This past week was packed with excitement across area schools as students, athletes, and educators celebrated the spirit of fall with competitions, senior recognitions, and community events. From the Thunder’s Senior Night and district softball matchups to classroom achievements and STEM challenges, schools throughout the region showcased hard work, teamwork, and hometown pride.
Thunder Football and Cheer Honor Seniors
The cooperative Thunder Football and Thunder Cheerleading programs — representing students from Brunswick R-II, Keytesville R-III, and Northwestern R-I school districts — celebrated their seniors last Friday night under the home lights.
Seniors Rebecca Munden, Beau Linneman, Hannah Keiser, Gracie Buck, and Joslynn Brown were recognized on the field with their families during halftime. Each student was honored for their leadership, dedication, and commitment throughout their athletic careers.
The evening was full of energy, with the Thunder Varsity Cheer Squad delivering an impressive halftime performance that brought the crowd to its feet. The squad reworked its routine earlier in the week, and their effort showed with sharp moves, strong spirit, and plenty of “Thunder pride.”
“This group of seniors has led with heart and positivity all season,” coaches shared. “They’ve left a lasting mark on our program.”
Lady Thunder Take the Field in District Softball Play
Softball fans filled the stands at the Brunswick Baseball Field this week for the start of district play. The Lady Thunder faced off in evening competition beginning at 6:30 p.m. with a strong show of hometown support.
Spectators entered through the west gate by the flagpoles, and organizers noted that the north drive was closed during the event. Admission was $6 for all fans, with proceeds helping support future athletic programs.
Community members were encouraged to “pack the stands” and cheer on the Lady Thunder as they represented Brunswick, Keytesville, and Northwestern schools in district action.
Classroom Highlights and Student Achievements
Across the three Thunder partner schools, students have been busy both inside and outside the classroom.
At Brunswick R-II, members of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) earned recognition through the National Chapter of the Year program, completing their first milestone, Summer Starter. Chapter officers planned welcome events, developed programs of work, and created new T-shirt designs.
Student leaders such as Sydnee Brashear, Maddie Price, Nathaniel Sims, and Edward Uzenski were each featured in the Officer Spotlight series for their dedication and leadership. Brunswick’s FFA chapter also celebrated Abby Rice, who was selected to perform with the National FFA Band at the upcoming national convention in Indianapolis.
Meanwhile, students at Northwestern R-I recently visited the Mendon Fire Protection District, where preschool and kindergarten classes learned about emergency safety and practiced using fire hoses under the guidance of Fire Chief Austin Rash and Assistant Chief Chase Young. The district also expressed appreciation to Green Hills Pharmacy for sponsoring its monthly staff appreciation snack cart.
At Keytesville R-III, elementary students combined reading and creativity by transforming pumpkins into characters from Mo Willems’ Pigeon book series, while the school’s FCCLA chapter prepared for its annual Bingo Night, complete with prizes, walking tacos, and baked goods.
STEM Success for Regional Students
Students from Brunswick R-II and Salisbury R-IV took part in the Mary and Ted Forbes Math and Science Competition at Central Methodist University in Fayette.
Brunswick’s team — Maggie Samek, Teagan Price, Gabby Jacobs, Zane Meyer, Mason Miller, and Paxton Barnett — earned second place among 20 teams, impressing judges with their problem-solving and teamwork during math challenges and a helicopter flight competition.
Salisbury’s participants, guided by algebra teacher Kristy Link, built lightweight paper helicopters designed to descend as slowly as possible from a height of 100 meters.
Both districts praised their students’ creativity, innovation, and enthusiasm for STEM learning.
