Oklahoma House Sends Virtual School Day Limits to Governor

The Oklahoma House has passed several significant education bills that now await the governor's decision. One bill mandates a 'bell-to-bell' cellphone ban in all school districts for the next academic year, after which districts may opt out if they find the policy ineffective. Supporters argue this trial period balances state direction with local control, while critics express concerns about reduced local autonomy. Another bill limits most public schools to just two virtual instruction days per year, citing concerns that excessive virtual days undermine student learning and contribute to poor academic outcomes. Proponents of this restriction believe more face-to-face instruction will boost educational performance, while some lawmakers argue that virtual days can still provide meaningful instruction if properly structured and should remain an option for emergencies. These legislative moves reflect ongoing debates about how best to improve education in Oklahoma, weighing state mandates against local flexibility and differing views on instructional methods.