🦓McKenzie Boyer
Representing: FFA
Other student activities involved in: TSA, NASA
What are your future plans? “I plan to attend OSU to double major in Agricultural Communication and Animal Science, then attend the University of Arkansas for a law degree in Agricultural Law.”
What is your favorite part about being a Zebra? “The school environment and how amazing the people are.”
🦓William Driscoll
Representing: FFA
Other student activities involved in: Skills USA
What are your future plans? “My plans after high school are to go to OSUIT for higher education in diesel mechanics.”
What is your favorite part about being a Zebra? “The incredible energy that this school brings to all the events.”
🦓Mason Buckingham
Representing: Improv
Other student activities involved in: Theater, Dead Poets Society, Speech and Debate, FCA
What are your future plans? “I plan to become a bodybuilder and a physical therapist.”
What is your favorite part about being a Zebra? “I love how easy it is to try new things and find a club or organization you love, and how accepting they are.”
🦓Rin Carroll
Representing: SAGA
Other student activities involved in: Young Democrats, Art Club
What are your future plans? “I plan on going to college and graduating to become a therapist for teenagers like me, and doing art commissions in my spare time.”
What is your favorite part about being a Zebra? “The friends I made throughout my time at school and the social experiences I had along the way.”
📣 OSSAA CHEER REGIONALS 🦓
Our Zebra Cheerleaders are hitting the mat at OSSAA Regionals, where precision, power, and performance take center stage. 🏆💪
📍 Stroud High School
📆 Saturday, September 20
🕑 Performance Time: 1:55 PM
From stunts and pyramids to jumps and tumbling, this competition showcases the athleticism, synchronization, and spirit that define competitive cheer.
Let’s go, Zebras! We’re cheering YOU on all the way! 🦓📣
#CPSZebraPride | #ZebraCheer
The arts are a cornerstone of what makes Claremore Public Schools so special. We’re proud of all we’ve accomplished so far, but we’re even more excited for the challenges ahead and the new heights our students will reach! 🦓✨
It truly is a GREAT day to be a Zebra! ❤
#CPSZEBRAPRIDE
Mrs. Meyers is joining Catalayah Elementary as the Librarian. She earned her degree from Oklahoma State University—Go Pokes! and is currently pursuing her Library Media degree at East Central University.
When asked why she chose CPS, she shared:
“I love the people! Even as an outsider moving to Claremore, everyone at Catalayah welcomed our family with open arms. From parent to PTO volunteer to para to librarian, at every level the school has been supportive and encouraging of mine and my family's needs, wants, and dreams.”
Mrs. Meyers enjoys:
📚: The Book With No Pictures & The Wizard of Oz
🍟: Chips and dip
🍫: Payday
🥤: Dr. Pepper
🌈: Green
📍: Traveling, concerts, and trying new restaurants
Her family includes her husband, Jake, and their three daughters—Davis (5th), Mattie (3rd), and Talon (1st). Their home is full of love (and energy!) with three dogs: Bullet, Hugo, and Gem.
Welcome to the Claremore Zebra Dazzle, Mrs. Karisa Meyers! 🦓💚 #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
🦓Lillian Doonkeen
Representing: Christian Club
Other student activities involved in: Band, TSA, Biomed Club, NHS
What are your future plans? “I’m keeping my options open, but I plan to go to college and figure it out along the way.”
What is your favorite part about being a Zebra? “The experience. Growing up in Claremore, I’ve been able to cheer at games, make memories with friends, and be part of all the traditions that make our school spirit stand out.”
🦓Eleanor Isaacs
Representing: Cross Country
Other student activities involved in: NHS, FUZE, Biomed, Track, Cross Country
What are your future plans? “I plan to go to college and pursue a degree in the medical field.”
What is your favorite part about being a Zebra? “All the opportunities we are given in academics, sports, and clubs to grow and learn what we're passionate about.”
🦓Rambo Meadows
Representing: FCCLA
Other student activities involved in: N/A
What are your future plans? “I want to go to college and advance my education, going on to culinary school and eventually becoming a chef.”
What is your favorite part about being a Zebra? “I enjoy the strong sense of community and how much of a cool collective it is.”
🦓McKenzie Copeland
Representing: Dance
Other student activities involved in: Biomed Club, Math Club
What are your future plans? “I want to go to OU and major in Sonography.”
What is your favorite part about being a Zebra? “Being surrounded by people who support and inspire you.”
Our Zebra Football team heads to Muskogee for a Friday night showdown under the lights! Let’s pack the stands, rep the red, and bring the energy to Hilldale! 📣
📍: Away @ Hilldale High School – Muskogee, OK
📆: Friday, September 19th
⏰: Kickoff @ 7:00 PM
🚫 Don’t forget — sportsmanship matters.
🎥 Can’t make it? Catch the action on ZTV
🔗 Watch Live —
Let’s show ‘em what Zebra Tough looks like!
#ZebraFootball | #CPSZebraPride
Claremore Cross Country hits the course bright and early this Friday at the Pryor Invitational! It’s race day, and our Zebras are ready to compete with grit, pace, and pride.
