Regional Education News
BRANSON SCHOOLS
BHS to present fall play
BY K.D. MICHAELS, Staff Writer
The Branson High School Performing Arts Department is gearing up for their fall play. "Almost, Maine" will begin on November 5.
"Almost, Maine" is a funny but heartfelt story of love, with all its twists and turns,
Under the direction of Erin Moody, "Almost, Maine" performances will be held November 5, 6 and 7, beginning at 7 p.m., in the Branson High School Auditorium.
Tickets are available at the door, or online at bransonhighschooltheatre.ludus.com. Tickets are $10 per adult and $8 per student.
Through "Almost, Maine," the cast of Branson High School students promise an evening of laughter, surprises and fun!
COLLEGE OF THE OZARKS
College of the Ozarks to host Homecoming 2026: ‘Together We Welcome’
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College of the Ozarks will host Homecoming 2026, themed Together We Welcome, Friday - Saturday, Nov. 6 - 7. Homecoming weekend will consist of several events for each day, including the alumni golf game, alumni breakfast and a C of O homecoming parade.
“Homecoming provides a special opportunity to reconnect, reflect and celebrate all that we share,” said Angela Williamson, director of alumni relations. “Welcoming alumni back to campus is one of the highlights of the year, as they renew friendships, reconnect with faculty and staff, and experience again the community that helped shape their lives.”
The entire weekend of events for Homecoming 2026 will be centered around the theme Together We Welcome.
“Together We Welcome is a celebration of the relationships that make College of the Ozarks unique,” Williamson said. “Whether alumni graduated recently or decades ago, they remain an important part of our campus family.”
The event welcomes alumni to return to the College to celebrate their legacy as part of the history of the institution. The alumni will participate in many events alongside current students.
Schedule of events
Friday, Nov. 6
● 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Alumni Registration, The Welcome Center
● 10 a.m. — Alumni Golf Game, Pointe Royale*
● 4 p.m. — Alumni Council Meeting & Dinner, Lakeside Dining Room, Pearl Rogers Dining Center
● 7 p.m. — Lady Cat Basketball vs. Champion Christian University, Howell W. Keeter Athletic Complex
● 8 p.m. — 1980s’ Remix, Main Level, Robert W. Plaster School of Business
Saturday, Nov. 7
● 8 a.m. — Alumni Breakfast, Dobyns Dining Room, The Keeter Center*The Alumni Association Annual Meeting will immediately follow the breakfast at 9 a.m.
● 8:30 a.m. — 5K Run/Walk, Meet at Howell W. Keeter Athletic Complex*
● 9 a.m. — Alumni Registration, The Welcome Center
● 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Student Activity Booths & Alumni Registration, Activities Field
● 10:30 a.m. — Alumni Memorial Service, Williams Memorial Chapel
● 11:30 a.m. — 1960s’ Reunion, Christian Ministries Lounge
● 12:30 p.m. — Firehouse Alumni Honors Ceremony, Firehouse Pavilion
● 1 p.m. — Class Reunion Photos, Williams Memorial Chapel Lawn
Class reunion years will report at designated times for photos.
● 1:00 — 1946, 1951, 1956, 1961 HS, 1961 JC
● 1:10 — 1966 HS, 1966 JC, 1971, 1976
● 1:20 — 1981, 1986, 1991, 1996
● 1:30 — 2001, 2006, 2011, 2016, 2021
● 2:15 p.m. — C of O Homecoming Parade
● 3:15 p.m. — Bobcats vs. Ecclesia College, Howell W. Keeter Athletic Complex
● 6 p.m. — Alumni Meritorious Awards & Celebration Dinner, The Hook Activities Center*
*Ticketed event
For more information, call the alumni office, 417-690-2208.
College of the Ozarks to host 2026 National First Responders Appreciation Day, Oct. 28
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College of the Ozarks will honor the unwavering dedication and bravery of local first responders during its 2026 First Responders Appreciation Day on Oct. 28.
The event will be held from 9 – 11 a.m. on the College campus. First responders, students and members of the public are invited to join in a heartfelt tribute.
The event serves as a tribute to the courage, sacrifice and service of all first responders who answer the call when others are in need.
This event will feature a First Responders Appreciation Day parade, a memorial ceremony at Williams Memorial Chapel and refreshments immediately following the ceremony.
National First Responders Day is recognized nationally on Oct. 28. Congress has repeatedly adopted resolutions recognizing and honoring the service and sacrifice of the nation’s first responders.
This year’s ceremony will honor the lives and service of Christian County Sheriff's Deputies Gabriel Ramirez and Michael Hislope, two courageous public servants who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their community.
