Let’s welcome Emily McCollough to the Zebra family in today’s New Staff Feature!
Mrs. McCollough is joining Will Rogers Junior High as a 6th Grade Geography Teacher. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Education, Middle School Education – Social Studies from Missouri Southern State University.
When asked about teaching, she shared:
“I have known since I was a little girl that I wanted to teach. As I grew older it became obvious this would be the profession I would pour into—not for myself, but for the kids. I desire and pray that I can be a light to everyone, but especially my students. I hope to mentor them to be as successful as possible, not only in my classroom but for the rest of the world to see!”
Mrs. McCollough enjoys:
📚: The Bible and The Four Loves by C.S. Lewis
🎬: The Breakfast Club
🍬: Nerd Clusters
🥤: Water or Alani Nu
🎨: Lavender
📍: Anywhere in the mountains
Her family includes her husband, Foster McCollough, whom she just married in June, and their sweet dog, Mia Moo. Emily also loves spending time with her nieces, friends, family, and church family. In her free time, she enjoys running, crocheting, and being very involved with her church youth group.
Welcome to the Claremore Zebra Dazzle, Mrs. Emily McCollough! 🦓💜 #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
This year, 67 students were selected to represent their club, sport, or organization during homecoming. This week, we will introduce you to our 2025 Homecoming Representatives. 🦓❤👑
🦓Lonnie Gray
Representing: Academic Team
Other student activities involved in: SAGA, World Language Club, Drama
What are your future plans? “I plan to attend Harvard University and become a neurosurgeon. I would also like to participate in research developing cures for Alzheimer’s Disease or dementia.”
What is your favorite part about being a Zebra? “The opportunity it gives me. I can be involved in my community in so many ways, and it has opened so many doors for me and helped build a solid foundation for my future.”
🦓Kimberly "Paige" Brower
Representing: Art Club
What are your future plans? “In the future I am going to become a behavioral therapist. I want to be able to be of support and assist others with issues they may deal with on their own.”
What is your favorite part about being a Zebra? “Being able to interact and connect with other students. Making new friends here is always exciting.”
🦓Gabriel Carroll
Representing: Marching Band
Other student activities involved in: Improv
What are your future plans? “I plan to attend OSU for music education and eventually direct bands myself.”
What is your favorite part about being a Zebra? “I enjoy getting to participate in the music programs and meet new people.”
🦓Sophia Ortiz
Representing: Marching Band
Other student activities involved in: Jazz Band, Pre-Engineering
What are your future plans? “To go to Pitt State University for Automotive Technologies.”
What is your favorite part about being a Zebra? “The community. I have met so many lovely, unique, and welcoming people here at Claremore, and made many connections with both my classmates and teachers.”
When we think of the arts, we often think of the fun and creativity they bring (and they are a blast!), but the impact goes so much deeper. The arts prepare students with skills that last a lifetime and transfer directly to the workforce: communication, problem solving, teamwork, and confidence. 💡
Unfortunately, not all communities have equal access to arts programs. That’s why National Arts in Education Week exists—to shine a light on these inequities and inspire action so every student has the chance to experience the arts.
📊 Here are some powerful facts about Arts in Education:
- Students in arts programs sharpen critical skills that employers value most—like writing, problem solving, and collaboration.
- Low-income students who participate in afterschool dance programs show higher self-esteem and stronger social skills.
- Arts-integrated schools see students with better academic outcomes, higher motivation, and deeper engagement.
- In a study conducted in Tennessee, arts students outperformed their peers academically—47% reached literacy proficiency (vs. 36% schoolwide), and 46% reached math proficiency (vs. 35%).
The evidence is clear: arts education transforms lives. Let’s continue advocating for access to the arts in all communities and ensure every student has the chance to thrive. 🦓❤️
Learn more about how you can take action here: https://bit.ly/4mYaxKd
#ArtsEdWeek #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
Mrs. McDade is joining Roosa Elementary as a 5th Grade Math Teacher. She earned her degree in Elementary Education from Cameron University, graduating cum laude and earning placement on the Dean’s Honor Roll. She was also a member of Kappa Delta Pi.
When asked why she chose this path, she shared:
“I teach because every student deserves to have someone who believes in them.”
