Durant’s Rusel Smith – Teacher Spotlight – Presented by Simmons Bank

Rusel Smith stands as a plethora of knowledge and inspiration within the halls of Durant High School, where his dedication to education illuminates the minds of his students. In his second year at Durant, Rusel’s journey as an educator is marked by passion, perseverance and an unwavering commitment to excellence and making a difference in his students’ lives. […]
Durant’s Sandra McFarland – Teacher Spotlight – Presented by Simmons Bank

Sandra McFarland, a dedicated educator at Durant High School, has made a significant impact on her students through her passion for teaching and love for math. With a career spanning various schools across Oklahoma, Alaska and Texas, Sandra has brought her expertise and enthusiasm to students from diverse backgrounds. She taught in Alaska for 10 yearsand is a retired Alaskan educator. As […]
Coalgate’s Trista Horn – Cheer Spotlight – Presented by SafeGuard Insurance Solutions

Trista Horn at Coalgate High School is the epitome of passionate leadership on the track team and cheerleading squad. Trista looks back on her path with a mix of ambition and appreciation as she enters her senior year. Trista’s motivation comes from her ever-present desire to improve both her community and herself. “My motivation is my drive to […]
Coalgate’s Easton Wilkinson – Baseball Spotlight – Presented by SafeGuard Insurance Solutions

Academic achievement and athletic ability have blended seamlessly throughout Easton Wilkinson’s time at Coalgate High School. As a member of the National Honor Society and the Superintendent’s Honor Roll, he has consistently demonstrated his commitment to scholastic achievement while excelling on the baseball field. Reflecting on his introduction to baseball, Easton has been around baseball […]
Atoka’s Kyleigh Ritchie – Softball Spotlight – Presented by Stuteville Ford of Atoka

Leading by example both on and off the softball field is senior Kyleigh Ritchie of Atoka High School. As she reflected on her journey, Kyleigh shared, “Other kids looking up to me motivates me to work hard.” This drive to inspire others fuels her determination to excel in athletics and academics alike. Kyleigh has had many […]
Atoka’s JD Bland – Basketball Spotlight – Presented by Stuteville Ford of Atoka

On the basketball court and football field, JD Bland, a junior at Atoka High School, is a formidable opponent. He stands out among the other student-athletes at his school because of his constant devotion to his sports and his pursuit of perfection. When asked about his motivations, JD shared, “Something that motivates me is mainly both of my […]
9 Questions with Kingston’s Emily Bellettini – Basketball Spotlight – Presented by Kennedy Eyecare of Atoka

VYPE: What matchup are you most looking forward to this season? Emily Bellettini: I am looking forward to playing Idabel. VYPE: Did you have any teammates that you admire or that supported you? EB: One teammate that I admire is Avri Weeks. Avri was a senior when I was a freshman. She was the best leader and always came ready to work every day. […]
Atoka’s Prince Coleman – Basketball Spotlight – Presented by Kennedy Eyecare of Atoka

As high school basketball season is edging closer to playoff time, Prince Coleman emerges as a beacon of talent and determination at Atoka High School. Prince Coleman’s journey, rooted in faith, family and education, underscores his unique approach to both academics and sports. “When it comes to my background, it starts with God and family, […]
Durant’s Maya Dodson – Basketball Spotlight – Presented by Toby Isenberg Real Estate

Maya Dodson: Durant’s Basketball Maverick Maya Dodson is more than simply a player on the basketball court at Durant High School; she is the inspiration for the team’s triumphs and the epitome of perseverance. Maya, a senior who is passionate about basketball, has faced obstacles along the way but has never wavered in her resolve. “My drive […]
Durant’s Addison Couch – Cheer Spotlight – Presented by Cherokee Communications

Addison Couch, a junior at Durant High School, is a remarkable individual who excels in both cheer and band. Her passion for the alto saxophone is as strong as her commitment to cheerleading. When asked about her motivation, Addison shared, “Something that motivates me is my future.” It’s clear that she’s focused and determined to […]