Source – ktul.com
New Cell Phone Policies for Bixby Schools
BIXBY, OKLA. (KTUL) — As Bixby Public Schools prepares for the upcoming school year, it has announced significant updates to its cell phone policies regarding cell phone use and religious texts. Starting in August, students in grades K-9 will face strict restrictions on cell phones and other communication devices.
Under the new policy, students through ninth grade will be prohibited from using cell phones, smart watches, smart glasses, ear pods, headphones, and similar personal wireless devices during school hours. High school students in grades 10-12 will be allowed to use their phones only during non-instructional periods, such as lunch or breaks. However, phones must be turned off and stored out of sight in purses or backpacks throughout the school day.
The district has implemented these measures in response to a marked increase in issues related to cyberbullying, inappropriate content, unauthorized recordings, and decreased academic focus linked to widespread cell phone usage. The new policy aims to mitigate these problems and improve the learning environment for all students.
District’s Stance on Bible Instruction in Schools
In addition to the new cell phone policies, Bixby Public Schools has also addressed recent changes related to the inclusion of the Bible in school curricula. This follows State Superintendent Ryan Walter’s announcement mandating the use of the Bible as instructional support in Oklahoma schools.
Superintendent Rob Miller reassured the community through an update on the district’s website, emphasizing the district’s commitment to upholding students’ and employees’ rights to pray and worship. “Students are already permitted to bring Bibles or other religious texts to school and worship. As the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in 1969, ‘Students do not shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate.’ This principle will continue to guide our actions,” Miller stated.
The district supports the notion of exploring the role of religion within historical and cultural contexts. However, it clarified that its curriculum will not incorporate specific religious doctrines or ideologies as part of its instructional standards.
Maintaining Curriculum Integrity Amid Policy Changes
Despite the changes in policy and state directives, Bixby Public Schools will keep its current curriculum unchanged. The district believes this approach will provide stability and continuity for both students and staff. By maintaining its existing curriculum, Bixby Schools aims to ensure that educational standards remain consistent while respecting new guidelines and community values.
These updates reflect the district’s ongoing efforts to address contemporary challenges in education while adhering to constitutional principles and maintaining educational integrity. As students and parents prepare for the new school year, they can expect these updated cell phone policies to be in effect from August, shaping the educational environment at Bixby Public Schools.
Also Read: Indiana Contemplates State-wide Cell Phone Restrictions in Schools: District Policies Explored
