School History

…a community of lifelong learners that nurtures the character and intellect of each individual.

Welcome to Mary Paxton Keeley Elementary School!

We look forward to providing your child with an outstanding educational experience. Opened in 2002, Paxton Keeley Elementary School is named after Mary Paxton Keeley, the first woman to graduate from MU’s School of Journalism. The staff looks forward to working with you to nurture our community. We strive to maintain a reputation of excellence as we seek to meet the needs of all children enrolled in our school. 

Born: June 2nd, 1886 in Independence, Missouri. Daughter of John Paxton and Mary Neil Gentry.

Education: Enrolled at MU University School of Journalism when it opened in 1908. She became the first woman to graduate in 1910. She received a Masters in Journalism. 

Career: Mary was employed as a reporter for the Kansas City Post in 1910. From 1929-1952, she taught journalism at Christian College (now Columbia College).

Service: Mary served in the American Red Cross in France during World War II.