Let’s give a warm Zebra welcome to Lori Caswell, joining Claremont Elementary as a Special Education Teacher! 🦓🍎

Mrs. Caswell brings over a decade of teaching experience, having taught 3rd, 5th, and Special Education. She holds a degree in Arts from Governors State University in Illinois and is certified in Early Childhood, Elementary Education, Middle School Social Studies, and SPED Mild/Moderate.

She shared, “I teach because I love to help children learn. It is exciting to watch them grow, develop, and become successful in life.”

Why CPS? “I wanted a new opportunity to make a difference and help students grow and learn. The warm welcome I received during the hiring process confirmed that this was the right place.”

Mrs. Caswell enjoys:
📚: Bible
🎬: Hoosiers
🍫: Beaver Nuggets (from Buc-ee’s) & dark chocolate
☕: Coke Zero or Starbucks Coffee
🌈: Navy Blue
🌍: Camping just about anywhere
⚾: St. Louis Cardinals

Outside the classroom, she enjoys biking, camping, and spending time with her family. She’s also a pastor’s wife and worship leader at Journey Church in Oologah—and has quite the collection of cow-themed items!

Welcome to Claremore, Mrs. Caswell! #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
about 4 hours ago, CPS Communications
Mrs. Lori Caswell
Let’s welcome Dacie Sanders to the Zebra family in today’s New Staff Feature!

Ms. Sanders is joining Claremore High School as an Athletic Trainer. She holds a Bachelor’s in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Sports Medicine from John Brown University (Magna Cum Laude) and a Master’s in Athletic Training from Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, where she graduated with a 4.0 GPA.

When asked why she chose this path, she shared, “I’m passionate about athletics, love to build relationships, and enjoy being there for my patients and seeing them achieve their goals. The support system and sense of community among the CPS staff is what drew me here.”

Ms. Sanders enjoys:

📚: Little Women
🎬: Pearl Harbor
🥩: Beef Jerky
🍬: Chocolate-covered pretzels
🥤: Sweet Tea
🌈: Forest Green
📍: Grand Canyon

In her free time, she stays active playing pickleball and spikeball with friends and family, and serves as an assistant youth coordinator at her church. She’s the youngest of 32 first cousins and played soccer in high school for the NOAH Jaguars, winning nationals her senior year.

Welcome to the Claremore Zebra Dazzle, Ms. Dacie Sanders! 🦓 #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
3 days ago, CPS Communications
Ms. Dacie Sanders
🦓☀️ #ZebraTravelDiaries

These Zebra families spent the last days of summer making memories at Lake Texoma! 🌊⛵

The crew included first graders Talon Meyers & Jace Chaney, third graders Mattie Meyers & River Spencer, fifth graders Davis Meyers & Tember Spencer, sixth grader Peyton Chaney, para-professionals Sam Chaney & Krystal Spencer, librarian Karisa Meyers, and of course, the dads! 🙌

From splashing in the water to soaking up the sunshine, it was the perfect summer send-off filled with fun, family, and plenty of #CPSZebraPride.

Headed out on your own adventure? Send your Zebra gear pics to jbrace@claremore.k12.ok.us to be featured in our #ZebraTravelDiaries!
3 days ago, CPS Communications
zebra students at the lake
zebra family on the lake
🎉 Welcome Back, Zebras! 🦓 We kicked off the school year in true CPS style with our annual Welcome Back Rally, a celebration of the heart, hustle, and hope that define Claremore Public Schools. A huge thank you to the Claremore Public Schools Foundation for thoughtful prizes and the perfect party atmosphere to start the year right! 🙌 We’re grateful for inspiring words from Rick Mosier, Board of Education President; Senator Ally Seifried for State Senate; and our incredible keynote speaker, Mr. Michael Bonner, who reminded us of the power we hold to change lives through education. To our teachers and staff, you are the embodiment of our core values: grit, community, innovation, excellence, and purpose. Your energy and dedication are what make CPS a place where students thrive. Here’s to a school year full of growth, impact, and pride. Let’s Win the Day, every day! It’s a great day to be a Zebra!❤️ #CPSZebraPride #WelcomeBack2025 #WinTheDay
4 days ago, CPS Comms.
CPS welcome back rally
CPS welcome back rally
CPS welcome back rally
CPS welcome back rally
CPS welcome back rally
CPS welcome back rally
CPS welcome back rally
CPS welcome back rally
CPS welcome back rally
CPS welcome back rally
It's more than a meal! 6 Reasons to complete the educational benefits application!

