The Office of Educational Quality and Accountability (OEQA) has completed the Cellphone-Free Schools Grant Program, giving out more than $500,000 to Oklahoma districts to purchase storage solutions that will help implement the new bell-to-bell cell phone policy. The policy was established under Senate Bill 139, authored by Sen. Ally Seifried (R-Claremore) and Rep. Chad Caldwell (R-Enid), and signed into law by Governor Kevin Stitt in May 2025. The grant program itself was funded through Senate Bill 1129, which appropriated $500,000 to support implementation beginning in the 2025–2026 school year.
Funding and Participation
Ninety-one districts applied for the program, and eighty-six received awards. Grants were reviewed and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Each district was eligible for up to $20 per student, with a maximum grant of $50,000, to buy lockable pouches, storage lockers, or other secure storage options.
OEQA opened the program on July 1 and disbursed funds in less than a month. That quick turnaround ensured districts had resources in place before the first day of school.
Impact on Students
The grants are helping schools prepare classrooms that are centered on learning rather than digital distractions. Research shows that limiting student access to cell phones during the school day improves attention, reduces disruptions, and strengthens engagement.
One study found that student test scores rose when schools adopted phone bans, with the biggest gains among lower-performing students. Other studies highlight stronger classroom interaction and healthier school climates when phones are set aside.
Support among families and the public is also growing. A July 2025 Pew Research Center survey found that 74 percent of U.S. adults favor banning cell phones during class, and an increasing share now support restrictions for the entire school day.
Strengthening Classrooms Across Oklahoma
Through the Cellphone-Free Schools Grant Program, OEQA partnered with the legislature and districts to put practical tools in place for the successful implementation of this new policy. With local policies adopted and cell phone storage solutions in place, students are entering the year in classrooms with fewer distractions and more opportunities to focus on learning.
