FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nine Southwest Missouri Schools Announce Formation of New Regional School Conference April 17th 2026 — A group of area school districts has officially announced the formation of a new athletic and activities conference designed to strengthen competition, enhance student opportunities, and foster regional collaboration.
The newly established James River Valley Conference (JRVC) will include the following member schools: Blue Eye, Bradleyville, Chadwick, Everton, Galena, Hurley, Kirbyville (K-8), Niangua, and School of the Ozarks.
This conference was formed with the shared goal of creating a sustainable, geographically sensible structure that prioritizes student experience while maintaining strong community traditions. By aligning schools with similar enrollment sizes and travel considerations, the conference aims to provide balanced competition and increased participation opportunities for student-athletes as well as promote academic collaboration between all districts. Students from the conference districts will be asked to help create the new conference name.
“This collaboration represents a commitment to doing what is best for students,” said Dr. David Baker, Niangua Superintendent. “We are excited about the opportunities this conference creates—not only in athletics, but in building relationships across our communities.”
The conference will begin official competition in the 2026-2027 school year, with schedules, bylaws, and championship structures currently being finalized by member schools.
In addition to athletics, the conference is expected to explore expanded opportunities in academic and extracurricular activities, further supporting a well-rounded student experience.
More information, including finalized schedules and governance details, will be released in the coming months.