State Superintendent of Public Instruction Lindel Fields today announced his support for two measures advancing through the Oklahoma Legislature: SB 1189 by Sen. Adam Pugh, which provides funding for school security, and SB 1719 by Sen. Ally Seifried, which extends the prohibition on student use of personal electronic devices. Both measures align with the Oklahoma State Department of Education’s ongoing priorities of improving learning environments and ensuring student safety statewide.

SB 1189 provides dedicated funding to help districts strengthen campus safety infrastructure or add security staff. Continued investment in school security remains a top priority for families and educators across Oklahoma as districts work to maintain safe, secure learning environments.

“The safety of our students and educators is paramount to learning,” said Superintendent Fields. “Families deserve confidence that schools are secure, and districts must have the resources necessary to maintain or improve meaningful safety measures.”

SB 1719 extends the current prohibition on student use of cell phones and personal electronic devices during the instructional day on school campuses. Educators across the state have increasingly identified cell phone use as a significant classroom disruption that impacts student engagement, mental focus and academic performance. These devices are also frequently used in incidents of bullying, both on and off school grounds.

The bill builds on legislation first enacted last year and reinforces a statewide commitment to banning phones during the school day in order to protect instructional time and improve classroom culture.

“Public schools exist to educate and prepare the next generation for success,” Fields said. “Protecting instructional time by reducing digital distractions helps ensure students can fully engage in learning and develop the focus and discipline necessary for long-term achievement.”

Superintendent Fields expressed appreciation to Sen. Pugh and Sen. Seifried for their leadership and encouraged continued legislative support for both measures as they advance through the legislative process.

SB 1189 and SB 1719 are currently under consideration in the Oklahoma Legislature. The state superintendent will announce support for additional education measures as the session continues.