Claremore Public Schools is proud to recognize four students who have earned top honors through the Oklahoma Choral Directors Association (OkCDA) and the Northeastern Oklahoma Choral Directors Association (NOCDA). These selections represent some of the highest achievements available to secondary choral students in Oklahoma and reflect both individual excellence and the strength of CPS arts education.
What It Means to Be Selected
Selection to an All-State or All-District choir is an exceptionally competitive process. Students audition against peers from every school classification in Oklahoma, from Class A through 6A, placing them in direct competition with singers from schools of all sizes across the state. Auditions require students to prepare advanced vocal literature, demonstrate sight-reading skills, and perform under rigorous evaluation by expert choral directors.
Only a small percentage of students who audition earn placement, making selection a significant and hard-earned accomplishment.
All-State Honors: Excellence at the Highest Level
Two Claremore students earned All-State recognition through the Oklahoma Choral Directors Association, the highest choral honor in the state.
Korben Fortna (Senior) was selected for the OkCDA All-State Jazz Choir, an elite ensemble that highlights advanced vocal technique, musical independence, and stylistic precision.
Hadley Smith (Freshman) earned placement in the OCDA All-State Mixed Choir, an extraordinary achievement for a first-year high school student competing against older, more experienced vocalists statewide.
All-State choir members rehearse and perform under nationally recognized conductors, providing students with an unparalleled educational and artistic experience.
All-District Recognition: Regional Leadership and Growth
Three CPS students were selected for the Northeastern Oklahoma Choral Directors Association (NOCDA) All-District Choir, which brings together top singers from across the region:
Jaden VonAschen (Sophomore),
Hadley Smith (Freshman), and
Reese Nichols (7th Grade)
All-District selection recognizes strong musicianship, commitment to preparation, and emerging leadership within a regional ensemble. For younger students, it also serves as a critical stepping stone toward future All-State opportunities.