Education News from around the region
BRANSON SCHOOLS
Branson Senior receives rare honor
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
A Branson High School Senior has received a special honor.
Georgia Griffith was named a Commended Student in the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program.
Grittith was one of approximately 34,000 students across the nation recognized as a Commended Students. Those achieving the honor placed among the top 50,000 students who entered the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program, by completing the 2025 Preliminary SAT (PSAT) and the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT),
"We are very proud of Georgia and the dedication she has shown throughout her educational journey, noted Dixie Bailey, Branson High School Senior Counselor. "Being recognized as a National Merit recipient is an exciting honor, and we look forward to seeing all she will accomplish in the future."
Griffith was presented a Letter of Commendation from Branson High School and the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.
Fourth annual Community Summit focuses on Branson Schools
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
The Branson School District recently held their annual Community Summit to share information and hear community members offer their input about Branson Schools.
The Summit, held at the Branson Convention Center, brought together a blend of community leaders, current and retired teachers, students, administrators, members of the community and families from throughout the school district. The event served as a large-scale focus group, where attendees enjoyed breakfast, heard an update from Branson Superintendent Dr. Moore, and shared their thoughts and ideas regarding the future of Branson Schools.
A total of 149 people attended the fourth annual Branson Public School Community Summit.
Branson students were well represented in this year's Summit. Students from Student Council, FFA, GO CAPS, AFJROTC, band and choir all participated in the annual event, and the Branson School District welcomed students to take part in the round-table discussions, as well.
The Branson School District wants your input, too, as they continue to serve the students, their families and the community. Community members are invited to share their thoughts through the Community Feedback Survey, located on the district website, social media channels, and the community newsletter Chalk Talk. The survey can also be accessed by visiting https://www.branson.k12.mo.uw/dommunications/community_feedback_survey.
Everyone is welcome to complete the survey.
College and Career Fair to help students prepare for the future
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
Branson High School is inviting students to explore their options for the future with their annual College and Career Fair.
(Photos courtesy of Branson Schools)
Set for October 19, the College and Career Fair introduces students to a variety of options, such as a four-year college, community college, technical school, military service, or joining the workforce. The event will give students the opportunity to meet with representatives from a variety of schools, colleges and companies as they learn more about their many options following high school. The College and Career Fair also give parents and families the chance to ask questions to help their students make positive strides towards a successful future.
The College and Career Fair is open to High School students and their families from not only Branson, but also Hollister, Forsyth, Bradleyville, Blue Eye and School of the Ozarks.
"Students don't all have the same path after high school, and that's exactly why this event is so valuable," said Sarah Loyd, ninth grade counselor and AP coordinator at BHS. "We want students to see the possibilities that are out there, ask questions and discover opportunities they may not have considered before."
Loyd added that Branson is excited to welcome students from neighboring schools to participate in this event.
The College and Career Fair is set for Monday, October 19, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Branson High School, 935 Buchanan Road. Students in grades 9 - 12 and their families are encouraged to attend. For more information, contact Branson High School at 417-334-6511.
COLLEGE OF THE OZARKS
College of the Ozarks to host Student-Made Apple Butter Day, Oct. 17
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College of the Ozarks will host Student-Made Apple Butter Day on Saturday, Oct. 17, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will celebrate the College’s longstanding tradition of producing Student-Made Apple Butter with samples, seasonal food offerings and live music.
Guests can enjoy apple butter-inspired offerings, including a hot drink, apple butter bread and apple butter bacon-wrapped dates. The Keeter Center Dining Room and Bakery also will feature seasonal offerings highlighting Student-Made Apple Butter, including a lunch feature and special bakery items.
Guests also can enjoy sampling stations and a photo area. Student music group Still Waters will provide bluegrass and folk music on the front porch of The Keeter Center during the event.
Throughout the fall season, guests are encouraged to explore the College’s Student-Made industries and experience products created by College of the Ozarks student workers.
For more information about Student-Made Products and upcoming events, follow College of the Ozarks and The Keeter Center on Facebook and Instagram.
College of the Ozarks earns ACBSP accreditation for Business Department
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The business department at College of the Ozarks has earned accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), recognizing the department’s commitment to quality business education, student learning and continuous improvement.
ACBSP is a specialized accrediting organization that recognizes business programs that demonstrate excellence in teaching and student learning.
Receiving accreditation signifies that the business department has met rigorous national standards in areas including curriculum, faculty qualifications, strategic planning, assessment of student learning and overall program quality.
