At Sand Springs Public Schools, excellence, determination, and leadership don’t go unnoticed. Each month, the Sandite Spirit and Pacesetter Awards honor students and staff who go above and beyond to represent our district with pride. We are thrilled to spotlight this month’s outstanding recipients who embody the true Sandite spirit.
Reese Wood
Charles Page High School
Recently named an Oklahoma Academic All-State recipient, Reese Wood is a model student, leader, and role model. His academic excellence, community involvement, and unwavering character make him a standout Sandite, on campus and beyond.
CJ Young
Charles Page High School
CJ Young, a senior at Charles Page High School, is making a difference beyond the classroom. As a Youth All-Star Leader with My Brother’s Keeper Tulsa, CJ is passionate about helping other young men succeed—from academics to career readiness. His work has even earned him a feature on News on 6. CJ’s leadership, advocacy, and commitment to uplifting others make him a true example of the Sandite Spirit in action.
Trystan Brown, Chloe Hammond, and Melyssa Rocha
Clyde Boyd Middle School
These three talented vocalists turned heads at the OSSAA Solo and Ensemble Contest, each tackling a new piece and mastering it in just five days.
Trystan Brown sang “Go Tell It On The Mountain”
Chloe Hammond (not pictured) performed “Kum Ba Yah”
Melyssa Rocha delivered “I Will Sing You The Stars”
All three earned Superior Ratings for their outstanding performances. Their shared dedication, focus, and musical excellence earned them the Sandite Spirit Award
Jaxon “Scout” Trotter
Charles Page High School
Jaxon “Scout” Trotter, a senior at Charles Page High School, has proven himself on the mat as one of the state’s top wrestlers. He was selected for the Oklahoma Coaches Association’s 2025 Large East All-State Boys Wrestling Team for the 190 lb division and finished as the 6A State Runner-Up this year. Scout’s discipline, competitive spirit, and accomplishments bring honor to Sandite athletics and showcase his dedication to excellence.
Kiyah Dover
Charles Page High School
Kiyah Dover has made history in powerlifting, becoming the school’s first-ever 3-time state qualifier and the second 2-time state placer. At this year’s state meet, she placed 3rd overall, lifting a combined 850 lbs—including a 335 lb squat, 165 lb bench (tying the school record), and a 350 lb deadlift. Her steady progress—from not placing in 2023, to 5th in 2024, to 3rd in 2025—shows her relentless drive and determination. Kiyah’s strength, both physically and mentally, is an inspiration to us all.
Hope Bump
Charles Page High School
A standout on and off the court, Hope Bump is the definition of a student-athlete. She averaged 21 points per game this season, earned Offensive Player of the Year for 6A District 4, and recently scored her 1,000th career point. Her unforgettable 39-point game at the Wilburton Tournament sealed her place as one of the best, earning her a spot on the OGBCA All-State Team. But Hope's excellence doesn’t stop at athletics—she maintains a 4.0 GPA and has signed to play basketball at Southern Arkansas University.
Nolan Vantrease
Early Childhood Education Center
Young but mighty, Nolan Vantrease has been making waves in BMX racing. He captured first place in the 5 & Under category at the USA BMX Show Me State National Race and was featured on 2 News Oklahoma for his accomplishments. Nolan’s energy and determination reflect the future of Sandite greatness.
Diane Stephens
Clyde Boyd Middle School
Since 1976, Diane Stephens has been the heart and soul of her school. She begins her days before sunrise, ensuring everything runs smoothly, often solving problems before most people have had their morning coffee. Diane is the person everyone turns to, the one who never calls in, never lets a detail slip, and always shows up with tireless dedication. Her institutional knowledge and commitment make her irreplaceable.
Each of these honorees reflects what it truly means to embody the Sandite Spirit—determination, pride, and excellence in action. Congratulations to all of this month’s winners! #StandTallSandites