1️⃣ Free or reduced breakfast, lunch, and technology fees
2️⃣ Additional funding for technology and internet access
3️⃣ Discounted fees for ACT & AP exams
4️⃣ Helps with the district's state aid funding
5️⃣ Discounted fees associated with college applications
6️⃣ Additional scholarship opportunities, both public and private

Please note: You must re-enroll in this program each year! The application process is open now for the 25-26 school year.
https://claremoreok.infinitecampus.org/campus/portal/claremore.jsp

(If you don't have a Parent Portal account already, you'll need to create one first.)
4 days ago, CPS Communications
Educational Benefits Program graphic
Let’s welcome Sigrid Bowen to the Zebra family in today’s New Teacher Feature!

Mrs. Bowen is joining Claremont Elementary as a Kindergarten teacher. She holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma and a Master’s in Liberal Studies in Administrative Leadership from the University of Oklahoma. With a rich background in education, she has taught nearly every grade from Kindergarten through middle school and has been recognized as Teacher of the Year in two states.

She shared, “Our children are our most precious resource! I want to be the kind of teacher that makes a lasting difference. I hope to teach children to love learning, embrace new challenges, and believe in themselves.”

Mrs. Bowen enjoys:

🎬: You’ve Got Mail
🥔: Chips
🍬: Sour Patch Kids, Tootsie Rolls, Nerd Clusters
🥤: Dr Pepper or iced coffee
🌈: Lavender
📍: Africa

She loves reading, traveling, baking, and DIY projects. Her family includes her husband Robert, who travels the world as a G650 commander for Flexjet, and her daughter Ellyanna, a freshman at Claremore High School and competitive equestrian. Their home is also full of animals—two dogs (Clover and Hudson), a cat (Checkers), a horse (Pip), and several chickens!

Welcome to the Claremore Zebra Dazzle, Mrs. Sigrid Bowen! 🦓🌍 #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
4 days ago, CPS Communications
Mrs. Sigrid Bowen
🦘🎬🦓 #ZebraTravelDiaries

Naomi Lee and her family went down under for an unforgettable two-week adventure in Australia, and the fun didn’t stop there! On their way back home, they made exciting stops in Hollywood, Las Vegas, and the Grand Canyon. 🌏🌟🎰🌄

From kangaroos to canyon views, they brought their Zebra spirit around the world and back again!

Headed out on a summer adventure? Don’t forget your Zebra gear! Send your photos to jbrace@claremore.k12.ok.us to be featured in our #ZebraTravelDiaries.

#CPSZEBRAPRIDE
4 days ago, CPS Communications
zebra traveling
zebra traveling
zebra traveling
zebra traveling
🍎 Welcome to Zebra Nation! 🦓

This week, Claremore Public Schools proudly welcomed 40 new teachers during our annual Zebra Induction Program (ZIP)!

ZIP is more than just an orientation—it’s the first step in connecting our newest educators to the heart of our district’s mission, vision, and values. From learning about district initiatives to building relationships with mentors and colleagues, these passionate professionals are already showing their commitment to grit, community, innovation, excellence, and purpose.

