🎨🎶 Happy National Arts in Education Week! 🎭🎺

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
5 months ago, CPS Communications
Band on Patriot Day
Band Camp 2025
Junior High Drama Class
Junior High Drama Class Performance
Elementary Music Class
Elementary Music Class
Junior High Beginners Choir
Junior High Beginners Choir
High School Art Class
High School Drama Class
Let’s welcome Nellie Fouse to the Zebra family in today’s New Staff Feature! 🦓💙

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
5 months ago, CPS Communications
Mrs. Nellie Fouse
🏐 1,000 Assists for Grace! 🎉
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!
5 months ago, Comms Intern
Volleyball team picture on the court with Grace
Grace and Madison celebrating
Grace and Madison celebrating

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!”

5 months ago, CPS Communications
Edward Alexander
Melody Youtsey
Elissa Holcomb
Arleigh Williams
Help us welcome Sharla Hepler to the Zebra family in today’s New Staff Feature! 🦓❤️

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
5 months ago, CPS Communications
Ms. Sharla Hepler

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

5 months ago, CPS Communications
game day graphic
YOU KNOW WHAT DAY IT IS... ZEBRA FRIDAYYYYYY💪🏼🦓 #cpszebrapride
5 months ago, CPS Communications
band students
football player
dance team
volleyball team
softball players
cheerleaders
band students
xc runners
dance team
football player
🏃‍♂️ RECORD-BREAKING RUNS AT RSU 🔥

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
5 months ago, CPS Communications
xc record breakers
Claremore High School’s NJROTC, under the leadership of Captain Ron Rutan, hosted our annual Patriot Day Ceremony at historic Lantow Field to remember the tragic events of September 11, 2001. This ceremony honored the heroes who served in the aftermath and paid tribute to those who lost their lives that day.

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
5 months ago, CPS Communications
Claremore High School N.J.R.O.T.C. Color Guards
Claremore High School N.J.R.O.T.C. Color Guards
Claremore High School N.J.R.O.T.C.
Claremore High School N.J.R.O.T.C.
Claremore High School Marching Band
Claremore High School Students in the stands
Patriot Day Speakers
Claremore High School N.J.R.O.T.C.
Claremore High School N.J.R.O.T.C.
Claremore Police Officers
Let’s give a warm Zebra welcome to Mrs. Shaye Watson in today’s New Staff Feature! 🦓❤️

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
5 months ago, CPS Communications
Ms. Shaye Watson
🥇 ZEBRA XC RACE DAY 🦓

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
5 months ago, CPS Communications
XC meet day graphic
XC meet day graphic
Find all your answers on our ALL THINGS HOMECOMING webpage.

📅 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
5 months ago, CPS Communications
zebra van in road sign
Let’s welcome Megan Callen to the Zebra family in today’s New Staff Feature!

Mrs. Callen joins Will Rogers Junior High as a Special Education teacher. She earned her degree in History and her Master’s in Special Education, both from the University of Arizona.

When asked what excites her about Claremore, she shared:
“I am so excited about this new year. I love all of the murals in the Jr. High.”

Mrs. Callen enjoys:
📚: Mysteries
🎬: A League of Their Own
🍿: Popcorn
🍬: Peanut M&Ms
🥤: Vanilla Coke
💙: Blue
☀️: Quiet and warm places
⚾: Watching baseball—she’s an Atlanta Braves fan, but loves watching any baseball live!

Her family includes her husband, Kyle (who just accepted a position as assistant professor at RSU), and their two children, Ezri (6th grade) and Ronin (8th grade). At home, they also have three cats—Ferda, Willow, and Lily.

Her motivation for teaching is inspiring:
“I want students to get to senior year and have choices. We are building a choice-filled future.”

Welcome to Claremore, Mrs. Callen—we are thrilled to have you on our team! 🦓❤️ #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
5 months ago, CPS Communications
Ms. Megan Callen
🥎 GAME WEEK: ZEBRA SOFTBALL
Our Varsity squad is back in action with two matchups this week!