Dr. Lloyd Nguyen, associate professor of criminal justice, shared why this recognition is so important to the College.
“Christ demonstrated the ultimate example of selfless sacrifice for humanity,” Nguyen said. “In a different, but deeply meaningful way, first responders demonstrate selflessness when they accept the responsibility to protect others, often entering circumstances others are trying to escape. Their service reflects courage, compassion, duty and a willingness to put others' welfare before their own.”
If you would like to participate in the parade, please RSVP to lnguyen@cofo.edu with the number of attendees and the number of emergency/service vehicles participating.
Event schedule
● 9 a.m. – First Responders Parade Staging
● 9:30 a.m. – First Responders Appreciation Parade
● 10 a.m. – Memorial and Appreciation Ceremony
● 11 a.m. – Reception
College of the Ozarks to host 48th annual auction, Oct. 24
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College of the Ozarks will host its 48th annual auction on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026, beginning at 9 a.m. at the transportation department parking lot. Open to the public, the auction will feature vehicles, construction equipment and a variety of miscellaneous household items. The sale, conducted by Holders Auction Service of Butterfield, MO, will continue until the last item is sold. All proceeds support campus programs and student initiatives. Concessions will be available for purchase from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
This year’s auction includes:
· A Grove TMS 540 Mobile Crane
· Several 1980s dually work trucks
· Several 15 passenger vans
· An assortment of work tools
· An assortment of furniture, appliances, electronics
· Scrap metal
· Kitchen and décor items
“The annual auction is a great way that the college connects to the community,” said Chelsea Couey, operations support coordinator.
Holders Auction Service has provided auction services for the college and community for many years. For photos and additional auction details, visit the Holders Auction Service Facebook page or the auction listing.
For additional information, contact Carl Hendrix at 417- 342-4370.
The auction will take place at College of the Ozarks, located three miles south of Branson on U.S. Highway 65. Attendees should take the Hollister exit and follow campus signage to the transportation department parking lot.
CRANE SCHOOLS
Crane JAG students help Discover Crane prepare for Christmas lights
BY SARAH POWELL, Staff Writer
Christmas preparations are underway in Crane as Discover Crane Inc. works to bring new lights and displays to this year’s Lights in the Park celebration. Helping make the holiday season brighter, Crane JAG students recently volunteered their time and energy to assist with the project.
(Photos by Sarah Powell)
The students arrived ready to work, helping Discover Crane make progress on adding new lighting to the park’s Christmas displays. Their willingness to serve their community demonstrates the spirit of teamwork and volunteerism that helps make Crane a special place to call home.
According to Discover Crane, “Crane’s JAG students showed up ready to work and made some excellent progress!”
This year’s Lights in the Park promises to offer even more holiday cheer, with many new lights and displays planned for the community to enjoy. The additions will help create a festive atmosphere for local families and visitors looking to celebrate the Christmas season together.
Community involvement plays an important role in bringing events like Lights in the Park to life. Volunteers of all ages can make a difference, and the JAG students’ efforts are a great example of young people stepping up to support their hometown.
Discover Crane Inc. encourages others who would like to contribute to this year’s Christmas preparations to get involved.
For more information about volunteering or helping with the project, contact Julia Keener or email discovercraneinc@gmail.com.
With the help of dedicated volunteers and new holiday displays on the way, Crane is preparing to make this Christmas season even brighter for the community.
GALENA SCHOOLS
Galena FFA hosts annual Truck or Treat
BY SARAH POWELL, Staff Writer
The Galena FFA Chapter brought Halloween fun to the community with its second annual “Truck” or Treat event, offering families an opportunity to celebrate the season together.
(Photos courtesy Galena Schools)
The event featured a festive atmosphere filled with Halloween spirit, sweet treats and community involvement. Events like Truck or Treat provide a fun, family-friendly way for children to enjoy the excitement of Halloween while connecting with local organizations and community members.
The Galena FFA Chapter expressed its appreciation to the volunteers who helped make the evening a success. Their time and dedication helped create a memorable experience for everyone who attended.
Following the event, the chapter shared its excitement on social media, stating, “Our second annual ‘Truck’ or Treat community event was a blast! Thank you to all of our volunteers for helping make tonight great!”
The successful event highlights the importance of community partnerships and the hard work of local volunteers in creating enjoyable seasonal traditions for Galena families.
HOLLISTER SCHOOLS
Hollister Tiger Band brings home State Championship
BY AJ FAHR, Staff Writer
The Hollister Tiger Band competed and won in the Missouri State Marching Band Competition this past weekend in Columbia, MO.
