Personal Electronic Device Policy
Pursuant to Oklahoma Statutes, Section 1-126, Title 70
Disconnecting to Make Connections
Schools that have implemented phone-free environments report several benefits. These include improved student focus, better academic performance, reduced cyberbullying, and enhanced social interaction among students. In addition, it can positively impact school culture which is something Prague Schools continuously strive to improve. A reduction in disciplinary issues is another benefit. A study highlighted by the National Education Association (NEA) found that schools with strict cell phone policies saw fewer classroom disruptions and more engaged learning environments.
This new policy is in agreement with the new state law regarding prohibiting students from using electronic devices from bell-to-bell (as defined in the statute “Bell to bell” means the time between the first bell ringing at the start of the school day to begin instructional time until the dismissal bell at the end of the school day to end instructional time.)
Expectations for Students
Students are prohibited from utilizing cell phones and personal electronic devices while on the campus of a public school district from bell to bell. Exceptions may be made as follows:
Emergency use of cell phones or personal electronic devices by students during the school day. Emergency use includes situations where immediate communication is needed for safety or urgent personal matters. This includes, but is not limited to:
Medical Emergencies
Natural Disasters or Lockdowns
Use of cell phones or personal electronic devices by students who use them to monitor health issues. This includes, but is not limited to, glucose monitoring which may occur multiple times during the school day; or
Students with special needs may use cell phones or personal electronic devices during class time or during the school day if their IEP, Medical Plan, or 504 Plan explicitly requires it as assistive technology for medically or educationally necessary purposes. To qualify for this exception, the use must be listed as a documented accommodation necessary for instruction or communication within the student’s IEP, Medical Plan, or 504 Plan.
This effort helps us create a better learning environment by reducing distractions and encouraging students to stay engaged. Families can always reach their child by calling the school office. Students may request to go to the office to use the phone to call their parents or guardians during the instructional day.
Guidelines for Students & Families
Bringing a Device is a Personal Choice –Prague Public Schools cannot guarantee the safety of personal devices. Students bring their personal electronic devices at their own risk. To avoid loss or damage, we recommend leaving all devices at home or keeping them safely stored in a bag.
Devices Should Stay Out of Sight – Personal devices must be put away and should not be used on campus during instructional time, other than the specific exceptions outlined in this policy. This includes but is not limited to passing periods, bathrooms, and hallways.
Keep Devices on Silent – If a personal device makes noise in class thereby disrupting the educational environment, it will be treated as a policy violation as if the student had the device out.
Lost or Stolen Devices – If students bring a personal device to school, we recommend having a tracking app. Teachers and staff cannot take time from instruction to search for lost or missing devices that students choose to bring to school at their own risk.
Need to Reach Your Student? – In case of an emergency, parents can call the front office, and a message will be delivered to your child.
Students Needing to Call Home – If a student needs to contact a parent, they may request to use the following spaces:
Prague High School
Main or Counselor’s
Office
Prague Middle School
Main or Counselor’s
Office
Elementary and ECC Schools
Main or Counselor’s Office
This policy helps us create a space where students can focus on learning, build strong relationships, and enjoy their school day without unnecessary distractions.
Please remember that Prague Public Schools may not be held responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged devices, even if they have been confiscated.