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
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Mrs. Ratcliff has been leading the students of Catalayah Elementary in a school-wide art project! Students from Pre-K through 5th grade each created one-of-a-kind heart designs, which came together to form one BIG Catalayah masterpiece! That’s over 500 hearts coming together to make something truly amazing! 👏❤️✨
Great job, Mrs. Ratcliff, and to all of our budding artists at Catalayah! 🌟🎉
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Our CHS Drama students took on the challenge of struggling with small objects! From the emotions on their faces to the energy in the room, you could feel every moment come alive, something a photo just can’t capture!
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After years of offering beginner, intermediate, and advanced band at WRJH, we are thrilled to introduce this brand-new class that takes music to the next level. The Jazz Band gives students the chance to explore different styles of music, experiment with new sounds, and grow their musical creativity.
Not only will this class build confidence and skill on their instruments, but it will also prepare them for success in high school jazz bands and beyond. We can’t wait to see what these young musicians create!
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🔥 It’s GAME DAY and the wait is finally over! 🔥
After weeks of hard work and dedication, the Zebra Marching Band is hitting the field for their first performance of the season tonight before the Claremore vs. Bartlesville game! 🎶
We can’t wait to see our Zebra Marching Band bring the music, the spirit, and the pride to the field tonight!
Go Zebra Band! Go Zebra Football!
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Students jumped right in, working on art projects of their choice while spending time with friends in a creative, supportive space. We love seeing their ideas come to life and can’t wait to see what they create next!
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🎨 CHS Art Department Open Studio 🎨
The CHS Art Department invites all students to join our after-school Open Studio program! Come paint, draw, sculpt, and create in a relaxed, supportive environment.
🗓 Every Thursday after school until 5:00 PM
📍 Room 210
No experience needed—just bring your imagination!
Please make sure to arrange your own transportation home.
We hope to see you there!
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The room was filled with fun, laughter, and lively debates! After each round, students discovered the real value of the artwork and learned about the incredible artists behind it. Such a creative (and eye-opening!) way to explore the art world!
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Earlier this year, the Oklahoma Legislature passed a new law requiring all public schools to become “cell phone-free zones” during school hours. In compliance, the Claremore Public Schools Board of Education has officially adopted a local policy to guide implementation across the district.
Read more about law, policy, and consequences in this article that was emailed to guardians and posted on the website on July 31st - https://www.claremore.k12.ok.us/article/2334569
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From Audience to Actor!
CHS senior Tennessee Suiter got his start in theatre 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 Teen Edition, 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! 🖤🎬
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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!
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Oklahoma Jazz Educators along with Oklahoma Bandmasters Association hosted their annual summer conference in Tulsa, celebrating the hard work and dedication of both students and directors!
🎶 CHS incoming junior, Harrison Fourkiller, was selected to play bass trombone in the prestigious OKJE/OBA 5A-6A All-Star Jazz Band, while outgoing senior, Logan Henson, played Tenor 1 for the second consecutive year in this elite ensemble. Not pictured is Claremore incoming junior, Liam Sather who was also named to the ensemble to play auxiliary percussion.
Students have the incredible opportunity to work with guest clinicians known for their excellence in jazz, and this year was no exception! Dr. Jordan VanHemert, Director of Jazz Studies at Northeastern State University, and George Toumayan, Head Band Director at Metro Christian Academy, spent two days working with the students, ending with a concert we won’t soon forget! 🎷🎺🎵
Congratulations to Harrison, Logan, and Liam on their outstanding achievements! We are proud of you!
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A huge congratulations to our State Champion CHS Jazz Band, who have been selected to perform as an Honor Group at the 2026 OkMEA Winter Conference in Tulsa! The band will take the stage on Thursday evening, January 22nd, as part of the Jazz Honor Concert at the Arvest Convention Center in downtown Tulsa. More exciting details to come!
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