Claremore Public Schools

📣 SIGNED! 🦓💙💛 Congratulations to Zoie Vasquez on officially signing to continue her cheerleading career at Oral Roberts University! 📣🦅 Zoie has been a consistent presence on the sidelines and a dedicated member of the Claremore cheer program. Now, she’ll bring that same energy to the collegiate level. We’re proud of you, Zoie, and excited to see all you’ll accomplish at ORU! #CPSZEBRAPRIDE | #ZebraCheer

🎓#15 Salutatorian – Avery Bowlby ➡Next Steps: Oklahoma State University 📚Field of Study: Biochemistry 🦓Zebra Since: Pre-K 🔴 What advice would you give your freshman self? "I would tell myself not to let the bad times keep you down, and keep going. Enjoy every moment, because everything comes to an end so fast. Take every opportunity that comes your way, even if it is out of your comfort zone. Everything happens for a reason." 🔴 Through my journey to becoming a salutatorian, "This journey has taught me the importance of responsibility, whether it be for school assignments or personal choices. Throughout high school I have learned to take ownership of my choices, time, and actions. Responsibility is about staying committed even when motivation fades. I strive to be the kind of person others can rely on - not just when its easy, but especially when it counts." 🔴 What are you most proud of in your high school career? "I am most proud of winning State in FFA for my Agriscience project. Winning State had always been a huge goal of mine, so when I did win with my partner, I felt so proud and ecstatic." 🔴 What were the hardest challenges you overcame to achieve this honor? "Finding the motivation to keep coming to school and do my assignments was a great struggle for me, especially this past year. Balancing academics with everything else felt overbearing at times, but it took everything in me to finish strong." 🔴 What does this accomplishment mean to you? "Becoming salutatorian is a great achievement for me. It is a reflection of the dedication, hard work, and late nights I have poured into these past four years. I am honored and grateful to be counted among the many amazing students who have achieved this as well." 🔴 Looking back on your school experience at CPS, what does being a Zebra mean to you? "Being a Zebra means so much more than just attending CPS. It means showing up to support one another and showing heart and Zebra pride in everything we do." 🔴 What elementary staff member impacted your life most, and how? "I went to Roosa for elementary and Mrs.Kropp had the biggest impact on me during my time there. If you know Mrs.Kropp, then you know how amazing and out going she is. She has an explosive personality, and that made me want to be more extraverted." 🔴 What junior high staff member impacted your life most, and how? "I went to Will Rogers Junior High, and Mrs.Boyd was my science teacher. She sparked my love and interest in science. She encouraged me to be curious and always be the one to ask questions." 🔴 What high school staff member made the most significant impact on your life, and how? "All of the teachers and staff at Claremore High School are exceptional and amazing in every way, but there is one teacher who stands out above all, which is Mr.Riggs. His immense passion for the medical field inspires anyone he teaches or talks to. I am extremely grateful to have had him as a teacher for all of the biomedical classes. His class gave me the confidence to believe that my dream of becoming a doctor can turn into reality. He instilled in us that no matter the obstacle, we have the strength to overcome it if we stay focused and never give up." 🔴 What activities have you been involved in? "AP / Pre-AP Programs;Chemistry Club;Concurrent;FFA;National Honor Society;SkillsUSA;Work Experience / Shadow / Internship (Career Development Program)" 🔴 What is the one thing you will absolutely take with you to college? "My best friends, they are my ride or dies. We travel as a quiver." 🔴 Scholarships "- OSU Academic Excellence Joseph Fleming Memorial Scholarship" 🔴 Awards and Honors "- 1st at FFA State for Agriscience (2024) 3rd at FFA State for Agriscience (2023) Qualified for State through SkillsUSA (2024, 2025)" 🔴 Anything else you'd like to add... "I thank Jesus and my parents for the immense support and guidance they have given me along the journey." #cpszebrapride

Happy #SchoolPRDay! 🎉 Today, on the second Friday of May, we celebrate @NSPRA National School Communicators Day, dedicated to the talented individuals who craft our school’s narratives, share our triumphs, and keep everyone connected. Today, we shine the spotlight on those who work magic behind the screens, behind the lens, behind the stories! Whether they’re known around here as the "Facebook guru," "website wizard," "bossy lady," or "school paparazzi,"—you get the picture (catch that pun 📷). Each title just scratches the surface of their many talents. Thank you to everyone who helps us connect, communicate, celebrate, and cultivate a strong partnership with our CPS families and community. Here’s to the stories we tell and the memories we cherish! And to the unsung heroes of our team - our staff, students, interns, and the community, for your contributions. Your vibrant #CPSZEBRAPRIDE is the heartbeat of our storytelling. We couldn’t weave these wonderful tales without your fantastic photos, lively updates, and engaging content. 📷 Jamie Brace - Executive Director of Communications 📷 Chloe Zickefoose - District Communications Specialist 📷 Zong Moua - District Comms/Multimedia Specialist 📷 Asia Roper - CHS Intern 📷 Grace Waters - CHS Intern 📷 Rachel Salcido - Catalayah Elementary Cadre’ 📷 Tia Henson - Claremont Elementary Cadre’ 📷 Mary Kropp - Roosa Elementary School Cadre’ 📷 Lauren Hamilton - Westside Elementary Cadre’ 📷 Melissa Jauquet - Will Rogers Junior High Cadre’ 📷 Meranda Golbek - Claremore High School 📷 Andrea Chapman - Fine Arts Cadre’ So rock that #CPSZEBRAPRIDE