Here’s to a strong start and a great year ahead! We’re so glad you’re here. ❤🦓
#CPSZebraPride
5 days ago, CPS Communications
zebra teacher at ZIP
zebra teacher at ZIP
zebra teacher at ZIP
zebra teacher at ZIP
📚 Claremore Public Schools Staff Excel at Solution Tree PLC Conference

This summer, a team of dedicated Claremore educators, including teachers, counselors, and administrators, joined over 1,600 professionals from across the country at the Solution Tree PLC Conference.

Each participant dove into targeted breakout sessions tailored to their school site’s unique needs, focusing on collaboration, student achievement, and continuous improvement. At the end of each day, the team regrouped to reflect, share strategies, and ensure what they learned could be put into action districtwide.

This commitment to professional learning is a testament to our core value of excellence. Our staff continues to lead with purpose, driven by the belief that every student deserves the best we can offer, every day.

We are proud of our Zebra educators and the work they do to grow, innovate, and lead. 🦓❤️ #CPSZebraPride
5 days ago, CPS Communications
zebra staff at professional development
zebra staff at professional development
zebra staff at professional development
zebra staff at professional development
zebra staff at professional development
Let’s welcome Melissa Hadley to the Zebra family in today’s New Teacher Feature!

Mrs. Hadley is joining Will Rogers Junior High as a 7th Grade Math teacher. She earned her Bachelor of Science from Oklahoma State University and brings with her a wide range of educational experience, having taught in nearly every setting—from homeschool and co-ops to public and private schools.

She shared, “I want to connect with students in order to make a difference in their lives. I want to encourage them, build their confidence, and give them a safe place to be themselves and enjoy learning. Teaching math is a passion of mine, and I’m excited to do it right here in the community where I live!”

Mrs. Hadley enjoys:

📚: The Bible
🎬: The Lord of the Rings & Anne of Green Gables
🥨: Chocolate-covered pretzels, Pringles, Cheddar & Sour Cream Ruffles
🍬: Dark chocolate caramels, Fireballs, Werther’s coffee caramels
🥤: Cherry Limeade & Mocha Frappuccinos
🌈: Ocean turquoise blue
📍: A beach vacation

She’s been married to her husband Brian for 30 years and has four children—three grown sons and a 13-year-old daughter. Fun fact: the Hadleys once owned a coffee shop and loved crafting specialty espresso drinks! Outside of the classroom, she enjoys church ministry, youth leadership, photography, snorkeling, and puzzles—and she shares her home with 10 hens, a rooster, two dogs, and two cats!

Welcome to the Claremore Zebra Dazzle, Mrs. Melissa Hadley! 🦓📘 #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
5 days ago, CPS Communications
Mrs. Melissa Hadley
🩺 Zebra Sports Medicine Ready to Roll!

This week, our student athletic aides got hands-on with training, taping, and teamwork. From ankle wraps to leadership reps, they’ve been preparing behind the scenes, and they’re ready to support our athletes all season long. Way to go, Zebras!💪🏼❤ #cpszebrapride
5 days ago, CPS Communications
sports medicine team
sports medicine team
sports medicine team
sports medicine team
🌋🗽🏛️🦓 #ZebraTravelDiaries

Aiden Baker has been coast-to-coast this summer on an unforgettable adventure! He kicked things off in Hawaii, where he visited Mt. Kilauea and took in stunning waterfalls with his family. 🌴🌋💦

Next stop: the Big Apple! In New York City, Aiden explored iconic spots like Times Square and soaked up the excitement of the city that never sleeps. 🏙️✨

He wrapped up his journey in Washington, D.C., where he toured historic landmarks, including a stop at the White House!🏛️

From volcanoes to monuments, Aiden repped his Zebra pride every step of the way!

Headed out on your own adventure? Don’t forget your Zebra gear! Send your photos to jbrace@claremore.k12.ok.us to be featured in our #ZebraTravelDiaries.