📅 TUESDAY, SEPT. 9
🆚 Bishop Kelley
📍 HOME
⏰ JV @ 5:00 PM | Varsity to follow

📅 THURSDAY, SEPT. 11
🆚 @ NOAH
📍 Away
⏰ Varsity @ 6:30 PM
Let’s go, Zebras! Bring the heat. 💥
#CPSZebraPride | #ZebraSoftball | #ZebraNation
5 months ago, CPS Communications
softball game day
🎨✨ Our World History students took a walk through the Renaissance last week, without ever leaving campus! They visited a replica art show featuring masterpieces by Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, and more. From realistic human figures to the use of perspective and proportion, students explored how these groundbreaking artists redefined creativity and influenced the world. 🖌️

Learning history hits different when you can see it come to life!
#CPSZebraPride #HistoryInAction #ZebraNation
5 months ago, CPS Communications
history students
history students
history students
🚨🐛 Emergency on Deck! Fred the Worm was in trouble!
His boat flipped, his life preserver was trapped, and things were looking grim... until Mrs. Ritter’s 5th-grade heroes stepped in!

Armed with only paperclips and teamwork, students worked in small groups to Save Fred, and they nailed it! 🙌 This hands-on STEM challenge delivered big lessons in problem-solving, collaboration, communication, and maybe even a little future engineering. Plus… lots of laughter. 😄
#CPSZEBRAPRIDE
5 months ago, CPS Communications
students working on a STEM project
students working on a STEM project
students working on a STEM project
students working on a STEM project
students working on a STEM project
students working on a STEM project
students working on a STEM project
students working on a STEM project
students working on a STEM project
Loud crowds, good vibes, and plenty of Zebra pride.❤🦓💪🏼📣
#CPSZebraPride #ZebraNation
5 months ago, CPS Communications
spirit stick winners
teacher with mascot
pep assembly
pep assembly
teacher with zebs
njrotc students
pep assembly
pep assembly
pep assembly
Let’s welcome Carleigh Sherman to the Zebra family in today’s New Staff Feature!

Ms. Sherman joins Westside Elementary as a 4th grade ELA and Social Studies teacher. She earned her degree in Global Business from Troy University and has experience teaching science, hydroponics, and running after-school clubs such as Garden Club and Outdoor Classroom. She also worked with Food on the Move to design curriculum for hydroponics courses at the middle and high school levels.

When asked what drew her to CPS, she shared:
“I like the community feel of CPS. I love how much families are involved in their children’s education and how the school is involved with the community.”

Ms. Sherman enjoys:
📚: John Dies at the End by Jason Pargin & Haunted by Chuck Palahniuk
🍬: M&M’s
🥤: Dr. Pepper
🎨: Gardening, art, reading, and playing music (mainly bass and ukulele)
💛: Yellow
🌴: Beach vacations

Family is important to her—she has a 3-month-old son, and her fiancé, Paul Tucker, is also part of the Zebra family as Westside’s EL teacher! At home, they also care for three dogs (a Chihuahua, Pitbull, and Shih Tzu Terrier) and an aquatic turtle.

Some fun facts about Ms. Sherman:
🌱 She ran a community garden at her previous school in Tulsa Public Schools.
✍️ She has published a small poetry book.
🌟 She was active in leadership and honor societies in college, including serving as president of her university’s Spectrum Alliance for three years.

Her motivation for teaching is simple but powerful:
“I’m very passionate about learning. With teaching, I get to learn from my students just as much as they learn from me. I also enjoy working with others and getting the chance to potentially brighten someone’s day.”

Welcome to Claremore, Ms. Sherman—we are so excited you’re here! 🦓❤️ #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
5 months ago, CPS Communications
Ms. Carleigh Sherman
GAME WEEK: ZEBRA VOLLEYBALL

Two big matchups this week as Claremore Volleyball continues to bring the energy and execution on the court!

📅 TUESDAY, SEPT. 9
🆚 Coweta
📍 HOME
⏰ 7th Grade @ 4:30 PM | Varsity to follow
🎥 ZTV link: https://youtube.com/live/k_43DczTnOc?feature=share

📅 THURSDAY, SEPT. 11
🆚 @ Tahlequah
📍 AWAY
⏰ 7th Grade @ 4:00 PM | Varsity to follow

Let’s pack the gym and show that #ZebraPride! 🦓💥
#CPSZebraPride | #ZebraVolleyball | #GameWeek
5 months ago, CPS Communications
game day graphic
📚🏠 At Claremore, family doesn’t stop at home; it continues in our classrooms, hallways, and hearts. We’re proud to partner with parents, caregivers, and staff to create a supportive environment where every child can thrive.
#CPSZebraPride
5 months ago, CPS Communications
zebra families
zebra families
zebra families
zebra families
zebra families
zebra families
zebra families
zebra families
zebra families