🎓#16 Salutatorian – Jaiden Kerstetter 🎓#16 Salutatorian – Jaiden Kerstetter ➡Next Steps: RSU - Honors Program 📚Field of Study: Chemical Engineering 🦓Zebra Since: 10th Grade 🔴 What advice would you give your freshman self? "Everything changes. No matter what you do or what you think. Some moments will come to define who you are, and they will build your character. In the end, you decide who you are and who you get to be." 🔴 Through my journey to becoming a salutatorian, "I'm a lot more determined than I thought I was. Going into high school, I wasn't sure what I wanted to do or who I wanted to be. I just went with anything that came my way. But at some point, I started to take initiative and start making goals. Because of that, I changed as a person entirely. No matter what happens, anyone can complete their goals with enough determination." 🔴 What were the hardest challenges you overcame to achieve this honor? "By far, procrastination. Procrastination destroys determination in it's entirety. I have no idea where I would be if I never got my work done." 🔴 What does this accomplishment mean to you? "I believe getting salutatorian is another step in my journey, another chapter in my book. It's a goal that I can always look back on and be proud of. It's a reminder that I've achieved and done something. To me, it means there's still more to do." 🔴 Looking back on your school experience at CPS, what does being a Zebra mean to you? "A zebra means getting a group of friends, and an elite task force of penguins, to escape New York's Central Park zoo with. We'll follow our dreams of living in the plains of Madagascar, only to change them and start an Afro circus in Europe." Read more at https://www.claremore.k12.ok.us/article/2198017

🦓❤️🎓 COUNTDOWN TO GRADUATION — 9 Days brought to you by The Crums! Mr. Ed Crum is an Assistant Principal at Roosa Elementary, and Mrs. Jennifer Crum is a School Psychologist at Claremont Elementary. Reflecting on Campbell’s school years, they shared, “There are many fond memories, but we cannot overemphasize the impact that academic team, engineering, musicals, and jazz choir have had on both of our children.” A major highlight was the high school academic team winning the 5A State Academic Bowl Championship during Campbell’s senior year. Campbell acknowledges several influential teachers who helped shape his journey: Mr. Cummings, Mrs. Steidley, Mrs. Garroute, Mrs. Coyle, Mr. Doonkeen, Mrs. Hammock, and Mr. Noland, among many others who have had a profound impact on him. A Zebra since Pre-K, Campbell has attended Westside Elementary and Claremore High School. He has been an active member of the Academic Team and is also involved in choir, Math Club, NTC, SkillsUSA, SAGA, and Young Democrats. When asked what he’ll remember most about his time at CPS, Campbell said, “I’ll remember the amazing teachers who not only gave me an excellent education but showed me true compassion, especially Mr. Cummings and his storytelling.” A favorite shared memory for Ed, Jennifer, and Campbell is the lasting impression of the educators who went above and beyond, creating a supportive and enriching experience throughout his time in Claremore Public Schools. It has been a fun and unforgettable 13 years for Campbell as a proud Zebra! #CPSZebraPride

🎾 STATE GAME DAY | LLUVIA DIAZ MADRIGAL 🦓🔥 Today, Lluvia Diaz Madrigal represents Claremore Tennis at the OSSAA 5A State Tournament in Oklahoma City! After a strong 4th-place finish at Regionals, Lluvia is stepping onto the biggest stage in high school tennis, ready to compete with focus, grit, and Zebra pride. 📍 Oklahoma City 🗓️ Friday, May 9 🏆 5A State Tennis Tournament ⏰ All Day Best of luck, Lluvia, we’re proud of you! 🖤❤️ #CPSZEBRAPRIDE | #ZebraTennis | #StateBound

Step right up to the Roosa Wax Museum! Our students brought history to life by dressing up as famous Oklahomans and sharing stories from their incredible lives. From athletes to activists, inventors to entertainers, these living statues impressed with their knowledge and creativity!🦓🤠 #RoosaRocks #CPSZEBRAPRIDE