#CPSZEBRAPRIDE
5 days ago, CPS Communications
zebra travel diaires in hawaii
zebra travel diaires in hawaii
zebra travel diaires in new york city
zebra travel diaires in hawaii
zebra travel diaires in hawaii
zebra travel diaires in washington dc
zebra travel diaires in washington DC
volcano
🩺 Zebra Sports Medicine Ready to Roll!

This week, our student athletic aides got hands-on with training, taping, and teamwork. From ankle wraps to leadership reps, they’ve been preparing behind the scenes, and they’re ready to support our athletes all season long. Way to go, Zebras!💪🏼❤ #cpszebrapride
6 days ago, CPS Communications
sports medicine team
sports medicine team
sports medicine team
sports medicine team
Let’s welcome Liz Campbell to the Zebra family in today’s New Teacher Feature!

Ms. Campbell is joining Claremont Elementary as a Kindergarten Special Education teacher. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a Master of Science in Library Media and Information Technology, both from Northeastern State University.

A former Westside teacher, she shared, “I’ve always had a heart for children. School was hard for me and some of my siblings due to neurodiversity, and I knew I wanted to create a classroom where all students feel like they belong and can thrive. I want to encourage my students to be curious and become lifelong learners.”

Ms. Campbell enjoys:

📚: A Wrinkle in Time
🎬: While You Were Sleeping
🍎: Apple with peanut butter
🍬: Toffee & Almond Hershey Nuggets
🥤: Diet Dr Pepper
🌈: Seafoam Green
📍: Kayaking on the Guadalupe River

She loves spending time with her three children—Faith, Ben, and Andrew—each with their own passions and talents. She also enjoys reading, creating art, and plays the violin. Her furry family includes one cat (Rocky) and three dogs: Rex, Timmy, and Elliot!

Welcome to the Claremore Zebra Dazzle, Ms. Liz Campbell! 🦓💚 #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
6 days ago, CPS Communications
Ms. Liz Campbell
🏔️🦓 #ZebraTravelDiaries

Lauren Hamilton (IA at Westside) hit the road with Wyatt (upcoming 2nd grader) and Sawyer (upcoming kindergartener) for a summer adventure to Estes Park, Colorado! 🗺️🚗

While Oklahoma was pushing 100°, the Hamilton crew cooled off in the Rocky Mountains with crisp 60° temps and incredible views. Along the way, they spotted tons of wildlife, chipmunks, elk, marmots, and mule deer! 🐿️🦌🌲

Headed out for your own cool escape? Don’t forget your Zebra gear! Send your photos to jbrace@claremore.k12.ok.us to be featured in our #ZebraTravelDiaries.

#CPSZEBRAPRIDE
6 days ago, CPS Communications
students in colorado
students in colorado
students in colorado
students in colorado
teacher in colorado
These projects may not always be glamorous, but investments in facilities and maintenance are essential to student and community safety.

Superintendent Bryan Frazier, Rogers County Commissioner Dan DeLozier, and Cherokee Nation Tribal Councilman Kevin Easley Jr. (District 14) came together in support of Claremore Public Schools, showing what’s possible when community partners collaborate with purpose.

From improved infrastructure to long-term planning, we’re committed to innovation, excellence, and creating safe, functional spaces where students and the community can come together.

These upgraded spaces aren’t just for school days; they’re the backdrop to Friday night lights, community celebrations, graduation ceremonies, and so many memories still to be made.

Thank you to Rogers County and Cherokee Nation for helping bring these improvements to life!

#CPSZEBRAPRIDE
7 days ago, CPS Communications
community partners
parking lot
parking lot
Let’s welcome Ashleigh Taylor to the Zebra family in today’s New Teacher Feature!

Ms. Taylor is joining Claremore High School as a Science teacher, focusing on Biology. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Science Education from Northeastern State University and is excited to return to the district that shaped her.

A proud Claremore alumna, she shared, “I loved the idea of coming back to give back to the school district that shaped me into who I am today. CPS has always had a strong sense of community, and there’s always someone ready to lend a helping hand.”

