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Posted: Jul 16, 2025 10:56 AMUpdated: Jul 16, 2025 10:56 AM
Bartlesville Schools to Launch New Year with Facility Upgrades, Program Growth, and Updated Cell Phone Policy
Tom Davis
With nearly four weeks until the new school year begins, Bartlesville Public Schools is gearing up for some changes across the district, according to LaDonna Chancellor, Executive Director of Teaching and Learning on KWON Radio's Community Connection.
The long-awaited expansion will be completed at Ranch Heights Elementary in time for the first day of school. The project includes new early childhood classrooms for Pre-K and Kindergarten students, along with a brand-new library.
At the high school level, two growing programs are expanding. Chancelllor said, "The construction trades program, launched last year, now has a second teacher and will move into the original agriculture building for more shop and classroom space. The district's aviation program also continues to grow, with more than 100 students enrolled this year—marking the first time students will have completed all four years of the program from freshman to senior year."
A significant change this fall is a district-wide update to the cell phone policy. Following new state legislation, high school students will no longer be allowed to use cell phones during the school day from the first bell to the last ball except in emergencies or for documented medical needs. Chancellor said the policy, already in place at the elementary and middle school levels, is expected to improve classroom focus, student posture, and even interpersonal relationships.
“Once students get into the habit, I think everyone will see the benefits,” Chancellor said, noting the change may be difficult at first, but ultimately positive. “We want to help kids breathe, relax, and just enjoy being kids again.”
The first day of school in Bartlesville is Thursday, August 14.
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