Grubb & Hester Continue the FUZE Legacy

In a continued commitment to student success, Claremore High School's own Amber Hester and Rachele Grubb have recently undertaken a journey that promises to significantly enrich the freshman year experience. Their participation in the Link Crew Training in Anaheim, California, a transformative event made possible by a generous grant from OK Gear Up, has not only certified them as Link Crew leaders but also rekindled their passion for the FUZE (Freshman Utilizing Zebra Experience) program at their school.

Innovative Training Takeaways

The training in Anaheim was an eye-opening experience for both educators. Mrs. Hester and Mrs. Grubb discovered firsthand the power of interactive learning. "During our three training days, we experienced how much fun learning can be through play. Before we knew it, we were developing friendships much faster than if we had been listening to lectures," Hester shared. This realization has profoundly influenced their approach to the FUZE program. By integrating these engaging learning methodologies, they aim to facilitate academic growth and social connection among students.

This initiative is to forge a nurturing and welcoming environment for the freshmen at Claremore High School, an endeavor that both Hester and Grubb are deeply passionate about. Inspired by a vision to enhance the high school journey for freshmen, Rachele Grubb focuses on the pivotal role of inclusivity and engagement in sculpting a positive school culture. She points out a concerning statistic that nearly half of students nationwide miss out on extracurricular activities, a gap the FUZE program helps bridge. Armed with the conviction that "Teens are not apathetic, they are uninvited," Grubb is on a mission to ensure that FUZE becomes a sanctuary of inclusivity aimed at diminishing anxiety and boosting student engagement.  Studies show being a part of “something” significantly impacts students' academic success. 

Claremore High School has over 40 clubs and organizations, 13 competitive sports, several advanced placement opportunities, STEM programs, and a rich biomed and engineering program. If a student can’t find their “thing,” CHS has a process they can follow to start new clubs. “We want them not just to be a part of something but to feel  part of something.” 

Amber Hester's motivation is deeply personal. She draws from her son's freshman experience to understand the nuances of transitioning from middle school to high school. The Anaheim training solidified her belief in the crucial role of upperclassman students as mentors. Under her guidance, the FUZE program will to weave a fabric of support and warmth, inviting all students into the fold.

Fostering Leadership and Community

A critical component of their training involved understanding the role of senior mentors. "Our goal as Coordinators is to help our freshmen transition to high school, but we also get to support our seniors in becoming leaders. These seniors are chosen through a selection process and have committed to helping their younger peers navigate their new environment at the high school," they explained. This approach benefits the entire student body by encouraging seniors to embrace leadership roles and freshmen to advocate for themselves, fostering a vibrant community of mutual support and growth.

Acknowledgment of Legacy and Vision for the Future

A special nod is due to the former advisors of the FUZE program, Mrs. Lahr and Ms. Smith, who have been instrumental in its implementation and development. Their dedication and hard work set a high bar for the program. "They have truly set the bar high for us," acknowledges Grubb and Hester, underscoring the legacy of excellence and commitment they aspire to continue. As with every other program at Claremore High School, there is a continuous effort to evolve and grow the FUZE program while remaining open to new ideas. This commitment to development ensures that the program maintains its foundational strengths and adapts to meet the changing needs of students.

Together, Hester and Grubb envision a future where every student feels included, supported, and excited about the opportunities ahead. Their training has equipped them to be educators and "solution-aries"—a term that aptly describes their role in enhancing student life and fostering community and achievement at Claremore High School.

The FUZE program is a testament to Claremore High School's dedication to ensuring a seamless and inviting transition for freshmen. With activities ranging from detailed campus tours to engaging team-building exercises, the initiative is all about fostering #CPSZEBRAPRIDE from day one. Senior and junior mentors are crucial, offering guidance and support through a Freshman Orientation and beyond, embodying the school's commitment to making every student feel at home.

As spring approaches, the FUZE program is set to open its doors to applications from juniors and seniors eager to mentor the incoming Class of 2027. This marks another step forward in Claremore High School's mission to lay a solid foundation for a thriving high school experience.

Through the concerted efforts of educators like Hester, Grubb, and the esteemed legacy of Mrs. Lahr and Ms. Smith, Claremore High School is poised to transform the freshman experience into a journey of growth, belonging, and achievement. Their story is a beacon of inspiration, highlighting the profound impact that dedicated teachers can have on students' lives and the school's overall culture.