🏔️🦓 #ZebraTravelDiaries

Lauren Hamilton (IA at Westside) hit the road with Wyatt (upcoming 2nd grader) and Sawyer (upcoming kindergartener) for a summer adventure to Estes Park, Colorado! 🗺️🚗

While Oklahoma was pushing 100°, the Hamilton crew cooled off in the Rocky Mountains with crisp 60° temps and incredible views. Along the way, they spotted tons of wildlife, chipmunks, elk, marmots, and mule deer! 🐿️🦌🌲

Headed out for your own cool escape? Don’t forget your Zebra gear! Send your photos to jbrace@claremore.k12.ok.us to be featured in our #ZebraTravelDiaries.

#CPSZEBRAPRIDE
about 1 month ago, CPS Communications
students in colorado
students in colorado
students in colorado
students in colorado
teacher in colorado
These projects may not always be glamorous, but investments in facilities and maintenance are essential to student and community safety.

Superintendent Bryan Frazier, Rogers County Commissioner Dan DeLozier, and Cherokee Nation Tribal Councilman Kevin Easley Jr. (District 14) came together in support of Claremore Public Schools, showing what’s possible when community partners collaborate with purpose.

From improved infrastructure to long-term planning, we’re committed to innovation, excellence, and creating safe, functional spaces where students and the community can come together.

These upgraded spaces aren’t just for school days; they’re the backdrop to Friday night lights, community celebrations, graduation ceremonies, and so many memories still to be made.

Thank you to Rogers County and Cherokee Nation for helping bring these improvements to life!

#CPSZEBRAPRIDE
about 1 month ago, CPS Communications
community partners
parking lot
parking lot
Let’s welcome Ashleigh Taylor to the Zebra family in today’s New Teacher Feature!

Ms. Taylor is joining Claremore High School as a Science teacher, focusing on Biology. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Science Education from Northeastern State University and is excited to return to the district that shaped her.

A proud Claremore alumna, she shared, “I loved the idea of coming back to give back to the school district that shaped me into who I am today. CPS has always had a strong sense of community, and there’s always someone ready to lend a helping hand.”

Ms. Taylor enjoys:

🎬: Anything Disney
🍬: Reese’s
🥤: Dr Pepper
🌈: Pink
📍: China

In her free time, she loves baking and crafting. During high school, she was a Student Athletic Trainer, and in college, she was an active member of Delta Zeta Sorority, where she served as Vice President for two years.

Welcome home to the Claremore Zebra Dazzle, Ms. Ashleigh Taylor! 🦓🧪 #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
about 1 month ago, CPS Communications
Ms. Ashleigh Taylor
🏐 VARSITY VOLLEYBALL IS BACK! 🦓

Claremore Volleyball opens the 2025 season with a packed August schedule, from home matchups to tournament action on the road. Let’s go, Lady Zebras!

📅 MONDAY, AUGUST 11
🆚 Victory Christian
📍 HOME ⏰ 10:00 AM

📅 TUESDAY, AUGUST 12
🆚 @ Pryor
📍 Pryor ⏰ 11:00 AM

📅 FRIDAY & SATURDAY, AUGUST 15–16
🏆 Coweta Tournament
📍 Coweta ⏰ Begins at 9:00 AM

#CPSZEBRAPRIDE
about 1 month ago, CPS Communications
volleyball game day
Congratulations, Mr. T.J. Smith – 2025 Oklahoma Jazz Director of the Year! 🎷🏆

Please join us in celebrating Mr. T.J. Smith, who has been named the 2025 Oklahoma Jazz Director of the Year by the Oklahoma Jazz Educators Association (OKJE)! This prestigious honor recognizes his outstanding achievements and lasting impact on jazz education across the state. 🎶

A Claremore and Verdigris native, Mr. Smith has dedicated the past decade to inspiring young musicians and building championship-level jazz programs—earning 7 superior ratings and 5 state titles at two different schools! Since joining Claremore Public Schools in 2023 as Director of Jazz Studies, he’s worked alongside Mrs. Acord and the incredible CPS staff to build one of the top 5A programs in the state.

Mr. Smith shared:

“I’d like to thank my parents for all of their support, my uncle for his guidance and support in the band world, all of the directors I’ve ever had the privilege of working with, my friends, the CPS administration, and the amazing community of Claremore. It truly is a great day to be a Zebra!”

We are so proud to have a leader like Mr. Smith guiding our students with passion, excellence, and heart. 🎺

#CPSZEBRAPRIDE #JazzDirectorOfTheYear
about 1 month ago, CPS Communications
Band Director, T.J. Smith
Band Director, T.J. Smith
Band Director, T.J. Smith, looking out at his team.
Let’s welcome Sage Elrod to the Zebra family in today’s New Teacher Feature!

