Development News for Hillsboro, Oregon

Hillsboro School District Enhances Environmental Initiatives with New Equipment, Energy Efficiency, and Waste Reduction Programs

Maya, the district's resource conservation manager, presented an update on the district's environmental initiatives. Key highlights included the purchase of battery-powered groundskeeping equipment to reduce carbon emissions, replacing gas-powered alternatives. The district also focused on energy efficiency, with a chart illustrating building energy usage (EUI) and identifying buildings needing focus for improvement. Conservation efforts included establishing a district surplus funds warehouse to collect and redistribute usable items, diverting them from landfills, and conducting a cafeteria food waste audit to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The district has partnered with organizations like Energy Trust of Oregon to upgrade HVAC systems and install solar arrays, leading to significant energy cost savings and reduced environmental impact. These savings are reinvested into student learning and operational needs. The presentation also touched upon integrating sustainable practices into the curriculum, such as at Liberty High School's sustainable agriculture and design building, and exploring opportunities for student involvement in environmental projects.

Hillsboro School District Advances November 2026 Bond Proposal, Approves Election Call

The board took action on the November 2026 bond proposal, approving the capital construction bond proposal and adopting a resolution to call for the election. This allows staff to file the necessary paperwork to place the bond on the ballot. The district is developing extensive collateral materials, including a website and flyers, to inform the community about the bond's proposed projects. An interactive dashboard has been created to provide detailed, school-specific information on project timelines. The district aims to provide a high level of detail and transparency to ensure voters are well-informed. The process involves developing key messages, analyzing voter demographics, and engaging school-based administrators and staff to communicate with parent groups.

Hillsboro Schools Foundation Launches 'CEO' Initiative, Surpasses $7 Million in Lifetime Giving

The Hillsboro Schools Foundation presented their annual report, highlighting their mission to foster community engagement and secure resources for student opportunities. Their new multi-year initiative, 'CEO: Creating Engaging Opportunities,' aims to raise $240,000 annually for three years to fund after-school programs that enhance student engagement and attendance, and help meet the goal of connecting every student to an extracurricular activity. The foundation reported a record-breaking gala event and detailed various successful events and grants from the past year, including support for food pantries and innovative classroom projects. They announced that their total historical giving has surpassed $7 million, with projections to exceed $400,000 in the current fiscal year. The foundation's work is crucial in supplementing district funding and providing resources beyond the regular budget.

Superintendent's Contract Extended Through June 2029

The board approved the superintendent's contract, extending it from July 1st, 2026, through June 30th, 2029. The contract was moved for approval by Director Pantoa and seconded by Director Kim. This action ensures leadership continuity for the district.