Mrs. McDade enjoys:
📚: Harry Potter
🎬: Harry Potter movies
🥩: Beef Jerky
🍫: Snickers
🥤: Alani Nu or Diet Dr. Pepper
🎨: Sage Green
📍: Exploring different National Parks
Her family includes her husband, Ryan, and their three boys—Adakyn (5), Kaedyn (3), and Daxtyn (1). Adakyn just started Kindergarten at Roosa this year! Their family is outdoorsy and often spends weekends at the dirt track riding and racing dirt bikes. They also share their home with a boy dog named Delta.
Welcome to the Claremore Zebra Dazzle, Mrs. Gabbi McDade! 🦓💚 #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
This year, 67 students were selected to represent their club, sport, or organization during homecoming. This week, we will introduce you to our 2025 Homecoming Representatives. 🦓❤👑
🦓Asia Roper
Representing: Girls Basketball
Other student activities involved in: CPS District Communications Internship, National Honor Society, Student Council, Young Democrats, Track, World Language Club, and BioMed Club
What are your future plans? “I plan to go to college to play basketball. I want to major in either communications or political science and minor in photography.”
What is your favorite part about being a Zebra? “The opportunities available.”
🦓Nolan Reed Sherl
Representing: Basketball
What are your future plans? “I plan to pursue playing collegiate basketball and continue my education toward becoming a teacher and coach.”
What is your favorite part about being a Zebra? “The community. It’s special to be a part of a community that supports its students and athletes. I’m proud to play for a program that’s bigger than myself.”
🦓Amaeli Claire Foster
Representing: Softball
Other student activities involved in: NHS, FCA, Native American Club
What are your future plans? “To attend and play college softball at SCU (Southwestern Christian University) and to go into the medical field.”
What is your favorite part about being a Zebra? “Knowing that I always have people standing by my side and knowing that I represent something special.”
🦓Gabriella Garcia
Representing: Wrestling
Other student activities involved in: Wrestling, Softball, Slowpitch, STUCO, FCA, Fuze, Jesus Club, Christian Club
What are your future plans? “My plans for the future are to either be a pediatric ER nurse or a criminal psychologist.”
What is your favorite part about being a Zebra? “The community and friendships, the school spirit, all the opportunities we have, the support and belongings, and sports.”
Two big away matchups are on deck this week as our Claremore Varsity squad continues to battle through the season with grit and focus.
📅 TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16
🆚 @ Verdigris
⏰ 7th | Varsity – 4:30 PM
📅 THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18
🆚 @ Broken Arrow
⏰ 9th | JV | Varsity – 4:30 PM
Let’s go, Zebras! Time to bring the energy and show what Zebra Volleyball is all about. 🔥
#CPSZebraPride | #ZebraVolleyball | #GameWeek
🥎 GAME WEEK: STACKED AT HOME & ON THE ROAD 🦓
The Lady Zebras head into a packed week with big home matchups, including Senior Night, and a weekend road trip to the Piedmont Festival!
📅 TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16
🆚 NOAH (HOME)
⏰ Varsity – 6:30 PM
📅 THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18
🆚 Howe (HOME)
⏰ 5:30 Varsity
🎓 Senior Night 5:15PM
📅 FRIDAY–SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19–20
🏟️ Piedmont Festival (AWAY / Overnight)
F - 11:45AM vs Tuttle and 3:30 PM vs Piedmont
S - 8:30 AM vs Piedmont, 10:00 AM vs Mustang, and 11:45 AM vs Edmond
Whether at home or on the road, Zebra Softball is ready to compete.
#CPSZebraPride | #ZebraSoftball
This week we’re shining a spotlight on the power of the arts in our schools. From music and theater to visual and performing arts, these programs aren’t just electives—they’re essential. Research and lived experiences show the arts build confidence, creativity, and connection, shaping learners who carry these skills for a lifetime.
At Claremore, we see firsthand how the arts bring joy, growth, and pride to our students. Throughout the week, we’ll be sharing stats, facts, and highlights from our incredible Fine Arts programs to celebrate their impact on our district.