The district celebrated the hard earned accomplishment on their social media pages. “Help us congratulate the Hollister Tiger Band on being named the Missouri State Marching Association Class 3A State Champions,” the school said. “The Tigers brought home the championship on Saturday, October 17, at Battle High School in Columbia, Missouri.
According to the school, the band program has won three state championships, including this weekend’s record breaking win.
“This marks the third state championship in band program history and the highest score the program has ever achieved with an incredible 81.250,” stated the school. “Despite being the smallest band in the finals competition, Hollister’s score surpassed all but three scores in Classes 5A and 6A! Talk about making a BIG impact!”
The Tiger Band also brought home outstanding caption awards in the Class 3A competition for Music, Visual, General Effect and Color Guard.
“We are so proud of our talented students, dedicated directors and everyone who makes the Pride of Hollister shine,” the school said. “Your hard work and determination continue to make Hollister proud!”
The band will take on the national stage as it is scheduled to compete against bands from around the country in one more competition for the season this Saturday, Oct. 24, in St. Louis, at the Bands of America St. Louis Super Regional at The Dome at America’s Center. “Let’s cheer them on as they take the Hollister Tiger spirit to the national stage,” stated the school.
HURLEY SCHOOLS
Hurley Cross Country Team shines at Everton meet
BY SARAH POWELL, Staff Writer
The Hurley Tigers Cross Country Team had an impressive showing Tuesday at the Everton meet, bringing home multiple top finishes and continuing to build momentum throughout the season.
(Photos courtesy of Hurley Schools)
Eighth grader Skyler Flood led the way for the Tigers, capturing first place in the middle school boys division. Flood's outstanding performance earned him the top spot in the competition and added another accomplishment to his cross-country season.
The Hurley girls also had reason to celebrate as eighth grader Chloe Scott claimed second place in the middle school girls division. Her strong finish demonstrated the hard work and dedication she has put into the season.
Eighth grader Nick Coleman rounded out the team's notable performances, finishing 13th in his division and earning recognition for his efforts as well.
The three runners' accomplishments reflect the commitment and determination the Hurley cross country athletes have demonstrated throughout the season. With each meet, the Tigers continue to gain valuable experience, challenge themselves and represent their school with pride.
Cross country requires endurance, discipline and perseverance, and the Hurley runners have shown they are ready to put in the work needed to compete at a high level.
The team's success at Everton gives the Tigers plenty of reasons to celebrate as they continue their season and look ahead to upcoming competitions.
Congratulations to Skyler Flood, Chloe Scott, Nick Coleman and the entire Hurley cross country team on a successful meet! The Hurley community is proud of these athletes and their accomplishments.
Hurley students recognized for responsibility
BY SARAH POWELL, Staff Writer
Hurley Schools recently recognized two students for demonstrating the character trait of responsibility, naming seventh grader Evie Maxwell and senior Eddie Sims as the October Students of the Month.
Each month, Hurley Schools highlights students who consistently demonstrate positive character traits through their actions, attitudes and interactions with others. This month’s focus on responsibility recognizes students who can be counted on to make good choices, follow through on their commitments and contribute positively to their school community.
Maxwell, a seventh grader, and Sims, a senior, were selected for their efforts and commitment to demonstrating responsibility in their daily lives at school. Their recognition serves as an example of how students of different ages can make a meaningful impact through dependable and positive behavior.
Hurley Schools congratulated both students on this accomplishment and expressed pride in their continued efforts.
Recognizing students for character is an important part of building a positive school environment. By celebrating qualities such as responsibility, Hurley Schools encourages students to develop habits that can serve them well both in the classroom and beyond.
Congratulations to Evie Maxwell and Eddie Sims on being named October Students of the Month. Hurley Schools and the community are proud to celebrate their achievement and the example they are setting for their fellow students.
KIRBYVILLE SCHOOLS
Kirbyville School receives grant to reduce preschool tuition
BY AJ FAHR, Staff Writer
Kirbyville R-VI School District will be able to help families of their youngest Braves.
The district was recently awarded a $10,000 Hope Grant from the Silver Dollar City Foundation. The monies will help provide financial support to make the preschool enrollment more affordable for families in the Kirbyville community.
School officials announced the grant with enthusiasm, celebrating the opportunity to invest in early childhood education and provide meaningful assistance to families with young children. The district plans to put the funding to work immediately by reducing preschool tuition for the remainder of the current school year.
“We are thrilled to share that Kirbyville R-VI School District has been awarded the Silver Dollar City Foundation Hope Grant in the amount of $10,000,” the school said in a statement. “We are putting these funds to work right away for our youngest Braves and their families.”
