By Travis Anderson | Norwalk-Ontario-Wilton School District Superintendent
Greetings from Brookwood! Our students and staff are off to an outstanding start as students and staff move into the second quarter of the 2025–2026 school year. With academic achievement, artistic excellence, and community engagement on full display, the district continues to take pride in the many accomplishments of its students.
One of Brookwood’s most cherished traditions is the annual Veterans Day program, organized and led by high school students with support from dedicated staff. This year’s program featured student-read poems, quotes, speeches, musical performances, and a student-produced video highlighting interviews with local veterans who shared their stories of service. All Brookwood students, from kindergarten through 12th grade, attended the event. In addition, the school hosted a special luncheon for veterans and their families. Thanks to the efforts of the kitchen staff, 103 veterans and guests were served — a record turnout. The program remains a community favorite, and families are encouraged to mark their calendars for next year’s celebration.
Brookwood students also have excelled across multiple areas this fall. In the fine arts department, the high school marching band delivered an impressive halftime performance titled “The Greatest Show” and recently joined more than 750 students from around the region at UW–La Crosse’s High School Band Day. The junior high band entertained elementary students with a Halloween concert, and for the first time in school history, two Brookwood students were selected for the WCBA All-State Honors Band.
The theatre department likewise shined, advancing to the state competition with its production of “Greek Mythology Olympiaganza.” The group earned the Critics Choice Award — the highest possible honor — along with the Outstanding Ensemble Award. Three students received Outstanding Acting Awards, and Brookwood’s theatre director was recognized with the Outstanding Directing Award. Staff and students alike are eager to perform in the school’s new facility opening soon.
Brookwood athletics also had a strong fall season. The football team advanced to the playoffs, the volleyball team reached the regional final, the boys cross country team qualified for state, and numerous athletes earned conference and regional honors. Head Football Coach Mack was named Scenic Bluffs Conference Coach of the Year as well. The district applauds its student-athletes and coaches for their achievements both on the field and in the classroom.
Beyond academics and extracurriculars, Brookwood students continue to make a meaningful impact in the community. The Hispanic Dance Group will perform in the Sparta Christmas Parade on Dec. 5 and deliver holiday cookies to local senior citizens. Fifth graders recently participated in a Performing Arts Fair, high school multimedia students spent time behind the scenes with News Channel 8 in La Crosse, and elementary students have been active at the Kickapoo Valley Reserve, taking part in hands-on wildlife learning experiences. A group of high school students also attended the Wisconsin Education Fair to explore college programs across the state.
These real-world experiences help students connect classroom learning to future opportunities, and Brookwood is consistently praised for students’ positive behavior during off-campus events.
To stay up to date on upcoming activities, families are encouraged to attend school events or follow the district’s Facebook page, where they can also see highlights such as Artists of the Month, Students of the Month, and Athletes of the Month.
There is no shortage of good news at Brookwood — far more than can fit in a single article. Our referendum projects are also wrapping up in the coming months, and we are excited for you to see the exceptional learning spaces created for our students. From the entire Brookwood staff and student body, we send warm wishes for a happy Thanksgiving and a joyful holiday season and a sincere THANK YOU to all who continue to support our school!