Join us in recognizing and supporting the arts, not just this week but all year long—because every student deserves access to transformative, creative experiences. ❤️
#CPSZEBRAPRIDE #ArtsEdWeek
Mrs. Fouse is joining Will Rogers Junior High as a 7th Grade Math Teacher. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education and Math for Teaching Certification from Westminster College in Utah. Before returning to education, she spent the last nine years in banking, where she started as a teller and worked her way into the loan side as a back-office worker.
When asked why she chose this path, she shared:
“I have wanted to be a math teacher since I was in 7th grade. I want to instill my love and passion for mathematics in all of my students’ academic careers. I hope to inspire students to do their best and never give up when things get hard. Every person can achieve anything when they are willing to work for it.”
Mrs. Fouse enjoys:
📚: Shadow and Bone Trilogy by Leigh Bardugo
🎬: The Wedding Singer
🍟: Chips
🍫: KitKat, Twix, Heath Bar
🥤: Sonic Strawberry Slush & Cherry Limeade
📍: Fishing for salmon in Alaska
Her family includes her husband and their three rowdy boys—one in college, one going into 3rd grade, and one starting Kindergarten. At home, they also have a sweet, old dog named Annabell, and she helps take care of her son’s pet lizard, Treeko.
Welcome to the Claremore Zebra Dazzle, Mrs. Nellie Fouse! 🦓💙 #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
Last night we celebrated an incredible milestone as Grace hit 1,000 career assists — a true testament to her leadership and dedication on the court.
💪To top it off, the volleyball team secured their 5th consecutive win with a big victory over Coweta!
💯🙌Congrats, Grace — your hard work and heart continue to inspire!
This year, 67 students were selected to represent their club, sport, or organization during homecoming. This week, we will introduce you to our 2025 Homecoming Representatives. 🦓❤👑
🦓Edward Alexander
Representing: Native American Student Association
Other student activities involved in: Robotics, Improv, NHS, Skills USA, NTC, and RSU
What are your future plans? “I plan to study Electrical Engineering at OSU.”
What is your favorite part about being a Zebra? “The teachers here not only teach, but they make us feel heard and seen. Shout out to Ms. Lahr, Mrs. Higgins, Mr. Cummings, Mr. Isenbart, Mr. Z, Mrs. Hammock, Mrs. Steidley, and Mrs. Coyle.”
🦓Melody Youtsey
Representing: SAGA
Other student activities involved in: Art Club, EAST at NT
What are your future plans? “I want to get a master's degree or above (hopefully at MIT) and become a genetics researcher.”
What is your favorite part about being a Zebra? “It's definitely the friends I've made, as well as the opportunity to participate throughout the years and lead SAGA.”
🦓Elissa Holcomb
Representing: SADD
Other student activities involved in: WLC, Improv, FCCLA, and Biomed
What are your future plans? “To become a child psychiatrist.”
What is your favorite part about being a Zebra? “The teachers who've encouraged me and provided a multitude of opportunities for me, as well as the friendships I've gained.”
🦓Arleigh Williams
Representing: Improv
Other student activities involved in: World Language Club, NTHS, Young Democrats
What are your future plans? “I plan on going to OSU and getting my degree in zoology so that I can be an Animal Care Technician for a wildlife center.”
What is your favorite part about being a Zebra? “That no matter what, you always have a sense of community. Whether this is your first year being a Zebra or you’ve been one your whole life, there’s always a place for you in a club, sport, or organization!”
Mrs. Hepler joins Claremore High School as a Special Education Co-Ed PE Teacher, Para, and Head 8th Grade Girls Basketball Coach. She earned her Bachelor of Science from Northeastern State University after beginning her education at Connors State College and earning her Physical Therapist Assistant license from Tulsa Community College. Before joining CPS, she worked as a Physical Therapist Assistant for 13 years.
When asked what drew her to Claremore, she shared:
“I really like the small-town feel and the friendly, close community that comes with it. This is our home, our family, and our community!”
Family is central to Mrs. Hepler’s life. She and her husband, Matthew (a CHS graduate who owns and operates his own business in Claremore), are raising four children: Tate (Junior at the University of Central Oklahoma (CHS grad)), Zane (Sophomore at Oklahoma State University (CHS grad)), Sveta (6th grade student at Justus-Tiawah), and Zeke (5th grade student at Westside Elementary). At home, the Heplers also care for three dogs (Sky, Sadie, Milo) and a cat named Wipeout.
