Congratulations to the 9 Students who
received the Claremore Alumni Association
Scholarships! This honor not only recognizes their
academic excellence but also their involvement in
school!
Congratulations To,
Kaden Salcido sponsored by Class of the 2005 & 2007
Leah Merriman sponsored by the Class of 1910
Lillian Doonkeen and Lex Clark sponsored by the Class
of 1985
Asia Roper and Caden Fox sponsored by Viking
Eleanor Issacs, Edward Alexander, & Aurora Cox
sponsored by the Class of 1969
🏆 Conference Champions! 🏃♀️💨
The Lady Zebras Cross Country team brought the heat and ran away with the conference title! Proud of their grit, speed, and teamwork that led them to the top of the podium. 💪🦓
#CPSZebraPride
The Lady Zebras Cross Country team brought the heat and ran away with the conference title! Proud of their grit, speed, and teamwork that led them to the top of the podium. 💪🦓
#CPSZebraPride
Sweet Subtraction Fun!
Our Claremont students kicked off their subtraction unit with a crowd favorite, sweet math! Armed with a handful of colorful M&Ms, they practiced building subtraction fluency in the tastiest way possible.
This hands-on activity not only reinforced key math skills but also made learning engaging, memorable, and fun! We can’t wait to bring it back throughout the year as students grow in confidence and skills.🦓🍬
#CPSZebraPride
Our Claremont students kicked off their subtraction unit with a crowd favorite, sweet math! Armed with a handful of colorful M&Ms, they practiced building subtraction fluency in the tastiest way possible.
This hands-on activity not only reinforced key math skills but also made learning engaging, memorable, and fun! We can’t wait to bring it back throughout the year as students grow in confidence and skills.🦓🍬
#CPSZebraPride
🚀 What an out-of-this-world opportunity!
Ms. Henry challenged Catalayah and Westside students to shoot for the stars—and Ms. Johnson’s 4th-grade class answered the call! Their hard work earned them an unforgettable visit with Leland Melvin—former NFL player, NASA astronaut, engineer, and education advocate! 🌟🧑🚀
Mr. Melvin shared his incredible story, inspired students with his journey, and reminded them that dreams and determination can take you anywhere—even space! 🌍
🛰️ Fun Facts about Leland Melvin:
The only NFL draftee to ever fly in space!
Logged over 565 hours on two Space Shuttle missions (STS-122 & STS-129)
Famously took his NASA portrait with his rescue dogs, Jake & Scout 🐶
Served as NASA’s Associate Administrator for Education
🙌 Huge thanks to Ms. Henry for organizing such a powerful experience—and to Mr. Melvin for fueling curiosity, courage, and the spirit of exploration in our students.
#CPSZebraPride
Ms. Henry challenged Catalayah and Westside students to shoot for the stars—and Ms. Johnson’s 4th-grade class answered the call! Their hard work earned them an unforgettable visit with Leland Melvin—former NFL player, NASA astronaut, engineer, and education advocate! 🌟🧑🚀
Mr. Melvin shared his incredible story, inspired students with his journey, and reminded them that dreams and determination can take you anywhere—even space! 🌍
🛰️ Fun Facts about Leland Melvin:
The only NFL draftee to ever fly in space!
Logged over 565 hours on two Space Shuttle missions (STS-122 & STS-129)
Famously took his NASA portrait with his rescue dogs, Jake & Scout 🐶
Served as NASA’s Associate Administrator for Education
🙌 Huge thanks to Ms. Henry for organizing such a powerful experience—and to Mr. Melvin for fueling curiosity, courage, and the spirit of exploration in our students.
#CPSZebraPride
Zebra Service in Action! 🦓
Our NJROTC students proudly represented Claremore Public Schools at the Claremore Car Show by lending a helping hand behind the scenes and honoring tradition up front.
They rolled up their sleeves to assist with event setup, including hanging banners, setting up tables, entering data, organizing trophies, and more. To kick off the show, they performed the Color Guard, showcasing their commitment to leadership, discipline, and community.
Their service reflects our Core Values of Purpose, Community, and Excellence in action. Well done, Cadets! 👏
#CPSZebraPride #NJROTC #ServiceAboveSelf #ZebraNation
Our NJROTC students proudly represented Claremore Public Schools at the Claremore Car Show by lending a helping hand behind the scenes and honoring tradition up front.