Ms. Elrod is joining Westside Elementary as a 2nd Grade Special Education teacher. She studied Psychology and is certified in Mild/Moderate Disabilities.

Her journey into education is deeply personal. “When I was little, I was in Special Education myself. I had some good teachers that encouraged me. I started working in daycares and knew I wanted to help the kiddos that might have a little harder time learning. After an internship in a Pre-K/Kinder Mild/Moderate classroom, I knew this was exactly what I was meant to do.”

Ms. Elrod enjoys:

🎬: How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days
🧀: Simple Mills Almond Flour Cheese Crackers
🍬: Nerd Clusters or anything sour
🥤: Pepsi, Alani Nu, Celsius, and Arctic Blitz Gatorade
🌈: Turquoise, Rose Gold, and Coral
📍: Colorado or the beach

She loves reading, crocheting, hammocking, fishing, and camping—and she’s the youngest of five siblings with 12 nieces and nephews! Ms. Elrod is also a monthly volunteer in her church’s 3–5-year-old class.

Welcome to the Claremore Zebra Dazzle, Ms. Sage Elrod! 🦓💙 #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
about 1 month ago, CPS Communications
Ms. Sage Elrod
Chef Ryan recreates the winning recipe from our Junior Chef competition—Snicker Salad! 🍏🍫🥄

This sweet, creamy treat is a perfect crowd-pleaser for holidays, get-togethers, or just a fun family dessert. Watch the video, try it at home, and bring a taste of #CPSZEBRAPRIDE to your table!

https://youtu.be/0mw4Y5sqMTg
about 1 month ago, CPS Communications
Cooking with Chef Thumbnail
Families must complete the Educational Benefits Application for the 2025–26 school year to qualify for Free or Reduced-Price Meals. Filling out the application is quick and easy, and there are several convenient ways to access it:

✔️ Online: Log in to your Infinite Campus Parent Portal > go to More > Meal Benefits
https://claremoreok.infinitecampus.org/campus/portal/claremore.jsp
✋ Don’t have a Parent Portal account yet? You’ll need to create one first!
✔️ Printable Application: Visit the Child Nutrition page on the Claremore Schools website.
✔️ In-Person Pickup: Stop by the Child Nutrition Office or Enrollment Office at 101 W 11th Street.
✔️ By Email: Request a copy by emailing brandy.brooks@claremore.k12.ok.us
If you have questions, please call the Child Nutrition Office at 918-923-4243.
Please follow all application instructions carefully to avoid processing delays.

2025–26 MEAL PRICES

Regular Prices:

Breakfast:
– $2.25 (Elementary & Secondary)
– $2.50 (Adults)

Lunch:
– $3.75 (Elementary)
– $4.00 (Junior High & High School)
– $5.00 (Adults)

Snack: $1.25

Reduced Prices:

Breakfast: 30¢
Lunch: 40¢

💳 Account Balances & Payments
Child Nutrition is currently transferring meal account balances (debits/credits) from the 2024–25 school year to 2025–26 student accounts.
Online meal payment access will be posted as soon as it's available. In the meantime, please plan to send check or cash to deposit in your child’s account.

Our Child Nutrition staff will be on-site during Meet the Teacher events to assist with applications and payments.
📧 Contact: Brandy Brooks, Administrative Assistant
✉️ brandy.brooks@claremore.k12.ok.us

Let’s fuel a great year together! 🦓🥗 #ZebraNutrition #CPSZebraPride
about 1 month ago, CPS Communications
Educational Benefits Program graphic
🎉 Welcome, Class of 2029!🦓

Today, our amazing FUZE team, Freshmen Utilizing the Zebra Experience, rolled out the red carpet for our newest Zebras during Freshman Orientation!

From navigating schedules to building connections, these upperclassmen are helping our freshmen start strong and feel right at home at CHS. 💪

We’re so excited for what’s ahead. Let’s make it a great year, Freshies!
#FreshmanOrientation #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
about 1 month ago, CPS Communications
fuze leaders
Let’s welcome Morgan Mills to the Zebra family in today’s New Teacher Feature!

Mrs. Mills is joining Claremont Elementary as a 3rd grade teacher. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Oklahoma State University and is excited to begin her first year of teaching.

A proud Claremore alumna, she shared, “I love Claremore Public Schools because it’s where I grew up, made the best memories, and now I get to give back by teaching and cheering on the next generation of students in the same caring community.”