Favorites:
🎬 Hacksaw Ridge & I Can Only Imagine
🍦 Ice cream
🍫 Snickers or Milk Duds
🥤 Water or Sprite
🎨 Colors: Pink & Red
🌍 Travel: Antigua, Guatemala
🏈 Dallas Cowboys & Indiana Fever
✨ Quote: “You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.” – Philippians 4:13
Her motivation for teaching is heartfelt:
“My goal is to bring an open mind, a positive attitude, and high expectations to the classroom each day. I want to pass on the knowledge, love, and compassion that I received through school, which gave me the confidence to reach my goals throughout my life.”
Welcome to Claremore, Mrs. Hepler—we’re so glad you’re home! 🦓❤️ #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
FNL GAME DAY | ZEBRAS vs. MUSTANGS 🏟️
Friday night lights return to Lantow Field as Claremore kicks off its home slate against the Oologah Mustangs!
📅 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12
🏅 Night of Champions Ceremony – 6:30 PM
🕖 Kickoff – 7:00 PM
📍 Lantow Field – Claremore High School
🎥ZTV Link - https://youtube.com/live/CsSdaLLPvx4?feature=share
Join us as we celebrate our champions from last year and set the tone for an unforgettable season. Let’s pack the stands and show what Zebra Nation is all about. 💪🏼📣
#CPSZebraPride | #FridayNightLights
Last week at the RSU Distance After Dark meet, our Zebra Cross Country team lit up the course, literally and historically.
🔥 Carter Gibson shattered the Claremore High School 5K record, clocking an astonishing time of 15:57.
🔥 Gabe Rodriguez wasn’t far behind, securing the third fastest time in school history with a strong 16:24 finish.
This duo continues to raise the bar for Zebra XC—and the season’s just getting started. 🦓💨
#ZebraDistance | #RecordBreakers | #CPSZebraPride
Lantow Field itself stands as a reminder of sacrifice, named after the Lantow brothers—local heroes who served with valor, with two giving their lives in WWII. Their legacy, and the memory of 9/11, inspire us to uphold the values of unity, honor, courage, sacrifice, duty, loyalty, bravery, and patriotism.
We will never forget. ❤️🤍💙
#PatriotDay #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
Mrs. Watson is teaching 4th Grade ELA at Roosa Elementary. She earned her Elementary Education degree from the University of Oklahoma and began her teaching career in 2019. She has taught 1st, 2nd, and now 4th grade.
When asked why she chose Claremore, she shared:
“I chose this school district to come home and give back to the community that shaped me and made me who I am today.”
She loves CPS for its strong sense of community, family-like atmosphere, and the passionate teachers who helped shape her into the person she is today.
Mrs. Watson enjoys:
📚 Uninvited by Lysa TerKeurst
🎬 Cinderella Story
🧀 Cheese-Its
🍬 Gummies
🥤 Vanilla Dr. Pepper
💖 Pink
✈️ Greece
🏈 The University of Oklahoma
Her family includes her husband, Tre (CHS Class of 2012), their 15-month-old daughter, Kennedy, and twin boys on the way this January. They also have a sweet Labradoodle, Charlie Mae.
Her teaching mission is powerful:
“I teach to reach the kids others may not believe in, giving them the hope and confidence to know they are worthy, capable, and smart.”
We are so excited to have you back home, Mrs. Watson! Welcome to the Zebra family! 🦓❤️ #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
Time to lace up and lock in! Our Claremore Cross Country team is headed to Muskogee for another chance to push the pace and chase PRs.
📅 THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11
📍 Hatbox Field – Muskogee
⏰ Start Time: 3:45 PM
Focused. Fast. Fearless. Let’s run, Zebras! 🏃♂️🏃♀️
#ZebraXC | #CPSZebraPride | #RaceDayReady
📅 Calendar of events
👕Shirt sales close 9/18
🎈 Parade
👑Representatives / Courtn
🏈Game Info (Tickets/Protocols)
🧳Dress Up Days
🏆Athletic Hall of Fame
🎓Alumni Asso. Luncheon and Reunions
❓Who to contact
AND MORE...https://www.claremore.k12.ok.us/o/chs/page/homecoming