The school said starting next month tuition to their preschool classes will cost less.
“Beginning Tuesday, November 3, preschool tuition will be reduced by $5 per day for the remainder of the school year,” the statement said. “This reduction will be applied automatically, so there is nothing families need to do.”
For families balancing the costs of childcare, education and other everyday expenses, even a modest reduction in tuition can make a meaningful difference over time.
Studies have shown early childhood education plays an important role in preparing children for future academic success. Preschool provides young learners with opportunities to develop foundational skills, build social connections, explore their interests and become more comfortable in a structured learning environment. By helping reduce the cost of preschool, the district hopes to support families as they take these important first steps in their children's education.
The Kirbyville R-VI School District expressed its gratitude to the Silver Dollar City Foundation for selecting the district to receive the Hope Grant.
“A big Brave Brag and a heartfelt THANK YOU to the Silver Dollar City Foundation for investing in our students and our community,” the school stated. “Support like this helps us continue building strong foundations for bright futures, right from the very start.”
The Silver Dollar City Foundation Hope Grants are designed to create hope for students and parents in our area.
“Over the past three years, nearly $700,000 has been distributed between 14 school districts serving Stone and Taney County children. These grants empower schools to address life’s hardships such as food insecurities, parental engagement, lack of daycare providers and early childhood education opportunities,” states the Silver Dollar City Foundation website. “During the 2025-26 school year, these projects directly impacted more than 3,000 students plus countless other individuals including educators, parents, siblings and community members.”
REEDS SPRING SCHOOLS
Reeds Spring School District Trunk or Treat on October 27
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Kids are encouraged to dress up and fill their buckets with candy during Trunk or Treat on Tuesday, October 27. The school district is holding the event at a new location this year, Wolf Pack Park.
The event runs from 6-7:30 p.m. Many community groups, businesses and school clubs will decorate trunks and hand out candy. We ask families to donate $1 per child, if possible, to support our Primary, Elementary and Intermediate schools.
Guests can park in the lot just outside the Wolf Pack Park entrance, at Reeds Spring Middle School, or at Reeds Spring High School.
Reeds Spring Wolf Pride Band hosts 18th Annual Ozark Mountain Marching Festival
BY JOELENE POWELL, Staff Writer
Music, movement and school spirit took center field as marching bands showcased their talents in a day of competition.
Twenty-one high school marching bands took to the field at Reeds Spring High School this past Saturday, Oct. 17, for the 18th Annual Ozark Mountain Marching Festival.
(Photos by Joelene Powell)
Hosted by the Reeds Spring Wolf Pride Marching Band, the festival brought together musicians from Missouri, Arkansas and Oklahoma for a day of performances and competition. The event featured preliminary rounds followed by an evening finals competition.
Wolf Pride Marching Band Director Josh Garoutte said the festival provides an opportunity to bring talented marching bands together for a competitive and enjoyable experience.
"We are excited to host some of the area's best marching bands as part of our festival," Garoutte said. "Serving as a competition and a celebration of bands, OMMF 2026 will be a fun and positive experience for all involved."
Participating schools included the El Dorado Springs Bulldogs, Forsyth Panthers, Clever Blue Jays, Strafford Indians, Marionville Comets, Ava Bears, Houston Tigers, Salem Tigers, Fair Grove Eagles, St. James Tigers, Springfield Glendale Falcons, Green Forest Tigers of Arkansas, Monett Cubs, Springfield Central Bulldogs, Checotah Wildcats of Oklahoma, Logan-Rogersville Wildcats, Marshfield Blue Jays, Raymore-Peculiar Panthers, Lee's Summit West Titans and Ozark Tigers.
The Reeds Spring Wolf Pride Marching Band served as host and performed in exhibition rather than competing, bringing the total number of participating bands to 21.
Bands competed in classifications based on ensemble size, with judges evaluating musical performance, visual presentation, percussion and color guard. Thirteen bands advanced to the evening finals, competing in Red and White divisions.
Ava captured first place in the Red division with a score of 72.475, followed by St. James in second place with 71.400 and Clever in third with 70.500.
Ozark earned first place in the White division with a score of 83.450, the highest score of the evening. Logan-Rogersville finished second with 82.850, followed by Checotah in third with 80.875.
Originally established as a competition for smaller marching bands, the Ozark Mountain Marching Festival has expanded to welcome ensembles of all sizes, with participating bands ranging from 26 to 165 members in recent years.
The festival concluded with an evening awards ceremony, recognizing the competing bands following a full day of musical performances.
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