Before teaching, Mrs. Mills served in the Air Force for 9 years—an experience that instilled in her a deep commitment to service, resilience, and heart.

Mrs. Mills enjoys:

📚: The Bible
🎬: Inside Out 2
🍉: Watermelon
🍬: Sour Bursting Trolli
🥤: Iced coffee or Alani Nu
🌈: Pink
📍: Anywhere on a beach

She’s also a volunteer cheer coach, Sunday school teacher, and crafter who loves using her laser and sublimation skills—when she’s not at Target!

Welcome to the Claremore Zebra Dazzle, Mrs. Morgan Mills! 🦓💖 #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
about 1 month ago, CPS Communications
Mrs. Morgan Mills
🌴🦈🦓 #ZebraTravelDiaries

Jett Vanover took his Zebra pride to paradise with a trip to Turks & Caicos! While there, he explored Iguana Island, spotted lots of sea turtles 🐢, and even got up close and personal with a lemon shark! 🦈☀️

From crystal-clear waters to wild encounters, Jett’s tropical adventure is one to remember.

Headed somewhere exciting this summer? Don’t forget your Zebra gear! Send your photos to jbrace@claremore.k12.ok.us to be featured in our #ZebraTravelDiaries!

#CPSZEBRAPRIDE
about 1 month ago, CPS Communications
roosa student in turks & caicos
roosa student in turks & caicos
roosa student in turks & caicos
roosa student in turks & caicos
roosa student in turks & caicos
We can’t wait to welcome our students back and see creativity in action! 🎨

Here’s a throwback to Mr. McClurg’s art class, where students explored the magic of air-dry clay sculpting, shaping, and turning their ideas into 3D masterpieces.❤🦓 #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
about 1 month ago, CPS Communications
art students
art students
art students
art students
art students
art students
🎷 Rings for Remarkable Musicians: Sponsor the CHS Jazz Band's Legacy 💍

This wasn’t just a performance—it was a season of excellence. The CHS Jazz Band of 2025 made history with standout performances, top honors at competitions, and unforgettable moments that set a new standard for music at Claremore. Now, they need your help to celebrate this milestone with State Championship rings that will last a lifetime. 🎶🏅

🦓 How You Can Help
We’re calling on the Zebra community—alumni, businesses, parents, and music lovers—to help fund rings for the student musicians who represented Claremore with passion, talent, and pride.

💳 Donate Here: http://bit.ly/4m2azQO
Every contribution brings us closer—no amount is too small!

Let’s honor their dedication and help them wear a symbol of their success. They made music history—now let’s help them wear the ring. 💍🎷

💬 For more info, contact:
Courtney Acord – courtney.acord@claremore.k12.ok.us

#CPSZEBRAPRIDE #CHSJazzBand2025
about 1 month ago, CPS Communications
Jazz Band State Champs 2025
Let’s welcome Luke Shoemaker to the Zebra family in today’s New Teacher Feature!

Mr. Shoemaker is joining Claremore High School as a Social Studies teacher and Assistant Boys Soccer Coach. He earned his degree in Career and Technical Education from the University of Arkansas and a Master's in Educational Leadership from Arkansas State University.

This will be his first year at CPS, and he shared, “From the interview experience alone, I could tell there was a strong sense of community and pride in all aspects. I’ve seen districts where the culture was hurting, but this district appears to have that figured out.”

Mr. Shoemaker enjoys:

📚: The Silent Patient
🎬: Inception
🥜: Cashews
🥤: Water
🌈: Blue
📍: Italy

He’s a self-proclaimed sports-loving nerd who’s deeply passionate about all things Marvel, DC, and Star Wars—and he’s seen more movies than most people he knows. At home, he and his wife Chelsea (married six years) are raising their curious and sweet two-year-old son, Liam. Their family also includes three cats—Leia, Coco, and Loki!

Welcome to the Claremore Zebra Dazzle, Mr. Luke Shoemaker! 🦓⚽ #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
about 1 month ago, CPS Communications
Mr. Luke Shoemaker
Claremore Shows Up for Community at National Night Out! 🎒

Last night, Claremore Public Schools proudly participated in National Night Out—a nationwide event that strengthens the relationship between communities and their local law enforcement, first responders, and organizations. It’s all about building trust, fostering connections, and showing up for one another. 🤝

We were honored to serve our community by handing out over 600 backpacks filled with school supplies to help our students gear up for a strong start to the school year. Events like this are a powerful reminder that community isn’t just a core value—it’s the heart of everything we do.