Are you a person who pursues excellence with a desire to make an impact in the lives of students? Look no further! We have incredible job opportunities waiting just for you. We offer excellent benefits and a fun team environment, but the real perk of working at Claremore Public Schools is being part of a community that values your work, encourages lifelong learning, and fosters a supportive culture. Whether you're an experienced teacher, para-professional, support staff, or starting your career, we have a place for you to thrive and grow! Current Open Positions… https://www.claremore.k12.ok.us/page/career-opportunities-at-cps Claremore High School 🌟Chemistry/ Biology Position (main emphasis is Chemistry) 🌟Business Education 🌟Engineering CATALAYAH 🌟Sped Teacher 🌟Para (2) ROOSA 🌟5th grade teacher CLAREMONT 🌟3rd grade WRJH 🌟Math

Attention Zebras! Our Lady Zebra Soccer Team has advanced to the Quarterfinals of the State Playoffs and will host Duncan tomorrow at 7:00 PM at Lantow Field! To help pack the stands and bring the energy, we’re offering FREE admission and FREE pizza to the first 40 students who arrive! The only catch? You’ve got to sit in the student section and be loud and proud for our girls! Let’s show up and support the Lady Zebras as they continue their playoff run!

🎾 STATE BOUND! 🦓🏆 Congratulations to Lluvia Diaz Madrigal on her 4th-place finish in 2 singles at the 5A Regional Tennis Tournament! Lluvia’s performance has earned her a spot at the OSSAA State Tennis Tournament in Oklahoma City this Friday, May 9. Best of luck, Lluvia, we’re proud of your hard work and can’t wait to cheer you on at State! 💪🎾 #CPSZEBRAPRIDE | #ZebraTennis | #StateBound

🦓❤️🎓 COUNTDOWN TO GRADUATION — 10 Days brought to you by the Arthurs! Ms. Traci Arthurs has been a paraprofessional at Claremore High School for four years. Reflecting on Lydia’s school years, she fondly recalls, “She won a reading award for reading the most books in her 5th-grade year at Catalayah. They gave her a set of autographed books.” Traci also expressed gratitude to Mrs. James, the librarian at Catalayah, and Mr. J for their encouragement and support. A proud Zebra since 2nd grade, Lydia has attended Catalayah Elementary, Will Rogers Junior High, and Claremore High School. When asked what she’ll remember most about her time at CPS, Lydia shared, “The teachers encouraging me to follow my passion for reading, and my mom helping me get around the school. How nice and helpful the staff was.” She shares A special memory with her mom: "Finding out my mom started working at the high school.” It has been a fun and unforgettable 13-year journey for Lydia as a Zebra! #CPSZebraPride

⚾️ BASEBALL REGIONALS 🦓🏆 Regional play begins TODAY as our Zebra Baseball Team hosts Nathan Hale in the first round—right here at home! 📍 Claremore High School 🆚 Nathan Hale ⏰ 11:00 AM (subject to change due to weather) 🎫 Admission: 💳 $7 on GoFan | 💵 $10 at the gate (OSSAA Playoff pricing – no passes accepted) Let’s fill the stands and support our Zebras as they begin their road to State! Let's go get it, Zebras! #CPSZEBRAPRIDE | #ZebraBaseball | #RoadToState

🎉 A huge shoutout to our 1st Annual Junior Chef Competition CHAMPION — Maisy Navarro from Roosa Elementary! 👩‍🍳🏆 Maisy wowed the judges with her out-of-this-world Snicker Salad — seriously, we couldn’t put our forks down! 🤤 She snagged a sweet prize: a picnic basket kit and some epic yard games, just in time for summer fun! ☀️🌳 Every one of our young culinary stars brought their A-game! 🌟 All participants walked away with a medal and a bag full of goodies — and let’s be real, the food? Chef’s kiss 🤌✨ Endless thanks to our amazing Zebra Nutrition Staff and superstar judges for making this event unforgettable. We couldn’t have done it without you! ❤️👏 #CPSZEBRAPRIDE #JuniorChefCompetition

🎨✨ CHS Art Show – Now Open at the Robson PAC! Stop by the Robson Performing Arts Center during business hours this week to experience the creativity and talent of our Claremore High School student artists! 🖼️ From detailed drawings to innovative mixed media, this showcase highlights the imagination, skill, and hard work our students pour into their art. Celebrate their accomplishments and support the arts at CHS! 🗓️ Open all week | 📍 Robson PAC | 🕘 8:00am-4:00pm #CPSZebraPride #CHSArtShow

