School districts across Chariton County — including Brunswick R-II, Keytesville R-III, Northwestern R-I, and Salisbury R-IV — wrapped up December with a full slate of academic accomplishments, athletic success, fine arts performances, and community-focused events. From postseason football honors and winter basketball tournaments to classroom projects and seasonal celebrations, students across the county finished the first semester strong.
Keytesville R-III School District Celebrates Leadership, Traditions, and Thunder Athletics
The Keytesville R-III School District wrapped up the first semester with seasonal traditions, student recognition, and continued success in athletics.
Elementary students spread holiday cheer through a town-wide Christmas caroling event, visiting local businesses and community offices throughout Keytesville. Literacy initiatives remained a focus through the annual “Cozy Up With a Good Book” afghan project, which provided handmade blankets to preschool and elementary students.
The district announced a leadership update, naming Zane Jacoby as the next superintendent, and celebrated the second birthday of Alfie, the district’s therapy dog, whose presence supports student well-being.
In athletics, Thunder Football players continued to receive conference, district, and Academic All-State honors. The annual Thunder Football and Cheer Banquet brought together student-athletes from Brunswick, Keytesville, and Northwestern, recognizing junior high and varsity players for their accomplishments during the fall season.
Brunswick R-II School District Highlights Academics, Athletics, and Safety
The Brunswick R-II School District closed out December with a busy schedule featuring student creativity, athletic milestones, and strong community partnerships.
In the classroom, Brunswick High School American Literature juniors brought Edgar Allan Poe’s The Fall of the House of Usher to life by designing detailed model houses that symbolized character development and psychological decline. Career Math students completed a semester-long stock market simulation, giving students hands-on experience with investing and financial decision-making. Trevin Manson finished the semester with the highest portfolio gain at $19,468.60.
Elementary students participated in festive learning activities, including Polar Express Day, holiday literacy stations, and hands-on STEM bridge-building challenges.
Athletically, the Brunswick Lady Cats and Wildcats basketball teams competed throughout December, including games at the 12 Courts of Christmas tournament at Hy-Vee Arena in Kansas City and preparation for the New Franklin Tournament. Pep Band performances and varsity cheerleading routines helped energize home crowds and reinforce school spirit.
One of the month’s standout moments came when Joslynn Brown reached the 1,000-point career scoring milestone, earning recognition on her home court for her dedication and achievement.
Community support remained strong as Carroll County Memorial Hospital donated Stop the Bleed emergency kits to the district, strengthening emergency preparedness. The Brunswick Band also raised $1,120 for the Pink Out Fund, supporting a cause close to many local families.
Northwestern R-I School District Showcases Student Growth and Community Service
At the Northwestern R-I School District, December highlighted student leadership, academic engagement, and community outreach.
The Northwestern Eagles basketball teams closed out 2025 with competitive performances, including a boys’ comeback win at Tina-Avalon and games during the NCMC Foundation Holiday Hoops event. Pep assemblies and home games helped maintain strong school spirit as the winter season continued.
Northwestern elementary students raised $896 through the Art from the Heart project, benefiting Chariton County Kids Christmas and the Chariton County Child Welfare Committee. Students also participated in the Great Bedtime Story Pajama Drive, collecting 167 pairs of pajamas to support children facing housing instability.
Career readiness remained a priority through the rootEd program, with students participating in job shadow experiences in education, cosmetology, engineering, and skilled trades. The district also celebrated a staff accomplishment as junior high English teacher and alum Jennie “Heussner” Young published her children’s journal, Mission Me: A Journal of Self-Discovery and Confidence.
Salisbury R-IV School District Highlights Athletics and Creative Learning
The Salisbury R-IV School District closed out December with strong athletic performances and creative classroom activities.
Salisbury High School basketball teams competed in several tournaments, including the 12 Courts of Christmas and the Centralia Tournament, earning victories and solid finishes. Junior high teams also posted successful tournament results, continuing a strong winter sports season.
The district also celebrated a standout football postseason as Salisbury student-athletes earned multiple All-District and All-State honors, reflecting the program’s success.
In the classroom, students engaged in diverse learning activities ranging from music exploration and archery lessons to eighth-grade book report projects combining baking and creative design. Elementary students wrapped up the semester with Christmas at the Movies, supported by the PTO and local partners.
Chariton County Schools Head into the New Year Strong
Across Chariton County, December showcased the strength of local school districts and the communities that support them. Through academics, athletics, fine arts, and service projects, students demonstrated dedication, creativity, and pride as they head into the second semester of the school year.