They rolled up their sleeves to assist with event setup, including hanging banners, setting up tables, entering data, organizing trophies, and more. To kick off the show, they performed the Color Guard, showcasing their commitment to leadership, discipline, and community.
Their service reflects our Core Values of Purpose, Community, and Excellence in action. Well done, Cadets! 👏
#CPSZebraPride #NJROTC #ServiceAboveSelf #ZebraNation
🎭 Break a leg, Zebras!
This past weekend, our talented drama students brought The Wind in the Willows to life with a magical performance for the Claremore community, and they aren't done yet!
Today, they’re taking the show on the road to perform at the OSSAA One-Act Competition at Broken Arrow High School.
Let’s cheer them on as they showcase their hard work, creativity, and passion for the arts. 💫
Good luck, Claremore Drama!
#cpszebrapride
🏐 THREE-PEAT REGIONAL CHAMPS! 🏆
Your Lady Zebra Volleyball Team just made it 3️⃣ in a row as Regional Champions! 🦓💪 They punched their ticket to the STATE TOURNAMENT and are coming in hot!
Let’s go, Zebras — the road to gold continues! 🏐🔥
#CPSZebraPride #StateBound
Your Lady Zebra Volleyball Team just made it 3️⃣ in a row as Regional Champions! 🦓💪 They punched their ticket to the STATE TOURNAMENT and are coming in hot!
Let’s go, Zebras — the road to gold continues! 🏐🔥
#CPSZebraPride #StateBound
ALL-REGION ALERT! 🦓📣
Congratulations to Jordanne Tedesco for being named to the All-Region Cheer Team! 📣❤️
Out of 70+ elite cheerleaders at tryouts, only 17 advanced, and Jordanne was one of them! 🙌 She headed to All-State tryouts last week, and now we wait!
Let’s go, Jordanne! Your Zebra family is cheering you on all the way! 🦓🔥
Drop a 🎉 or 📣 in the comments to show her some love!
#CPSZebraPride | #allregion
Congratulations to Jordanne Tedesco for being named to the All-Region Cheer Team! 📣❤️
Out of 70+ elite cheerleaders at tryouts, only 17 advanced, and Jordanne was one of them! 🙌 She headed to All-State tryouts last week, and now we wait!
Let’s go, Jordanne! Your Zebra family is cheering you on all the way! 🦓🔥
Drop a 🎉 or 📣 in the comments to show her some love!
#CPSZebraPride | #allregion
🧡💛 Claremore Public Schools Celebrates Indigenous Peoples' Day! 🦓
Our city is deeply rooted in Native American history. The first school in Claremore, then Indian Territory, was founded for the children of the Cherokee Nation, with classes held in the old Cherokee Courthouse.
The area's origins trace back to Chief Glahmo, who led his Osage tribe here in 1802. He established a trading post on a mound that French traders called Clermont, meaning “clear mountain.” Over time, he became known as Chief Clermont, a name that eventually evolved into Claremore.
💬 Today, we honor the contributions, culture, and legacy of Indigenous communities across our district and state. Read more at https://www.legendsofamerica.com/ok-claremore/
🧡 Drop your tribal affiliation in the comments to help us celebrate the many voices and stories that make up #CPSZebraPride!
Our city is deeply rooted in Native American history. The first school in Claremore, then Indian Territory, was founded for the children of the Cherokee Nation, with classes held in the old Cherokee Courthouse.
The area's origins trace back to Chief Glahmo, who led his Osage tribe here in 1802. He established a trading post on a mound that French traders called Clermont, meaning “clear mountain.” Over time, he became known as Chief Clermont, a name that eventually evolved into Claremore.
💬 Today, we honor the contributions, culture, and legacy of Indigenous communities across our district and state. Read more at https://www.legendsofamerica.com/ok-claremore/
🧡 Drop your tribal affiliation in the comments to help us celebrate the many voices and stories that make up #CPSZebraPride!
🏐 IT’S REGIONAL GAME DAY!