📅 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19
📍 Pryor
⏰ Start Time: 8:00 AM
Let’s go, Zebras! 🦓💨
#CPSZebraPride | #ZebraXC
We are incredibly grateful for your support and hope you’ll continue championing our arts programs and everything we do to help students grow, learn, and thrive. Together, we can create meaningful opportunities and lasting memories for every Zebra!
#CPSZEBRAPRIDE
Mr. Nadal is joining Will Rogers Junior High as a 6th Grade Science Teacher. He earned degrees in Arts and Science from Northeastern State University.
When asked why he chose CPS, he shared:
“This is a great opportunity for me to give back to MY community. CPS is part of the community I call home—it’s a chance to be close to family and give back all at the same time.”
Mr. Nadal enjoys:
🎣: Fishing & camping
🥋: Teaching self-defense & firearm safety
🥜: Cracked black pepper sunflower seeds
🥤: Cherry Limeades & Coke Zero
🎨: Purple
📍: Any place with water—beach, lake, or river
His family includes his wife, who also teaches at WRJH, and his two grown daughters, both graduates of Sequoyah High School. He also comes from a long line of educators—his mom taught at Westside, his dad at Sequoyah, one brother teaches at Verdigris, another teaches online at SDI, and his wife teaches right alongside him at WRJH.
Welcome to the Claremore Zebra Dazzle, Mr. Dwight Nadal! 🦓💜 #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
🦓Seth Jimenez
Representing: Biomed Club
Other student activities involved in: Football
What are your future plans? “I plan on going to college into a pre-dental program, then attend OU School of Dentistry.”
What is your favorite part about being a Zebra? “All the opportunities that are available. Whether you're a bookworm or an athlete, CPS has it.”
🦓Katara Wyrick
Representing: Book Club
Other student activities involved in: Cheer, STUCO, FCA, Christian Club
What are your future plans? “I want to continue my career in education and eventually become an elementary teacher.”
What is your favorite part about being a Zebra? “I love the community and all the new friends I’ve gained through this school and its organizations.”
🦓Kanyon Jax Dearden
Representing: Choir
Other student activities involved in: Marching Band, Jazz Band, Concert Band, Biomed Club
What are your future plans? “After high school, I plan to attend Northeastern State University and pursue a degree in instrumental music education. Music has always been a huge part of my life, and I’m excited to turn that passion into a career. I hope to inspire future students the same way my band instructors have inspired me!”
What is your favorite part about being a Zebra? “How welcoming everyone is. Claremore has such a warm and friendly vibe. I actually started out at Sequoyah, but I transferred here in 4th grade. From the moment I walked into Catalayah, I was welcomed with open arms — like I’d been a Zebra all along!”
🦓Brylee Green
Representing: Cheer
Other student activities involved in: NTC
What are your future plans? “I’m going to do the 13th Year Program at Pryor Tech to get my LPN, then go to sonography school at TCC.”
What is your favorite part about being a Zebra? “All the school spirit and how welcoming everything is.”
🎓 SENIOR NIGHT SPOTLIGHT 🥎
Join us tonight as we celebrate the incredible senior athletes who’ve led with heart, hustle, and Zebra pride!
📍 HOME vs. Sapulpa
🎉 5:15 PM Senior Night Ceremony
🕔 5:30 PM Game Time
These seniors have given their all to the program, and we’re proud to celebrate everything they’ve accomplished in a Zebra uniform. 🦓💪
Come early. Cheer loud. Celebrate big.
#ZebraSoftball | #SeniorNight | #CPSZebraPride
Rebekah Verges is a para at Roosa and a brand new mom! This makes two little zebras in our dazzle this school year.
Rebekah and Hunter welcomed Bradley Lane on August 8th. He entered the world at 7 pounds and 1 ounce. Welcome to the Zebra family, Bradley! 🦓
#CPSZEBRAPRIDE #classof2043 💙🩷
From Pre-K through elementary, our students explore the joys of art and music each week. They create, sing, dance, and play instruments while developing creativity, teamwork, and confidence. With hands-on projects and performances, every student has the chance to express themselves and shine in the arts!
Junior high students explore art and music through hands-on, creative experiences. They develop skills in drawing, design, performance, and digital music creation while learning to express themselves and collaborate with others. From creating original artworks to performing in band, choir, and music technology projects, every student has the chance to grow, shine, and share their talents.
At Claremore High School, students explore a wide range of creative opportunities in visual arts, music, theater, dance, and speech. From beginner to advanced courses, students develop skills in performance, composition, design, and production while expressing themselves and collaborating with others. Opportunities include concerts, competitions, performances, and portfolio development, preparing students for college-level study and lifelong artistic growth. Whether painting, singing, acting, or composing, every student has the chance to shine in the arts!
We are so proud of our Fine Arts program and the incredible students who make it shine. Our goal is to provide a space where they can explore their creativity, develop new skills, and prepare for a bright future—both in the arts and beyond.
Here’s to nurturing talent, imagination, and confidence in every Zebra!
#ArtsEdWeek #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
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