The accreditation provides an external validation of the education it provides while reinforcing its commitment to preparing students for successful careers in business.
“As someone who has served the College during the past two decades, it is especially rewarding to see our business department receive ACBSP accreditation after years of intentional planning, collaboration and continuous improvement,” said Dr. Autumn Moody, director of business assessment and professor of Business. “This achievement is a testament to the dedication of our faculty and staff, who spent the past two years strengthening our curriculum, enhancing assessment processes and demonstrating our commitment to student learning.”
The accreditation process took approximately two years and required faculty and staff to examine and strengthen nearly every aspect of the Business Department. Faculty evaluated the curriculum, improved assessment processes and collected at least three semesters of student learning data to demonstrate that students were achieving established learning outcomes.
The department also prepared a comprehensive self-study report documenting faculty qualifications, program effectiveness and evidence of improvement. The process concluded with an external peer review conducted by experienced business educators who evaluated the program and confirmed that it met ACBSP’s accreditation standards.
Although the process required a significant investment of time and effort, it provided the business department with an opportunity to examine how its programs serve students and identify ways to strengthen their education. Faculty continues to use assessment data and feedback from students, alumni, employers and the Business Advisory Board to ensure courses remain relevant to the needs of today’s workforce.
For current and prospective students, the accreditation provides assurance that they are earning a degree from a business program that has been independently evaluated and meets nationally recognized standards. It also demonstrates that students are receiving an education that is regularly evaluated and improved to prepare them for their future careers.
Graduating from an ACBSP-accredited program can also provide additional credibility with employers and graduate schools. In some cases, graduate schools may waive the GMAT requirement for students whose bachelor’s degree comes from an ACBSP-accredited program.
While ACBSP accreditation places the business department among nationally recognized business programs, the College offers students an experience that extends beyond traditional business education. The program combines nationally recognized academic standards with the College’s Christ-centered mission, Work Education Program and emphasis on ethical leadership and character development.
Through the Work Education Program, business students gain practical experience while pursuing their degrees, allowing them to develop professional skills alongside their classroom education. This combination of academic preparation, work experience and character development reflects the College’s broader mission of preparing students to lead with integrity and serve others in their professions and communities.
“I hope prospective students, alumni and supporters see this accreditation as confirmation of what many have already experienced at College of the Ozarks a business program that is deeply committed to academic excellence, ethical leadership and student success,” Moody said. “This achievement demonstrates that our program meets nationally recognized standards while remaining true to the College’s Christ-centered mission and unique Work Education Program.”
The accreditation marks an important achievement for the Business Department, but it also establishes a foundation for continued growth. Through the College’s Academic, Christian, Cultural, Patriotic and Vocational Pillars, the Business Department will continue preparing students with the knowledge, experience and character needed to make a positive impact in their professions and communities.
CRANE SCHOOLS
Crane Schools recognize September Students of the Month
BY SARAH POWELL, Staff Writer
Crane schools are celebrating two outstanding students who have been selected as the September Students of the Month for the junior high and high school. Izzy Bueno and Zepplin Hebert were recognized for their positive attitudes, strong work ethic, willingness to help others and commitment to making their classrooms better places to learn.
Izzy was recognized for her friendly personality and willingness to lend a helping hand to those around her. Her teachers described her as a student who consistently demonstrates kindness, enthusiasm and a strong desire to participate.
One teacher said, “I am nominating Izzy for her friendly and positive character. She is always willing to help those around her with whatever they need. She is always the first person to volunteer, answer questions, and a hard worker.”
Another teacher echoed those sentiments, praising Izzy for the way she approaches both her schoolwork and her interactions with others.
“Izzy is an all-around great student. She is polite and respectful. She is also a very hard worker. She comes to class excited to learn and participate!” the teacher shared.
Izzy’s recognition highlights the importance of students who not only work hard academically but also contribute positively to their school community. Her willingness to volunteer and assist others makes her a valuable presence in the classroom.
Zepplin was also recognized for his dedication to his schoolwork and his willingness to support his classmates. His teachers specifically highlighted his work ethic in Earth Science, along with his positive attitude and personality.
One teacher shared, “I have been so impressed with his work ethic this year! He consistently works hard in Earth Science, stays focused and on task and is always willing to help his classmates when they need it.”
The teacher also praised Zepplin for the attitude he brings to class each day, saying, “He comes to class with a great attitude and has such a fun personality that adds so much to our classroom.”
