Metro schools implement cell phone ban for upcoming school year

Yahoo

4 hours ago

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – Multiple metro schools are implementing a cell phone ban for students this school year.
Oklahoma City Public Schools, Edmond Public Schools, Putnam City Schools and El Reno Public Schools have added this new policy to their rule books.
RELATED STORY: New Oklahoma law prompts El Reno Public Schools to ban student electronic devices usage
The policy says that students will no longer be permitted to use personal electronic devices throughout the entire school day, or from 'bell to bell'. This comes after Senate Bill 139 passed through the Oklahoma Legislature.
Cell phones, smartwatches, tablets, and similar devices will not be allowed to be used, accessed, or displayed by students during the day, including class time, passing periods, and lunch.
Putnam City Schools calls the initiative 'Pause The Screen, Chase The Dream'. The goal is to reduce distractions, improve engagement and provide a safe and respectful space for students.
According to Putnam City Schools:
Students must silence and store all personal electronic devices such as cell phones, smart watches, smart glasses, wireless earbuds or headphones, tablets, and similar items
District-issued devices are not included in this policy
Wired headphones may be used with District-issued devices
Bell-to-bell means from the start of the school day to the end of the school day, including lunch and passing periods
Parents and guardians needing to contact their student should call the school office. Messages will be delivered, and students may use the office phone to return calls
Students may use their personal devices in the following situations:
During active emergencies requiring immediate communication for safety, including calls to 911
For medical monitoring needs, such as glucose checks
As part of documented accommodations in a student's 504 Plan, IEP, or Medical Plan
RELATED STORY: New bill would ban phones 'bell-to-bell' for middle and high school students
Schools in the metro are responding to the change.
'While we must comply with the state's legislation, open communication remains a priority to OKCPS. We will measure the impact of this policy at schools and continue to collect feedback and make adjusts as needed.' says OKCPS.
'Edmond Public Schools believes in the power of presence and the importance of all students being present physically and engaged in the learning environment.' says EPS.
'The Putnam City Schools Board of Education approved an updated districtwide personal electronic device policy in compliance with a new Oklahoma law that requires all school districts to limit the use of personal electronic devices during the school day.' says PC.
'It is important to understand that this new policy is not about punishment—it is about creating the best learning environment possible for all students. Reducing distractions in the classroom supports academic success, student engagement, and stronger social connections.' said Matt Goucher, Superintendent of El Reno Public Schools.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Solve the daily Crossword