Former Keene Elementary sells at auction; playground to remain a community fixture

Keene UMC purchases playground for $40,000, while Gray Star Concrete buys school building for $31,000 and plans to preserve it.

The Keene Elementary School and property, which was once part of the River View School District, sold at auction.

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Published December 5, 2025 - 5:30 a.m.

The Keene Elementary School and property, which was once part of the River View School District, sold at auction.

Superintendent Chuck Rinkes told the board of education after the auction that he was happy with the turnout. There were 15 bidders in person and 10 online with two from out of state.

The playground fetched $40,000 from Keene United Methodist Church, and the school went for $31,000 to Gray Star Concrete. A representative from Gray Star Concert at the auction said plans for the building are still in discussion, but they will not tear it down.

Representatives of Keene UMC, Larry Endsley and Melody Lowe, want the playground to stay in Keene for the community with hopes it also will help grow the church family. Lowe said the playground has always been a staple in the community, and it will continue to be open to everyone.