Oklahoma legislators recently passed a new law (SB 139) that will prohibit students across the state from using their cell phones and other personal electronic devices while on campus during the school day. This will begin this upcoming 2025-26 school year.. As required by law, Bristow Board of Education recently approved a policy regarding local guidelines. The policy can be read here, Personal Electronic Devices (Students).
Ultimately, the purpose of this effort is to protect instructional time and to help students learn better by minimizing distractions during the school day. BPS understands it will be a big change and will require flexibility and patience from everyone involved. By communicating about the law early, we hope it will allow students, parents, and staff the opportunity to have their questions answered and to be ready to implement the policy when school begins on August 8th.
The law requires that schools be free of personal device use from "bell to bell".
The law applies to personal cell phones and other personal electronic devices including -but not limited to-smart watches, smart glasses, laptops, tablets, and smart headphones. It does not apply to school issued or school-approved devices.
Students who violate board policy may face disciplinary consequences.
There are exceptions to the law, including the use of a device:
During an emergency, such as a natural disaster or school safety/security issue.
When a student needs the device for a health need, like checking blood sugar.
If the device is listed as necessary in a student's IEP or 504 Plan.
Although it will be an adjustment, BPS believes the change will have a positive impact on our schools and our students. We are here to support our students, parents, and staff through the transition.