CLAREMORE, OK — As the 2025–2026 school year approaches, Claremore Public Schools is preparing for a significant statewide policy change that will impact students across Oklahoma: the prohibition of cell phone use during the school day.
Earlier this year, the Oklahoma Legislature passed a new law requiring all public schools to become “cell phone-free zones” during school hours. In compliance, the Claremore Public Schools Board of Education has officially adopted a local policy to guide implementation across the district. The new CPS policy can be viewed here.
While the transition may be an adjustment for students and families, district leaders believe the change will ultimately enhance the learning environment.
“Phones can be a major distraction, and this new law gives us a clear opportunity to increase focus, reduce interruptions, and improve student engagement,” said district officials. “We’re here to support families through the transition.”
To help families prepare, CPS has created a detailed FAQs (see links below) addressing common questions, which is also summarized below.
What Does the New Law Prohibit?
The law strictly prohibits students from using personal electronic devices during the school day, defined as the period between the first and final school bells. This includes passing periods and lunchtime, with the intention of preserving instructional focus throughout the day.
Devices prohibited under the law include cell phones, smartwatches, tablets, internet-connected headphones, smart glasses, and other personal devices capable of connecting to wireless or cellular networks. However, technology issued by the school district, such as Chromebooks or iPads, is exempt from the ban and may continue to be used for instructional purposes.
Understanding “Bell to Bell”
In Claremore Public Schools, the designated school hours covered under the policy are:
High School and Junior High: 8:15 a.m. to 3:35 p.m.
Elementary Schools: 7:25 a.m. to 2:55 p.m.
Students are expected to follow the policy from the beginning to the end of each instructional day.
Are Students Allowed to Bring Their Devices?
Although the use of devices during the school day is restricted, students are still permitted to bring their phones and other electronic devices to campus. These items must be turned off and stored securely—either in a locker, backpack, vehicle, or other designated location—as outlined in each school site's student handbook. Parents and students should be aware that the district is not responsible for any lost or stolen personal items.
Exceptions to the Policy
There are limited exceptions to the rule, including:
Medical Necessity: Students with documented medical needs, such as those requiring blood sugar monitoring, may be granted an exemption. Parents/Guardians should contact their child’s principal to complete the required documentation.
Instructional Use: Teachers may authorize device use for educational purposes in specific classroom situations.
Communication During the School Day
To maintain student focus and minimize disruptions, guardians are asked to contact the school office directly. Staff members can deliver messages or, when necessary, arrange for the student to come to the office. In emergency situations, CPS will issue communications through its official channels. Parents/Guardians are encouraged to keep their contact information up to date in the Parent Portal and download the CPS mobile app to receive timely updates.
Secondary students will be able to access their school email and ROOMS account from their school-issued devices.
Other Prohibited Devices
In addition to cell phones, other entertainment and communication devices are restricted during the school day. These include:
AirPods, earbuds, and headphones, unless used with explicit approval for an educational activity.
iPods, MP3 players, smart watches, smart glasses, other similar items, or any personal entertainment device not issued or approved by the school.
Use During Extracurricular Activities
The law does not apply to before- or after-school activities or travel associated with school events. Students are permitted to use their personal devices during extracurricular travel or while off campus, at the discretion of school staff.
Enforcement and Student Discipline
Students who do not comply with the policy may face disciplinary consequences as outlined in the district’s student code of conduct. Specific disciplinary measures will be addressed at the site level and communicated through each school’s handbook.
Elementary Handbook (pg. 25)
Will Rogers Junior High Handbook (pg. 28)
Claremore High School Handbook (pg. 14)
Choices (Alternative Learning) (pg.10)
Supporting Students Through the Transition
District leaders encourage families to begin conversations now with their children about how this policy will affect their daily routines. Families are also encouraged to collaborate in determining how personal devices will be stored and secured during the school day.
“Our goal is not simply to enforce a law, but to help students re-engage in the classroom and benefit from a more focused learning environment,” Bryan Frazier, Superintendent, said. “We appreciate the partnership of families as we implement this important change.”
For additional questions, parents/guardians are encouraged to contact their child’s principal.
“Thank you for working with us to create a more focused, respectful, and productive learning environment,” CPS leaders said. “We appreciate your support in helping all Zebras succeed.”
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