Both Izzy and Zepplin represent the qualities Crane schools strive to encourage in their students. Their recognition demonstrates that being a successful student goes beyond grades. Hard work, respect, kindness, participation, responsibility and helping others are all important parts of being a positive member of a school community.
Crane schools congratulate Izzy Bueno and Zepplin Hebert on being named the September Students of the Month and thank them for setting a great example for their fellow students.
Crane Schools celebrate first quarter Teachers of the Month
BY SARAH POWELL, Staff Writer
Crane Schools is recognizing two outstanding educators for their dedication and commitment to students during the first quarter of the school year.
The school recently announced Mrs. Erica Lawson and Mr. Wyley Brown as its Teachers of the Month for the first quarter, celebrating the important role teachers play in shaping students' educational experiences and helping them succeed.
The recognition highlights the hard work, patience and passion educators bring to the classroom each day. Teachers serve as mentors, encouragers and role models, helping students develop not only academically but also personally. Their influence often extends beyond lessons and assignments, creating supportive environments where students feel encouraged to learn, grow and reach their full potential.
Crane Schools expressed gratitude for the wonderful teachers who make a difference throughout the district and invited the community to join in celebrating Lawson and Brown for their accomplishments.
Strong schools are built on the dedication of educators who invest their time and energy into their students. Recognizing teachers for their contributions is one way to show appreciation for the countless ways they support students and strengthen the school community.
Congratulations to Mrs. Erica Lawson and Mr. Wyley Brown on being named Crane Schools' first-quarter Teachers of the Month! Their recognition serves as a reminder of the valuable work educators do every day to make a lasting difference in the lives of their students.
Crane Marching Pirate Band earns second place to close out 2026 season
BY SARAH POWELL, Staff Writer
The Crane Marching Pirate Band wrapped up its 2026 marching season on a high note Saturday morning, earning second place among eight bands during the Mount Vernon Apple Butter Makin’ Days Parade.
The performance marked the conclusion of a season filled with hard work, dedication and opportunities for students to showcase their musical talents and school pride. The band’s second place finish was a fitting way to close out the season and celebrate the efforts of the students who have spent countless hours preparing for performances throughout the year.
Representing Crane Schools, the Marching Pirate Band brought its musical talents to the streets of Mount Vernon, joining other bands in the annual parade associated with one of the region’s well-known fall festivals. Apple Butter Makin’ Days draws visitors from across the area to celebrate community traditions, making it a fitting setting for the band’s final performance of the year.
The second place finish among eight competing bands highlighted the students’ commitment to improving their skills and working together as a team. Marching band requires more than musical ability alone. Students must coordinate their movements, maintain timing, follow formations and work together to deliver a successful performance.
Throughout the season, the Crane students have demonstrated the importance of teamwork, discipline and perseverance. Each practice and performance provided an opportunity to strengthen their abilities while representing their school and community.
School officials expressed pride in the students and the hard work they invested throughout the marching season. Their dedication was evident in the results at Mount Vernon, where they finished near the top of the competition.
As the 2026 marching season comes to a close, the Marching Pirate Band can look back on its accomplishments with pride. The students’ second-place finish serves as a reminder of what can be achieved through teamwork, determination and a shared commitment to excellence.
Congratulations to the Crane Marching Pirate Band on a successful season and a strong finish at the Mount Vernon Apple Butter Makin’ Days Parade!
Crane Cross Country runners shine at East Newton meet
BY SARAH POWELL, Staff Writer
The Crane Pirates cross country team had an excellent day at the East Newton cross country meet, earning four medal finishes and recording four personal records. The team’s strong performance highlighted the runners’ hard work, determination and continued improvement throughout the season.
(Photos courtesy of Crane Schools)
Crane athletes competed against runners from other schools, with several Pirates finishing near the top of their respective races. Four runners earned medals for their performances, giving the team plenty of reasons to celebrate.
Annabelle Howell led the way for Crane with an impressive fifth place finish, completing her race in 11 minutes, 19 seconds. Emmitt Rogers also earned fifth place, finishing in 10 minutes, 3 seconds. Rogers marked the accomplishment with a personal record, showing significant progress and determination on the course.
Benjamin Morgan added another strong performance for the Pirates, placing 13th with a time of 19 minutes, 16 seconds. Cloey Gourley finished 15th with a time of 12 minutes, 37 seconds, setting a new personal record in the process.