Together, we’re creating a safer, more supportive, and more unified Claremore. ❤️

#CPSZEBRAPRIDE #NationalNightOut
about 1 month ago, CPS Communications
Mr. Burke handing out backpacks
Zebra Staff at National Night Out event
Zebra Nutrition staff handing out food at National Night Out
Community member with her free backpacks
Students receiving their free backpacks
Zebra Team
Zebra Team
Students receiving their free backpacks
Students receiving their free backpacks
Students receiving their free backpacks
Band Camp 2025 is in Full Swing! 🎺🎶

Our amazing CHS band students kicked off Band Camp 2025 with energy, focus, and a whole lot of heart! From early morning rehearsals to marching drills and music sectionals, they’re putting in the work to make this season unforgettable. 💪🔥

The dedication, teamwork, and passion on display prove once again—this band is ready to wow! Stay tuned... big things are coming!

#CPSZEBRAPRIDE #BandCamp2025
about 1 month ago, CPS Communications
Full Band Camp Group
Percussion Practice
Percussion Practice
Band Camp outside practice
Band Camp  outside practice
Band Camp outside practice
Director TJ Smith
Trumpeters practice.
Band Camp Student leader
Band Camp indoor practice.
Please join us in congratulating our incredible Child Nutrition Director, Janna Ragland, on being installed as Vice President of the School Nutrition Association of Oklahoma! 🥳🍽️

Janna has been a true game changer—elevating our school lunch program, strengthening community connections, and leading with heart and innovation every step of the way. 💛

We’re so proud to see her take on this leadership role and can’t wait to watch the impact she’ll continue to make!
about 1 month ago, CPS Communications
Janna with SNA Board
Janna at Junior Chef Competition.
Janna in action.
Let’s welcome Rhett Looney to the Zebra family in today’s New Teacher Feature!

Coach Looney is joining Will Rogers Junior High as a Social Studies teacher and will also coach softball and basketball. She earned her degree in Health and Physical Education from Northeastern State University.

This is her first year at CPS, and she shared, “Many teachers changed my life for the better and I want to do the same thing for kids! I chose CPS because it’s a close, small community that cares so much for each other!”

Coach Looney enjoys:

🎬: Remember the Titans
🧀: Cheez-Its
🍬: Sour Patch Kids
🥤: Coke
📍: The beach
🏓: Pickleball

Fun fact—she played college softball at NSU and competed in five sports in high school, even winning a state championship in cross country as a freshman!

Welcome to the Claremore Zebra Dazzle, Coach Rhett Looney! 🦓🥎🏀 #CPSZEBRAPRIDE
about 1 month ago, CPS Communications
Ms. Rhett Looney

🦓 Zebra Travel Diaries: Jamie Brace in Washington, D.C.

Claremore Public Schools’ Executive Director of Communication, Jamie Brace, recently traveled to Washington, D.C. for the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) Conference, where she connected with fellow communicators from across the country to sharpen strategies that help tell the story of public education. 🗣️📣

Following the conference, Jamie, joined by her husband, David, and daughter, Averey (CHS Class of 2013), had the incredible opportunity to take a personal tour of the U.S. Capitol, where they got to see CBS correspondent Alex Cameron, diving deep into the history and function of government through the lens of communication.

Highlights included visiting the historic Old Senate Chamber, dating back to the 1800s, and a special stop by the Will Rogers statue, proudly displayed in a hallway affectionately called the “Will Rogers Room”, just outside the current joint chamber, bringing a little piece of Claremore pride to the heart of the nation’s capital.❤🏛

The trip also included visits to national monuments and museums, blending history, learning, and a whole lot of #CPSZEBRAPRIDE. Send in your #ZebraTravelDiaries repping your logo to jbrace@claremore.k12.ok.us

about 1 month ago, CPS Communications
zebra travel diaries with jamie brace
zebra travel diaries with jamie brace
zebra travel diaries with jamie brace
zebra travel diaries with jamie brace
🎭 From Audience to Actor! 🎭

CHS senior Tennessee Suiter got his start in theater after seeing Hamilton at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center, a moment that lit a creative spark. He took a leap, auditioned for the school play, The Addams Family, last year, and hasn’t looked back since!

This summer, he took the stage as Kurt Kelly in Heathers: The Musical, produced by Theatre Tulsa. After a full month of rehearsals, opening night debuted July 25th! Tennessee says the biggest lesson he’s learned is to “show up in a good mood and be open to advice, no matter who it’s from.”

We love seeing our Zebras chase their passions and shine on and off the stage! 🖤🎬
#CPSZEBRAPRIDE
about 1 month ago, CPS Communications
student performing in heathers the musical
student performing in heathers the musical
student performing in heathers the musical
student performing in heathers the musical
student performing in heathers the musical