Earlier this week, Chef Ryan presented our high school students with some mouthwatering enchiladas! 🎉 Bold flavors, vibrant colors, and a whole lot of spice in every bite! ✨ #CPSZEBRAPRIDE #EnchiladaFiesta

🦓❤️🎓 COUNTDOWN TO GRADUATION — 11 Days brought to you by Shea and Maddox! Mrs. Shea Vickrey has been a nurse at Catalayah Elementary for six years. Reflecting on Maddox’s time in Claremore Public Schools, she shared that some of their favorite memories have come from his years on the wrestling team. As a starter for the wrestling team since his freshman year, Maddox earned 100 varsity career wins, placed 3rd at the State Tournament as a senior, and celebrated winning Districts as a team to have a Dual State Runner-Up finish. His growth and achievements on and off the mat have made his CPS journey both meaningful and memorable for them. Shea also expresses gratitude to two impactful educators. She shares that Mrs. Lee, now principal at CHS, was Maddox’s junior high English teacher and consistently pushed him to do his best. Once she became principal, her role shifted; she became one of Maddox’s most prominent supporters, always ready to offer encouragement, academic guidance, and a listening ear when he needed it most. Shea also recognizes Coach Chad Willard as a key mentor in Maddox’s life. In addition to coaching, he has modeled discipline and hard work in the wrestling room and everyday life. A Zebra since 5th grade, Maddox has attended Roosa, Will Rogers Junior High, and Claremore High School. He is a wrestling team member and is involved in SkillsUSA and NTC. When asked what he’ll remember most about CPS, Maddox said, “Getting 3rd at wrestling state and my mom cheering at all my events.” It has been a fun and unforgettable seven years for Maddox as a proud Zebra! #CPSZebraPride

These next two weeks, we will celebrate 22 salutatorians and 4 Valedictorians. The path to this honor is rigorous, and we are proud of their commitment to achieving these academic standards. They exemplify our core values: GRIT - COMMUNITY - INNOVATION - PURPOSE - EXCELLENCE. 🎓❤ VALEDICTORIAN and SALUTATORIAN CANDIDATE POLICY ● Candidate must have successfully completed graduation requirements with all coursework at or above grade level. ● Candidate must have attained a 4.0 weighted grade point average (GPA) or better by the end of the third block of senior year. ● Candidate must have completed 8 units of weighted courses (Honors, Pre-AP or AP) from four (4) of the following curriculum areas: Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Studies, Science, World Language, and/or Fine Arts. ● Of these 8 units, the candidate must have completed a minimum of four AP courses from three different curriculum areas. ● Candidate must have received no final grade lower than a ‘B’ in any course (exception: ‘C’s’ in AP courses, which are equivalent to a ‘B’) ● ACT score must be 26 or greater, or meet all 4 benchmarks set by ACT for senior year (National Test Only), or SAT score of 1240 or greater. This requirement must be met before the end of Block III of the senior year.

🎓 Aeros Awards of Excellence Honors CHS Student and Staff The Aeros Awards of Excellence recognize individuals across Oklahoma who go above and beyond to lead with resilience, serve their communities, and inspire those around them. This year, Claremore Public Schools is proud to celebrate not one, but two, remarkable honorees who embody these values. CHS Senior, Cooper Zickefoose, has been named one of the first-ever Aeros Awards Student Scholarship recipients, sponsored by Edwards & Patterson Law Firm . Cooper will receive $1,000. Cooper was nominated for his strong character, perseverance, and positive influence on those around him. In addition to Cooper’s recognition, CHS Assistant Principal Meranda Golbek was named a Top 30 statewide finalist for her extraordinary impact in the classroom. Her commitment to student growth and academic success continues to make a lasting impact at Claremore High School. The Aeros Awards celebrate those who rise above challenges and lead with purpose, qualities that Cooper and Ms. Golbek demonstrate daily. Please join us in congratulating them both on this honor!🎓❤ #CPSZebraPride #AerosAwards

✨🏰 Roosa Elementary’s Fairy Tale Ball was a magical success! 🏰✨ Dreams came true as students, staff, and families stepped into a world of wonder at our Fairy Tale Ball. The gym was transformed into a sparkling kingdom where princes, princesses, kings and queens danced the night away! 💃🕺 A huge thank you to our amazing staff who brought this fairy tale to life. Your creativity, time, and heart made the night unforgettable! 👏💖 To all our little royals, you are the heart of this story and we’re so proud of each of you. 🌟 #RoosaFairyTaleBall #CPSZEBRAPRIDE

PSA - Please be advised, there will be a fireworks display immediately following the Claremore High School graduation ceremony on May 18th, 2025. Graduation will begin at 7:30 PM and should conclude between 9:00 PM and 9:30 PM