Oklahoma school cell phone ban could become permanent

Sydnee Batzlaff/KFOR, Oklahoma News 4

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — A bill to permanently ban students from using cell phones during the school day is heading to the governor’s desk.

The Bell to Bell, No Cell Policy was introduced last year, but as a test run.

If this bill is signed into law, it would make it permanent. Many school districts say they’re already seeing results.

“I think we definitely are seeing that more engagement, more talking, discussion about academics and content,” said Traci Kay, principal, Alcott Middle School, Norman Public Schools.

Those with Millwood Public Schools say they are also seeing positive impacts.

“It’s been beneficial at Millwood because of the fact that our kids are able to just hone in on the skills that they need in order to be successful, their foundational skills, and not just worry about social media,” said Warren Pete, principal, Millwood Arts Academy, Millwood Public Schools.

Districts say the difference is noticeable and not just inside the classroom.

You can walk into the cafeteria, and you can see kids interacting and having conversations.

Each district is able to choose how they enforce the policy. At Millwood Public Schools, they use lockers, and at Norman Public Schools, students are able to keep them in their backpacks.

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