayers tens of thousands of dollars in interest while also making meaningful improvements to teacher compensation.”
Isaacson said one of his proudest achievements is the district’s investments in students and facilities while increasing pay for teachers and classified staff.
During his tenure, the district paid off nearly all its outstanding general obligation bond debt and lowered the overall tax rate to $3.5296 per $100 assessed valuation, the lowest in Jefferson County, according to district budget documents.
“I’m grateful for the leadership team I’ve worked alongside – Melissa Hildebrand, who has served with me since 2018 and was co-superintendent with me during the 2018-2019 school year, as well as Dr. Clay LaRue, and Matt Whitehead,” Isaacson said. “Each has played an important role in our progress. I have also been fortunate to work with an outstanding Board of Education whose leadership and support have helped move our district forward.”
Isaacson earned a bachelor’s degree in history education from Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, Ill., a master’s degree in education administration from Southwest Baptist University in Bolivar, a specialist degree in education administration and a doctorate in educational leadership from Missouri Baptist University.
He and his wife, Ashley, live in Hillsboro and have two adult sons.
“I still have about 18 months of work ahead of me, and I’m fully committed to finishing strong. I imagine I’ll take some time to slow down and recharge, and then I’m sure I’ll find something to stay busy,” he said. “Change can be challenging, and after nine years in this role, I want to make sure the district’s momentum continues. I also live in this community and plan to remain here, so I’m personally invested in Hillsboro’s continued success even after I step away from the superintendent role.”
Linhorst said the board has not yet begun an active search to find the next superintendent but expects a successor would begin July 2027. He said a timeline for hiring a successor has not been finalized.