Ms. Taylor enjoys:

🎬: Anything Disney
🍬: Reese’s
🥤: Dr Pepper
🌈: Pink
📍: China

In her free time, she loves baking and crafting. During high school, she was a Student Athletic Trainer, and in college, she was an active member of Delta Zeta Sorority, where she served as Vice President for two years.

Welcome home to the Claremore Zebra Dazzle, Ms. Ashleigh Taylor! 🦓🧪 #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
7 days ago, CPS Communications
Ms. Ashleigh Taylor
🏐 VARSITY VOLLEYBALL IS BACK! 🦓

Claremore Volleyball opens the 2025 season with a packed August schedule, from home matchups to tournament action on the road. Let’s go, Lady Zebras!

📅 MONDAY, AUGUST 11
🆚 Victory Christian
📍 HOME ⏰ 10:00 AM

📅 TUESDAY, AUGUST 12
🆚 @ Pryor
📍 Pryor ⏰ 11:00 AM

📅 FRIDAY & SATURDAY, AUGUST 15–16
🏆 Coweta Tournament
📍 Coweta ⏰ Begins at 9:00 AM

#CPSZEBRAPRIDE
7 days ago, CPS Communications
volleyball game day
Congratulations, Mr. T.J. Smith – 2025 Oklahoma Jazz Director of the Year! 🎷🏆

Please join us in celebrating Mr. T.J. Smith, who has been named the 2025 Oklahoma Jazz Director of the Year by the Oklahoma Jazz Educators Association (OKJE)! This prestigious honor recognizes his outstanding achievements and lasting impact on jazz education across the state. 🎶

A Claremore and Verdigris native, Mr. Smith has dedicated the past decade to inspiring young musicians and building championship-level jazz programs—earning 7 superior ratings and 5 state titles at two different schools! Since joining Claremore Public Schools in 2023 as Director of Jazz Studies, he’s worked alongside Mrs. Acord and the incredible CPS staff to build one of the top 5A programs in the state.

Mr. Smith shared:

“I’d like to thank my parents for all of their support, my uncle for his guidance and support in the band world, all of the directors I’ve ever had the privilege of working with, my friends, the CPS administration, and the amazing community of Claremore. It truly is a great day to be a Zebra!”

We are so proud to have a leader like Mr. Smith guiding our students with passion, excellence, and heart. 🎺

#CPSZEBRAPRIDE #JazzDirectorOfTheYear
10 days ago, CPS Communications
Band Director, T.J. Smith
Band Director, T.J. Smith
Band Director, T.J. Smith, looking out at his team.
Let’s welcome Sage Elrod to the Zebra family in today’s New Teacher Feature!

Ms. Elrod is joining Westside Elementary as a 2nd Grade Special Education teacher. She studied Psychology and is certified in Mild/Moderate Disabilities.

Her journey into education is deeply personal. “When I was little, I was in Special Education myself. I had some good teachers that encouraged me. I started working in daycares and knew I wanted to help the kiddos that might have a little harder time learning. After an internship in a Pre-K/Kinder Mild/Moderate classroom, I knew this was exactly what I was meant to do.”

Ms. Elrod enjoys:

🎬: How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days
🧀: Simple Mills Almond Flour Cheese Crackers
🍬: Nerd Clusters or anything sour
🥤: Pepsi, Alani Nu, Celsius, and Arctic Blitz Gatorade
🌈: Turquoise, Rose Gold, and Coral
📍: Colorado or the beach

She loves reading, crocheting, hammocking, fishing, and camping—and she’s the youngest of five siblings with 12 nieces and nephews! Ms. Elrod is also a monthly volunteer in her church’s 3–5-year-old class.

Welcome to the Claremore Zebra Dazzle, Ms. Sage Elrod! 🦓💙 #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
10 days ago, CPS Communications
Ms. Sage Elrod