Students' Cell Phones & Personal Electronic Devices

We understand you may have questions regarding the recent changes to our policy on personal electronic devices. Below is a clear and comprehensive explanation of what’s changing, why it’s happening, and how it affects your student.

Senate Bill 139 mandates that all public schools implement a policy prohibiting students from using personal electronic devices throughout the entire instructional day (from bell to bell).

Students are not allowed to use any personal electronic devices on campus during the entire instructional day, including lunch and passing periods.
This rule applies to any devices capable of connecting to smartphones, the internet, cellular or Wi-Fi networks, or similar technology, such as smartwatches, headphones, tablets, laptops, and smart glasses.
The law does not cover school-issued or approved instructional devices.

As a result,

Students may only use a school-issued device/Chromebook during the school day.
Students are no longer permitted to use any personal devices such as laptops, cell phones, earbuds, smartwatches, or similar devices during the entire instructional day.
Students must turn off and store devices out of sight during the school day, including during lunch and passing periods. Exceptions are allowed for emergency use, documented medical needs, and approved assistive technology as outlined in a student’s IEP, 504 Plan, or medical plan.
Additionally, students will no longer be able to connect any personal devices to the school Wi-Fi network.

We appreciate your support as we implement this initiative. Together, we can create an environment that better supports learning, focus, and the well-being of all our students.

FAQs

Why is Noble Public Schools implementing this policy?
A new state law requires all Oklahoma school districts to adopt a policy that prohibits the use of personal electronic devices during the school day. Beyond legal compliance, this change is designed to enhance student learning, reduce distractions, and support mental well-being. Limiting device use encourages students to stay focused, engage more in class, and strengthen connections with both peers and educators.

How can I support my child with this change?
Talk with your child about the purpose of this policy. Emphasize how reduced screen time can improve focus, participation, and overall well-being. Parental support is a key factor in helping students adapt successfully.

What if I need to contact my child during the school day?
You have two options:

Call the school office. Staff will ensure your child receives your message.
For high school students (grades 9–12), you may email them using their NPS email address.

Can parents email their child during the school day?
Yes, but only for students in grades 9 through 12. Students in grades PK–8 are unable to receive emails from outside the NPS network.

What devices are included?
This policy applies to all personal electronic devices, including but not limited to:

Laptops
iPads
iPhones and other cell phones
Earbuds
Smartwatches
Smartglasses
Similar personal electronic items

Can students use their phones/devices during the school day?
No, students may not use personal devices during the school day. However, exceptions include:

Emergency situations (e.g., natural disasters, lockdowns)
Medical emergencies (e.g., asthma attacks, seizures)
Health monitoring for medical needs such as glucose tracking (with prior approval)
Assistive technology outlined in a student’s IEP, 504 Plan, or medical plan (with prior approval)

Does “bell to bell” include lunch and passing periods?
Yes. "Bell to bell" covers the entire instructional day—including lunch and passing periods.

Can students use their phones/devices during lunch?
No. Phones must remain silenced and out of sight during lunch periods.

Can students bring their phones/devices to school and use them after the school day ends?
Yes. Students are allowed to bring their devices to school; however, they must turn them off and keep them out of sight throughout the school day, including during lunchtime and passing periods.

Are students allowed to have their phones/devices out during the school day?
No. Devices must be turned off and put away unless an approved exception applies.

My child uses a device to monitor a medical condition. Can they use it during the day?
Yes. Students who require medical devices may use them if the need is documented in an IEP, 504 Plan, or medical plan. Please work with your child’s school to ensure all appropriate documentation is in place.

How will emergencies be handled if phones are not allowed?
In an emergency, students may use their phones or can be reached through the school office. If a student requires immediate access to a device, they should notify their teacher.

Can my student wear a smartwatch?
No. Smartwatches fall under the category of personal electronic devices and are not allowed during the school day unless an exception applies, such as:

Emergency or medical situations
Health monitoring needs (with prior approval)
Use defined in an IEP, 504 Plan, or medical plan

Can students listen to music during school hours?
Yes—but only when permitted by the teacher and only using a school-issued device with wired headphones.

Will Google Chat or other messaging apps be available on school devices?
No. Google Chat and similar apps will be disabled on district-issued devices.

Can students use their devices on the bus during the commute to and from school?
Yes, as long as it is before school begins or after school has been dismissed.

Can students use their devices on the bus to and from sporting events?
It varies depending on the situation and is at the coach's discretion.

What if the student is fully virtual?
This policy currently applies only to students who are physically present on school grounds.

What if the student is enrolled in concurrent or Vo-Tech classes?
This policy currently applies only to students who are physically present on school grounds.