Students across Chariton County are staying busy this fall with a variety of academic, athletic, and extracurricular activities. From author visits and STEM nights to athletic tournaments and community service projects, Brunswick R-II, Keytesville R-III, Northwestern R-I, and Salisbury R-IV school districts are celebrating student achievements and school events that highlight both learning and teamwork.
Brunswick R-II
Brunswick Elementary welcomed local author Katy Martin and illustrator Season Duncan, who shared their books Gordon’s Talent and Gordon’s Gift, and offered a preview of the third book in the series. Students enjoyed readings, insights into the writing and illustrating process, and a question-and-answer session.
Fifth graders attended the Shrine Circus, enjoying the show and a fun experience together. The district continues to celebrate student achievements in FFA, with Abby Rice placing 2nd in Missouri Soil and Water, James Reid recognized by Missouri Young Farmers/Young Farm Wives, and Maci Mohr acknowledged by the Missouri Cattleman’s Association.
The district hosted STEM Night, where students built hands-on STEM kits and explored problem-solving. Former student Hannah Rice, now at Mizzou, presented on the immune system to juniors and seniors. Additionally, the annual Reading Week activities included Mrs. Sanders’ reading parody tradition, inspiring students to engage with literature.
Brunswick Wildcats basketball updates include junior high scores: JH Lady Cats 65, JH Wildcats 49 vs. Southwest on 11/20/25, and JH Lady Cats 56, JH Wildcats 46 vs. Tina-Avalon on 11/18/25. Varsity basketball schedule updates have been announced for upcoming JV Boys and Varsity Girls games.
Keytesville R-III
The district announced that Superintendent Will Perkins will retire from full-time duties at the end of the school year, concluding a 31-year career in education. He will continue part-time to support the district and assist with the transition to a new superintendent. Key initiatives he will remain involved with include bond construction, staff development, student achievement improvements, and financial oversight.
Keytesville hosted Fall Literacy Night for kindergarten through 2nd grade, featuring problem-solving activities to “save” Tom the Turkey and hands-on crafts, followed by a pizza gathering for students and families.
Junior high basketball wrapped up with a road game in Madison: the girls team battled hard, and the boys secured a 33-26 victory. Home games also concluded with wins for both girls and boys teams. Varsity basketball games began in early December, with Keytesville competing against teams including Northwestern and BMC.
Northwestern R-I
Northwestern’s varsity teams faced a tough home opener against Orrick, with final scores: Lady Bearcats 48, Lady Eagles 21; Bearcats 66, Eagles 50. Both teams were scheduled to return to action in Keytesville on 11/24/25. Cheerleaders were recognized for keeping school spirit high during games.
Students participated in job shadows at Pershing Memorial Hospital in Brookfield through the rootEd Program, gaining experience in Med Surg, Physical Therapy, and X-Ray departments. Fifth graders enjoyed a field trip to the Ararat Shrine Circus, sponsored by the Tri County Shrine Club and local businesses.
The fifth grade continues to collect pajamas for the 16th Annual Great Bedtime Story Pajama Drive sponsored by Scholastic. Students and families are encouraged to donate new pajamas, which will be matched with books for children in need. Students also participated in the DARE program, with essay contest winners and citizenship awards recognized for demonstrating leadership and character.
Northwestern hosted its 70th Annual Basketball Tournament from December 1–6, 2025, and announced alumni participation from the 1957 team and earlier classes. Students of the Month for October were recognized, including Parker Ostermann (7th/8th grade), Case Reckamp (9th/10th grade), and Sophie Speichinger (11th/12th grade). The week’s RLS Eagle was Sidny, honored for teamwork and cooperation.
Salisbury R-IV
Salisbury students participated in Quarterfinal football against Putnam County, with events streamed online and attended by families and the community. The district celebrated Substitute Appreciation Day, thanking substitute teachers for their dedication and flexibility in supporting student learning.
Fifth graders enjoyed a trip to the Shriners Circus, and high school students attended the Missouri Future Teachers Association State Convention in Columbia, engaging in workshops, college fairs, and voting for student ambassadors for the next year. Students attending included Ella Linneman, Khloe Wilson, Caydee Lauhoff, and Collier Kuhiman.
Junior high basketball updates included scores from the St. Joe Tournament, with scheduled championship and third-place games, rounding out a busy fall season for Salisbury athletics.
