Serine
Oklahoma school districts are tightening student cellphone policies ahead of the new academic year, in response to Senate Bill 139, a recently passed state law.
This legislation mandates that students keep their phones powered off throughout the school day—starting from the first bell until dismissal.
Guthrie Public Schools Implements Full-Day Ban
Guthrie Public Schools is among the latest to announce updates. The new policy states that personal phones must be powered off during the entirety of the school day.
Additionally, students are prohibited from using devices to record conversations or events unless they have prior permission from the principal and consent from all parties involved.
Other Districts Follow Suit
Similar cellphone restrictions are being adopted across other Oklahoma districts:
- El Reno Public Schools have established a strict “bell to bell” device ban, prohibiting the use of cellphones or electronic devices on school grounds during school hours.
- In Oklahoma City Public Schools, students may carry their phones but are not allowed to use them during instructional time.
- Norman Public Schools requires students to turn off their phones not only during class but also during lunch and passing periods.
Concerns and Exceptions
Some parents have voiced concerns about communicating with their children before and after school. Officials clarified that the new policies do not interfere with communication outside instructional hours.
According to Tony Childers, General Counsel for Oklahoma City Public Schools, “Parents can still reach their children before and after school. The restrictions apply during instructional time only.”
Each district has also made exceptions for situations such as:
- Medical monitoring devices
- Emergency circumstances
- Special education needs
Policy Review Scheduled
As per the law, school districts may reassess and adjust their cellphone rules after the 2025–2026 school year based on implementation outcomes and feedback from staff, students, and families.
Oklahoma schools are taking a firm stance on limiting cellphone use during school hours to prioritize student focus and learning.
While concerns about accessibility remain, schools are balancing safety, educational integrity, and legal compliance with the flexibility to adapt policies in the future.