Claremore Volleyball is hosting the 2025 OSSAA Regional Championship, and the stakes are high!🔥
🎯 ROUND 1
📍 Claremore vs. Nathan Hale
🕓 4:30 PM
🎯 ROUND 2
📍 Pryor vs. Collinsville
🕕 6:00 PM
🎯 CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
🕢 7:30 PM
💵 $7 Admission (Cash Only)
⚠️ No Noisemakers | Respect Sportsmanship
Let’s pack the stands and bring that Zebra energy! 🦓 #CPSZebraPride
Claremore Volleyball is hosting the 2025 OSSAA Regional Championship, and the stakes are high!🔥
🎯 ROUND 1
📍 Claremore vs. Nathan Hale
🕓 4:30 PM
🎯 ROUND 2
📍 Pryor vs. Collinsville
🕕 6:00 PM
🎯 CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
🕢 7:30 PM
💵 $7 Admission (Cash Only)
⚠️ No Noisemakers | Respect Sportsmanship
Let’s pack the stands and bring that Zebra energy! 🦓 #CPSZebraPride
🍁 REMINDER - FALL BREAK IS NEXT WEEK🍁
CPS will be closed for FALL BREAK on October 16-17, 2025. Enjoy the time with your family, make a memory, and we will see you on Monday, October 20th.
Need something to do? Show your #CPSZEBRAPRIDE and support our 🏈 Varsity Football @ Collinsville on the 16th.
CPS will be closed for FALL BREAK on October 16-17, 2025. Enjoy the time with your family, make a memory, and we will see you on Monday, October 20th.
Need something to do? Show your #CPSZEBRAPRIDE and support our 🏈 Varsity Football @ Collinsville on the 16th.
⚽ Hall of Fame Spotlight: Gentry Detter Stafford
From the moment Gentry Detter Stafford stepped onto the field as a Claremore Zebra, she stood out as a fierce competitor, a determined student, and a natural leader.
During her time at Claremore High School, Gentry was a four-year All-District soccer player and earned All-State honors her senior year after an incredible 22-goal season in 2003. Her leadership extended beyond the scoreboard. In 2000, she was selected by the OSSAA to attend the Leading Together Sportsmanship Conference in Indianapolis, representing Claremore among the state’s top young athletes. In addition to her soccer success, she lettered in cross country her sophomore and junior years and qualified for state as a junior.
A standout both on and off the field, Gentry graduated as a Valedictorian and served on Student Council all four years, including as Vice President her senior year.
Her success continued at the collegiate level, where she left an indelible mark on Oral Roberts University (2003–2006). Gentry was a two-time Mid-Con Defensive Player of the Year (2004, 2005), a four-time All-Conference selection, and helped lead ORU to its first-ever NCAA Tournament appearance in 2004, scoring the game-winning goal and earning Mid-Con Tournament MVP honors. She still holds the school record for career assists (25) and ranks among ORU’s best for single-season assists, tying the record with 10. In 2006, she finished 9th in the nation in assists per game, a testament to her vision, teamwork, and relentless drive.
Gentry graduated from ORU with honors and was actively involved in ORU Missions, continuing her commitment to leadership and service.
Gentry and her husband, Kyle Stafford, are proud parents of two boys, Dex and Knox, and remain deeply rooted in Claremore, where they actively serve in their community. #cpszebrapride
From the moment Gentry Detter Stafford stepped onto the field as a Claremore Zebra, she stood out as a fierce competitor, a determined student, and a natural leader.
During her time at Claremore High School, Gentry was a four-year All-District soccer player and earned All-State honors her senior year after an incredible 22-goal season in 2003. Her leadership extended beyond the scoreboard. In 2000, she was selected by the OSSAA to attend the Leading Together Sportsmanship Conference in Indianapolis, representing Claremore among the state’s top young athletes. In addition to her soccer success, she lettered in cross country her sophomore and junior years and qualified for state as a junior.
A standout both on and off the field, Gentry graduated as a Valedictorian and served on Student Council all four years, including as Vice President her senior year.
Her success continued at the collegiate level, where she left an indelible mark on Oral Roberts University (2003–2006). Gentry was a two-time Mid-Con Defensive Player of the Year (2004, 2005), a four-time All-Conference selection, and helped lead ORU to its first-ever NCAA Tournament appearance in 2004, scoring the game-winning goal and earning Mid-Con Tournament MVP honors. She still holds the school record for career assists (25) and ranks among ORU’s best for single-season assists, tying the record with 10. In 2006, she finished 9th in the nation in assists per game, a testament to her vision, teamwork, and relentless drive.