Mason Westrip continued the team’s successful day by finishing 35th with a time of 11 minutes, 42 seconds. His performance also earned him a personal record. Corbin Simmons rounded out the reported results with a 43rd-place finish in 12 minutes, 27 seconds, marking another personal record for the Crane team.
The four personal records were an especially encouraging highlight of the meet, reflecting the runners’ dedication to improving their times and pushing themselves to new levels. Personal records represent important milestones for cross-country athletes, demonstrating how consistent effort and perseverance can lead to progress.
With four medal finishes and multiple personal bests, the East Newton meet proved to be a successful outing for Crane. The Pirates will look to build on their momentum as they continue their cross country season, gaining experience and striving to improve with each race.
Congratulations to all the Crane runners on their accomplishments at East Newton!
GALENA SCHOOLS
Galena Elementary celebrates successful fall carnival
BY SARAH POWELL, Staff Writer
Galena Elementary recently celebrated another successful Parent-Teacher-Student Organization (PTSO) Fall Carnival, bringing students, families and community members together for an evening of fun and school spirit.
(Photos courtesy of Galena Elementary)
The annual event provided an opportunity for families to enjoy the festivities while showing their support for Galena Elementary. From the planning and preparation to the excitement of carnival night, the event highlighted the dedication of the school's PTSO and the strong support of the surrounding community.
School representatives expressed their gratitude to the PTSO team for the many hours of hard work spent preparing for the carnival over the past several months. Their time, effort and commitment helped make the event another memorable success for students and families.
The school also thanked community members for coming out to participate in the festivities and support the school. Community involvement plays an important role in creating positive experiences for students and strengthening the connection between families and their school.
A special highlight of the carnival was the recognition of the Carnival Prince and Princess, selected from Mrs. Weiss's first-grade class. The school congratulated the young honorees on their special achievement.
Galena Elementary's successful fall carnival once again demonstrated what can be accomplished when dedicated volunteers, supportive families and a caring community come together to make a difference for local students.
HOLLISTER SCHOOLS
Hollister shows school spirit
BY AJ FAHR, Staff Writer
On Wednesday, Oct. 7, the Hollister School District marched their way down Downing Street toward a bonfire for the Hollister Homecoming Parade. Cheerleaders, band, volleyball teams, football players and students of all ages followed the blue paw prints down the street. The Homecoming court candidates rode in special vehicles waving to the crowd that lined the street.
TOP ROW: The award winning Hollister band marched down the street; The Hollister Cheerleaders showing school spirit. MIDDLE ROW: Three football players riding and waving to the crowd; The Hollister football team float carried signs showing school spirit. BOTTOM: Hollister Volleyball team on their float. (Photos by AJ Fahr)
“What a great evening celebrating Homecoming with Team Hollister at the Downing Street Parade and Community Bonfire,” stated the school district on their social media pages. “Homecoming is a time to celebrate our students, families, alumni and the community that makes Hollister such a special place! We love seeing familiar faces return, generations of Tigers come together and our community show up to celebrate the traditions that connect us all. Once a Tiger, always a Tiger!”
Hollister School to host fourth annual Transition Fair, Oct. 19
BY AJ FAHR, Staff Writer
The Hollister School District will be hosting an annual event to help students and young adults with special needs.
The fourth annual Transition Fair 2026 will be held at the Hollister High School Gym, located at 2112 State Hwy. BB, on Monday, Oct. 19, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The fair brings together young adults and families of people with special needs with resources aimed to help them navigate the transition from childhood to adulthood.
Hollister School Director of Special Services Kaitlyn Stitt said the event offers many opportunities and education to help build a stronger community. “This is our 4th Annual Transition Fair we are doing in our high school. It is to help connect students and parents with organizations that serve both high school students and young adults with special needs,” Stitt said. “We really are trying to explore resources for them that focus on education, employment, career opportunities, independent living, disability services, benefits, advocacy and transition planning.”
Stitt said the fair has invited more than 30 area organizations and has confirmed more than 20 will be in attendance to provide information to attendees. “This year we have over 20-plus organizations already,” Stitt said. “We invited 31. We have multiple community partners too that help support the event who will provide refreshments and snacks to those that attend.”
One of the perks of families attending is to build a community for themselves and their special needs family members. “It's really all about us giving an opportunity for children and young adults with disabilities to see the resources they have available,” Stitt said. “But along with that it offers their families, guardians, educators, school staff, service providers and community members to come together.”
