Owasso Parents & Guardians,
As we get closer to the first day of school on August 14, I wanted to reach out to you with some information regarding a new policy and procedure in our buildings for the 2025-26 year. You have likely heard in the media about Oklahoma SB 139, a new law that was signed by the Governor in May that bans student cell phone use in schools.
This new “bell to bell, no cell” law is aimed at reducing distractions and promoting a more focused and engaging learning environment for all students.
To comply with the law, the Owasso Board of Education recently approved an updated Policy 5.31 - Wireless Telecommunication Devices, which you can read in its entirety on our website.
Here’s what this means for students at Owasso Public Schools for the 2025-26 school year:
- While students may possess a cell phone or personal electronic device while on school premises, students are prohibited from using those devices at any time between the first bell ringing at the start of the school day to begin instructional time until the dismissal bell at the end of the school day to end instructional time.
- Continuing an expectation for phones and other personal electronic devices from previous years, devices must be silenced and put away during class time.
- Exceptions may be made for situations such as medical emergencies, natural disasters and lockdowns or to monitor health issues, including but not limited to glucose monitoring.
- Students with special needs may use cell phones or personal electronic devices during class time or during the school day if their IEP, Medical Plan, or 504 Plan explicitly requires it as assistive technology for medically or educationally necessary purposes. To qualify for this exception, the use must be listed as a documented accommodation necessary for instruction or communication within the student’s IEP, Medical Plan, or 504 Plan.
“Personal electronic device” means a personal device capable of connecting to a smartphone, the Internet, or a cellular or Wi-Fi network, or directly connecting to another similar device. Personal electronic devices include, but are not limited to, smart watches, smart headphones, laptops, tablets, and smart glasses.
We appreciate your partnership and ask that you discuss this information with your student before the start of school. If you have questions about the policy or what it means for your student, please don’t hesitate to contact your child’s school or the Teaching & Learning office at 918-272-8182.
Thank you for your continued support of Owasso Public Schools. We look forward to a great year ahead!
Sincerely,
Dr. Margaret Coates
Superintendent