Gentry graduated from ORU with honors and was actively involved in ORU Missions, continuing her commitment to leadership and service.
Gentry and her husband, Kyle Stafford, are proud parents of two boys, Dex and Knox, and remain deeply rooted in Claremore, where they actively serve in their community. #cpszebrapride
What a way to celebrate Homecoming! 🏆 Juniors took the title for Float Building, and Seniors claimed the Spirit Stick- way to show that Zebra pride! 🦓#CPSZEBRAPRIDE
Zebra Friday🤠
📌Disclaimer: These photos are the property of Claremore Public Schools and may not be altered, redistributed, or used on other accounts. Please share only directly from the official Claremore Public Schools platform and communications. #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
🏈 YOU KNOW WHAT DAY IT IS… IT’S ZEBRA GAME DAY! 🦓🔥
Tonight, it’s the Highway 20 Rivalry. It’s Claremore vs. Pryor. It’s CYFA Night. It’s Military Night. Wear your RED, bring the noise, and show Pryor what Zebra Pride looks like.
📍: Legendary Lantow Field
📆: Thursday, October 10
⏰: Kickoff @ 7:00 PM
🎖: CYFA & Military Recognition
📸 Don’t forget to tag us in your game night pics!
🎥 If you can’t make it, catch the livestream on ZTV.
https://youtube.com/live/qHfKo4pG7_Q?feature=share
🚫 Reminder: No large bags, backpacks, or outside food permitted.
Let’s protect the home turf and #BEATPRYOR 💪🏼
#CPSZebraPride #WinTheDay #Highway20Rivalry #RedOut
Tonight, it’s the Highway 20 Rivalry. It’s Claremore vs. Pryor. It’s CYFA Night. It’s Military Night. Wear your RED, bring the noise, and show Pryor what Zebra Pride looks like.
📍: Legendary Lantow Field
📆: Thursday, October 10
⏰: Kickoff @ 7:00 PM
🎖: CYFA & Military Recognition
📸 Don’t forget to tag us in your game night pics!
🎥 If you can’t make it, catch the livestream on ZTV.
https://youtube.com/live/qHfKo4pG7_Q?feature=share
🚫 Reminder: No large bags, backpacks, or outside food permitted.
Let’s protect the home turf and #BEATPRYOR 💪🏼
#CPSZebraPride #WinTheDay #Highway20Rivalry #RedOut
🎉 REGIONAL CHAMPS, PUNCHED OUR TICKET TO STATE! 🥎
The Claremore Lady Zebras showed up and showed out last night at regionals, grabbing TWO big wins over Shawnee (5-0 & 10-3) and earning their way to the 2025 OSSAA State Tournament!
💥 Big plays. Lockdown defense. Unmatched grit.
📍 State info coming soon — stay tuned, Zebra Nation!
The Claremore Lady Zebras showed up and showed out last night at regionals, grabbing TWO big wins over Shawnee (5-0 & 10-3) and earning their way to the 2025 OSSAA State Tournament!
💥 Big plays. Lockdown defense. Unmatched grit.
📍 State info coming soon — stay tuned, Zebra Nation!
❤️ Hall of Fame Spotlight: Joe Freeman — “Uncle Joe”
Born on March 31, 1936, in Claremore to John and Donie Freeman, Joe graduated from Claremore High School in 1954. After graduation, he went to work for Bells Confectionary on Main Street and began writing weekly sports stories for the Claremore Progress, capturing the excitement and pride of his beloved Claremore Zebras. His passion for Zebra athletics was evident even then, long before it became his legacy.
Over the years, Joe’s work life took him many places, from managing the Cardinal Lounge and the Elks Lodge to returning home to Claremore Schools, where he served as a custodian and substitute teacher. But no matter his title, Joe was best known for his unwavering support of Claremore students.
A true sports enthusiast, Joe’s love of athletics extended far beyond Claremore. His home was a museum of sports devotion, filled with newspaper clippings, autographed balls, photos, and letters from coaches and players. Whether wearing his Detroit Tigers cap (he swore it made him look like Magnum P.I.), his Duke Blue Devils hoodie, or a throwback Dallas Cowboys jacket, Joe was always ready to talk sports.