Stitt said even though the event is targeted to high schoolers and young adults, community members of all ages are welcomed. “We definitely welcome it for both young adults and our high school students, we also invite anyone who's homeschooled, who attends other school districts, families who need help and support or just want to know more about the resources,” Stitt said. “We try to invite a lot of local organizations, but we also extend out into southwest Missouri.
Some things attendees can expect to see at the fair are things focused on helping to build future plans. “One of our focuses for the fair is to help prepare the transition from childhood to teenage life to adulthood. We invite those who provide services for both high school careers and also after high school, as well. So we are focused on helping connect families with disabilities with employment opportunities out there in our community, how to get employment training and how to prepare for life after high school.”
The fair is free and open to the public. For more information contact Hollister School District Special Service Department.
REEDS SPRING SCHOOLS
Wolf Pack Foundation awards $13,400 in classroom grants to Reeds Spring educators
BY JOELENE POWELL, Staff Writer
Creative ideas in the classroom are receiving a financial boost as the Wolf Pack Foundation invests $13,400 in educational opportunities for students throughout the Reeds Spring School District.
The foundation recently announced 26 classroom grants to district staff members, with individual awards of up to $500. The funding helps educators introduce new projects, expand instructional resources and provide learning experiences beyond traditional classroom activities.
Supporting students and educators throughout the district, the Wolf Pack Foundation focuses on classroom grants and student scholarships. Through community donations and fundraising efforts, the organization provides financial assistance designed to strengthen educational opportunities for Reeds Spring students.
This year's grant recipients include Stephana Bekebrede, Xann Boyd, Laura Cogdill, Derek Cook, Sara Criger, Ashley Gossen, McKenna Gray, Misty Harp, Derik Hobbs, Tennile Lee, Bryan Miller, Morgan Miller, Amy Moler and Kim Voelker, Yuliana Morales-Schafer, Jennifer Noriega, Trent Oxenreider, Amy Purk, TariLyn Rau, Jessica Robinette, Jeanne Sadler, Maegan Seaman, Kristal Schaefer, Annie Sullivan, Cyndi Trimble and Misti Langston, Jacob Williams and Katie Wilson.
Community contributions continue to make the foundation's work possible. The organization recognized memorial gifts honoring Christina Stabo from the Stabo family and contributions made in memory of Reeds Spring bus driver David Dul. The foundation also acknowledged a donation from the Bilberry family.
Through the continued support of local families, donors and educators, the Wolf Pack Foundation helps provide resources that benefit students and encourage new approaches to learning throughout the district.
Three Reeds Spring athletes qualify for state championships
BY JOELENE POWELL, Staff Writer
Three Reeds Spring High School athletes are headed to state competitions after qualifying in girls’ golf and girls’ tennis.
Left to right: Johnson, Clevenger, Mackie (Photos courtesy of Reeds Spring Schools)
Golfers Saylor Johnson and Lyla Mackie earned spots in the Class 2 State Golf Tournament following their performances at the Class 2 District 3 Tournament. The two will compete Oct. 19-20 at Bogey Hills.
In girls’ tennis, Chloe Clevenger secured her trip to state after winning three matches and advancing to the district championship match in Springfield, where she finished second.
Girls’ tennis coach Katie Wilson said Clevenger has shown a willingness to challenge herself and try new approaches on the court throughout the season.
“It was an amazing day,” Wilson said. “Chloe has been willing all season to try new things on the court, and her willingness to get out there and push is fun to watch!”
Clevenger will compete in the state tennis tournament Thursday, Oct. 22, in Springfield.
All three athletes will represent Reeds Spring High School as they compete for state honors.
Reeds Spring Elementary School Learners of the Month
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Second grade
Olivia Korte, Remington Silkwood, Ruby Loza, Jackie Hart, Maverick Sheffield, Aria Little, Jon Strieby, Deacon Miller, Andee Pankovits, Kason Miller, Jacob Cox, Aria Westerfield
Third grade
Lucas Pickerill, Skylar Erwin, Lillian Gregg, Hunter Brown, Dawson Hart, Amelia Rehmert, Kacen Day, Daxton Coleman, Caleb Eckerle, Levi Inselman, Anton Wachob
Fourth grade
Alexander Fullerton, Gunner Tolbert, Kylee Leimkuehler, Keegan Schafer, Jude Grantham, Lydia Piche, Trevor Cox, Zelda Lear, Reighlynn Mease, Kailey Hembree, Ella Neiswonger, Christopher Simmons, Freddie Moss
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