As fall settles over Chariton County, the area schools have been buzzing with a wide variety of activities that highlight the heart of small-town education. Students, staff, and families from the local districts are embracing a mix of academics, athletics, and community traditions, showing that learning and fun go hand in hand. This past week, events in Thunder country—which brings together Keytesville, Brunswick, and Northwestern schools—as well as Salisbury R-IV, have offered a perfect snapshot of the energy, pride, and camaraderie in the region.
Thunder Country Unites for Homecoming 2025
Students from Keytesville, Brunswick, and Northwestern came together to celebrate Homecoming Week as the Thunder. The festivities spanned the entire week and included themed dress-up days, pep rallies, and a Friday night tailgate hosted by the Grands Gridiron Gang. Fans sporting Thunder gear enjoyed free admission, face painting, games, giveaways, and a spirited cheerleading performance, emphasizing community involvement in every aspect of the event.
The 2025 Thunder Homecoming Royalty were crowned in a joint ceremony representing each school:
Brunswick: King Beau Linneman and Queen Joslynn Brown
Keytesville: King Mason Meagher and Queen Ally Reische
Northwestern: King Asa Elliott and Queen Gracie Buck
Spirit Week activities — ranging from “Blizzard Blast Monday” to “Thunder Rolls Friday” — brought fun and school pride to every classroom. The Keytesville campus hosted the annual pep rally, complete with the American Legion Swan Lake Memorial Post presenting the Color Guard, creating a memorable kickoff to the weekend of festivities.
Brunswick: Grandparents’ Day and Book Fair Bring Families In
At Brunswick R-II, students and families celebrated Grandparents’ Day 2025. Classrooms were filled with laughter and excitement as grandparents participated in assemblies, games, and performances. Attendees praised the staff for organizing a memorable experience, calling it one of the best celebrations yet.
The Scholastic Book Fair also drew families into the school library for Parent Night, emphasizing the importance of reading and community engagement. With both in-person and online options available, the event encouraged students to explore books and foster a lifelong love of learning.
Keytesville: Students Recognized for Character and Achievement
At Keytesville Elementary, the school recognized its September ROARing Tigers — students who demonstrated the qualities of Respect, Optimism, Accountability, and Responsibility. Awarded certificates and small treats, these students serve as role models for their peers, highlighting the importance of character education alongside academics.
Meanwhile, seniors at Keytesville were reminded to submit photos for the upcoming yearbook and graduation slideshow, ensuring the Class of 2025 is celebrated in style. The school continues to balance academic rigor with opportunities for creativity and recognition.
Northwestern: Academic Excellence and Athletic Recognition
At Northwestern R-I, students and athletes received recognition for excellence both on and off the field. Track and Field athletes who met high academic standards were honored with Academic All-State awards from the Missouri Track and Cross Country Coaches Association. Recipients included Case Reckamp, Gracie Young, Kypton Batye, Emmitt Smith, Madi Ostermann, Elijah Fry, Jaden Mauzey, and Cooper Clark, exemplifying the balance between competitive athletics and scholastic achievement.
The FFA Trap Team wrapped up its season with a strong showing at the Northeast District Trapshoot. Top scores were earned by Noah Mauzey, Hudson Harms, Asa Elliott, Case Reckamp, and Brody Mauzey. Their success reflects both individual skill and community support throughout the season.
Thunder Football Keeps Momentum
The Thunder Football team has continued to impress, with players like Griffin Cramer and Case Reckamp climbing the conference leaderboards for sacks and tackles for loss. The team’s success has been fueled by both skill and community support, with families contributing to pregame meals and cheering on the sidelines.
Fans who cannot attend in person can still watch games via the Keytesville High School Hudl live stream, keeping the community connected no matter where they are. The combination of athletic achievement and strong local support demonstrates the spirit and pride of Thunder Country.
Salisbury Panthers: Wins and Inspiration Across Campus
Just a few miles away, Salisbury R-IV enjoyed a week full of both athletic victories and inspiring educational experiences. The Panthers football team claimed a win over Marceline on October 3, while the Lady Panthers softball teams achieved a 5th-place finish at the South Callaway Tournament and competed successfully in the LCC Junior High Tournament.
Classroom innovation was on display as College Algebra students took lessons outdoors, combining fresh air with learning. Seniors toured State Technical College in Linn, gaining firsthand exposure to college-level classrooms and labs. In addition, guest speaker B. Farris visited Salisbury Elementary, inspiring students with a message of possibility: “I can be anything, I want to be, I do believe!”
Students also enjoyed time on the school’s new turf playground, part of the district’s ongoing investment in student wellness and play. Looking ahead, Salisbury is preparing for its “90’s Throwback” Homecoming on October 16, featuring a parade, early dismissal, and a matchup against Louisiana, promising another day of excitement and community engagement.
Across Thunder Country and Salisbury, this past week has been a celebration of school spirit, academic achievement, and the enduring bond between students, families, and educators. With Homecoming festivities, academic recognitions, and inspiring community events, the heart of Chariton County’s schools continues to shine.