But nothing compared to his Zebra pride. His wardrobe overflowed with Claremore red, and his memorabilia chronicled decades of local athletic history, from state championship hats to programs from every sport. If the Zebras were playing, Joe was there. Varsity or JV, home or away, Zebras or Lady Zebras, Uncle Joe was in the stands.
He was a constant source of encouragement, greeting players after every game with either congratulations or a few words of comfort. For Joe, supporting Claremore athletes wasn’t a pastime; it was a calling. His dedication, kindness, and unshakable loyalty made him a beloved figure in the Zebra community.
Today, we celebrate Joe Freeman’s induction into the Claremore Public Schools Hall of Fame, honoring not just his love of the game but his lifelong commitment to the students, coaches, and teams who made Claremore home.
Once a Zebra, always a Zebra.❤ #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
Born on March 31, 1936, in Claremore to John and Donie Freeman, Joe graduated from Claremore High School in 1954. After graduation, he went to work for Bells Confectionary on Main Street and began writing weekly sports stories for the Claremore Progress, capturing the excitement and pride of his beloved Claremore Zebras. His passion for Zebra athletics was evident even then, long before it became his legacy.
Over the years, Joe’s work life took him many places, from managing the Cardinal Lounge and the Elks Lodge to returning home to Claremore Schools, where he served as a custodian and substitute teacher. But no matter his title, Joe was best known for his unwavering support of Claremore students.
A true sports enthusiast, Joe’s love of athletics extended far beyond Claremore. His home was a museum of sports devotion, filled with newspaper clippings, autographed balls, photos, and letters from coaches and players. Whether wearing his Detroit Tigers cap (he swore it made him look like Magnum P.I.), his Duke Blue Devils hoodie, or a throwback Dallas Cowboys jacket, Joe was always ready to talk sports.
But nothing compared to his Zebra pride. His wardrobe overflowed with Claremore red, and his memorabilia chronicled decades of local athletic history, from state championship hats to programs from every sport. If the Zebras were playing, Joe was there. Varsity or JV, home or away, Zebras or Lady Zebras, Uncle Joe was in the stands.
He was a constant source of encouragement, greeting players after every game with either congratulations or a few words of comfort. For Joe, supporting Claremore athletes wasn’t a pastime; it was a calling. His dedication, kindness, and unshakable loyalty made him a beloved figure in the Zebra community.
Today, we celebrate Joe Freeman’s induction into the Claremore Public Schools Hall of Fame, honoring not just his love of the game but his lifelong commitment to the students, coaches, and teams who made Claremore home.
Once a Zebra, always a Zebra.❤ #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
Big Congratulations to Our Outstanding Choir Students! 🎶👏❤️
Please join us in celebrating the incredible achievements of our talented Claremore singers!
🎤 Jaden VonAschen, Hadley Smith, and Reese Nichols were selected to perform with the Northeastern Oklahoma Choral Directors Association All-District Choir! They’ll join other talented students from across the region to showcase their voices and represent Claremore with pride. 🎶
We are so proud of these students for their dedication, talent, and hard work. Way to represent Claremore with excellence and heart! 🦓✨
#CPSZEBRAPRIDE
Please join us in celebrating the incredible achievements of our talented Claremore singers!
🎤 Jaden VonAschen, Hadley Smith, and Reese Nichols were selected to perform with the Northeastern Oklahoma Choral Directors Association All-District Choir! They’ll join other talented students from across the region to showcase their voices and represent Claremore with pride. 🎶
We are so proud of these students for their dedication, talent, and hard work. Way to represent Claremore with excellence and heart! 🦓✨
#CPSZEBRAPRIDE
Get ready for an unforgettable night of music! 🎤❤️
Join us at the Robson Performing Arts Center for the 2025 Fall Choir Concert and experience the incredible talent of our Claremore Choir students!
🕕 Doors open: 6:40 PM
🎟️ Tickets: $5.00 — available at the door, sold by the Choir Boosters
Our students have been working hard to prepare a show that’s sure to inspire, entertain, and showcase their passion for music. Don’t miss your chance to see these talented Zebras shine on stage! 🌟
#CPSZEBRAPRIDE #ClaremoreChoir
Join us at the Robson Performing Arts Center for the 2025 Fall Choir Concert and experience the incredible talent of our Claremore Choir students!
