Tulsa Public Schools ban cell phones for upcoming school year

TULSA, Okla. — Tulsa Public Schools announced that cell phones, smart watches and headphones will not be allowed during the upcoming school year.

TPS said for high school students, devices should be turned off and put away during all instructional time throughout the school day. The devices should not be seen or used at any point during class periods, said TPS.

Elementary and middle school students are expected to turn off and put away devices from the time they arrive on campus, until school is dismissed for the day. This also includes cell phones, smart watches and headphones, said TPS.

TPS acknowledged the concern students and parents may have regarding communication with each other during the day. TPS said every school is prepared to make those connections with dedicated team members who are committed to ensuring the safety and accessibility for students.

TPS said that having devices in the classroom can negatively impact academic outcomes and become a dangerous distraction.

You can learn more about Tulsa Public School's new cell phone policy by clicking here .