Cushing Public Schools Personal Electronic Device Policy
Devices Away. Focus Today.
To support focused learning, reduce classroom distractions, and encourage healthy social interaction, Cushing Public Schools has adopted a district-wide “Devices Away. Focus Today.” policy in alignment with Oklahoma Senate Bill 139. From the first bell to the last, all personal electronic devices must be powered off and put away during instructional time, unless authorized by a teacher for academic use.
๐ What the Law Requires
Senate Bill 139 goes into effect July 1, 2025, and applies to all public school districts in Oklahoma.
For the 2025–2026 school year, each district must adopt a policy that prohibits students from using personal electronic devices — including cell phones — during the instructional day, from bell to bell, while on campus.
Exceptions are allowed for documented medical needs and accommodations outlined in an IEP or 504 Plan.
Beginning in 2026–2027, continued enforcement is optional and determined by local school boards.
The law addresses use, not possession — meaning students may bring devices, but they must remain powered off and put away during the school day.
๐ What Our Policy States
Cushing Public Schools Policy includes the following provisions in alignment with Oklahoma Senate Bill 139:
Use of personal electronic devices is prohibited by students on campus from bell to bell — this includes the start to end of the instructional day, lunch, and passing periods.
Applies to any personal electronic device capable of connecting to a smartphone, internet, Wi-Fi, or cellular network, including:
Smartwatches
Smart headphones or earbuds
Tablets
Smart glasses
Does NOT include school-issued or school-approved instructional technology used under teacher supervision.
Violations may result in disciplinary action and will be addressed according to the student code of conduct under noncompliance.
๐ก Why This Matters
When devices are put away, students are more likely to:
โ Stay focused on learning
โ Build stronger, in-person connections
โ Perform better academically
This isn’t just about turning off devices — it’s about turning on focus.
โ What’s Allowed
Device use is permitted only under the following conditions:
Before the first bell
After the dismissal bell
With explicit staff permission for instructional purposes
If medically necessary or outlined in a student’s IEP or 504 Plan
Outside of these situations, all personal electronic devices must remain off and out of sight during the school day.
โ What’s Not Allowed to Be Used During the School Day:
Cell phones
Smartwatches
Earbuds or headphones
iPods or smart glasses
Any device capable of connecting to a network
These devices must be powered off and stored out of sight throughout the instructional day. Use is only permitted when specifically authorized for educational purposes or as part of a documented medical or support plan.
๐ฑ What Students Should Know
Bringing a phone or personal device is a personal choice. Cushing Public Schools is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items.
During instructional time — including hallways, restrooms, and passing periods — devices must be powered off and out of sight.
Repeated violations will result in disciplinary action as outlined in the CPS Student Handbook.
A new state law — Oklahoma Senate Bill 139 — requires all public school districts to implement a policy restricting the use of personal electronic devices during the school day, effective July 1, 2025.
More than just a legal mandate, this policy represents an important step toward:
Enhancing student learning and academic focus
Minimizing classroom distractions
Supporting student mental wellness and social development
By limiting device use during the school day, students are better able to stay engaged, build meaningful connections, and focus on success — both in and out of the classroom.
Generally, no. Personal electronic devices must remain off and out of sight during the school day. However, there are a few important exceptions:
๐ฃ Emergency situations, such as natural disasters or lockdowns
๐ Medical emergencies, such as asthma attacks or seizures
๐ Health monitoring, including glucose or other medical tracking
๐งฉ Assistive technology required by a student’s IEP, 504 Plan, or medical plan
If you believe your student qualifies for an exception, please contact your building principal or school nurse for guidance.
Only high school students in grades 9–12 may use their phones during open lunch while off campus.
All other students — including those on campus during lunch — must keep personal devices silenced and put away throughout the lunch period, in accordance with the district policy and Senate Bill 139.
Yes. “Bell to bell” refers to the entire instructional day, which includes:
Classroom time
Passing periods
Lunch (unless exempt, such as off-campus lunch for eligible students)
Devices must remain off and out of sight during all parts of the school day, unless an approved exception applies.
If you need to get a message to your child during the school day, please call the front office of their school site.
Staff will ensure your student receives the information promptly and without classroom disruption.
Students may request to use a school phone during the day if they need to contact a parent or guardian. Phones are available at:
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