🕕 Doors open: 6:40 PM
🎟️ Tickets: $5.00 — available at the door, sold by the Choir Boosters
Our students have been working hard to prepare a show that’s sure to inspire, entertain, and showcase their passion for music. Don’t miss your chance to see these talented Zebras shine on stage! 🌟
#CPSZEBRAPRIDE #ClaremoreChoir
🏆 Hall of Fame Spotlight: 1992–1993 Claremore High School Varsity Cheer
The 1992–1993 Claremore High School Varsity Cheer team made history, not once but twice, by bringing home both State and National Championships in consecutive years.
In June 1992, the varsity squad of 15 athletes earned a bid to compete in the National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) Championship in Dallas, Texas. Facing 178 teams from across the country and all school classifications, the Zebras rose to the top with an impressive score of 406 points, defeating the runner-up team from Grapevine, Texas, by a decisive 10-point margin.
Their success didn’t stop there. The team captured back-to-back OSSAA Class 4A State Championships (1992 & 1993) and another NCA National Championship in 1993, cementing their legacy as the only Claremore team in history to win consecutive State and National titles.
The 1992–1993 CHS Varsity Cheer Team was coached by Pat Hecksher and Evette Wood Barham.
Coach Hecksher, a former Oklahoma State University cheerleader (1977–1979), began coaching in Claremore in 1988 and played a pivotal role in forming Oklahoma’s governing body for competitive cheer in 1992. She was later inducted into the Oklahoma Cheer Coaches Association (OCCA) Hall of Fame in 2022.
Coach Barham, a 1991 CHS graduate, cheered for Claremore from 1988–1991 and was a member of the 1990 OSSAA Class 4A Regional and State Champion Cheer team.
Team Members:
Jackie Amos Clement • Rashell Attebury Leslie • Angel Brock Ray • Janette Hemphill Saroka • Gina Johnson Bennett • Danielle Larabee Fraser • Julie LeFlore Hayward • Julie McGehee Watson • Michelle Adams Eaton • Sara Robertson Stockinger • Tabitha Stout Parker • Claire Tanner Kornmeyer • Michelle Townsend Brown • Mandie Wiley Blenden • Tiana Wood Nichols
🏅 Be sure to visit the National Champion exhibit honoring this historic team at the Claremore Museum of History! #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
The 1992–1993 Claremore High School Varsity Cheer team made history, not once but twice, by bringing home both State and National Championships in consecutive years.
In June 1992, the varsity squad of 15 athletes earned a bid to compete in the National Cheerleaders Association (NCA) Championship in Dallas, Texas. Facing 178 teams from across the country and all school classifications, the Zebras rose to the top with an impressive score of 406 points, defeating the runner-up team from Grapevine, Texas, by a decisive 10-point margin.
Their success didn’t stop there. The team captured back-to-back OSSAA Class 4A State Championships (1992 & 1993) and another NCA National Championship in 1993, cementing their legacy as the only Claremore team in history to win consecutive State and National titles.
The 1992–1993 CHS Varsity Cheer Team was coached by Pat Hecksher and Evette Wood Barham.
Coach Hecksher, a former Oklahoma State University cheerleader (1977–1979), began coaching in Claremore in 1988 and played a pivotal role in forming Oklahoma’s governing body for competitive cheer in 1992. She was later inducted into the Oklahoma Cheer Coaches Association (OCCA) Hall of Fame in 2022.
Coach Barham, a 1991 CHS graduate, cheered for Claremore from 1988–1991 and was a member of the 1990 OSSAA Class 4A Regional and State Champion Cheer team.
Team Members:
Jackie Amos Clement • Rashell Attebury Leslie • Angel Brock Ray • Janette Hemphill Saroka • Gina Johnson Bennett • Danielle Larabee Fraser • Julie LeFlore Hayward • Julie McGehee Watson • Michelle Adams Eaton • Sara Robertson Stockinger • Tabitha Stout Parker • Claire Tanner Kornmeyer • Michelle Townsend Brown • Mandie Wiley Blenden • Tiana Wood Nichols
🏅 Be sure to visit the National Champion exhibit honoring this historic team at the Claremore Museum of History! #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
