Parents in Purcell PS, here is a brief look at some of the legislative developments both at the state level in Oklahoma and nationally that could impact our local schools.
Oklahoma State Legislative Session Updates:
Cell Phone Bans: A bill requiring school districts to adopt a "bell-to-bell" cell phone ban in schools has been signed into law and will be effective for the 2025-2026 school year.
Virtual Day Limits: Beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, there will be limits on the use of virtual days by school districts. This will not impact the currently adopted calendar for the 2025-2026 school year, but will impact the following year.
School Choice: Parent Choice Tax Credit program had adjustments to the application process for state tax credits.
Federal "Big Beautiful Bill" and Potential Local Impact
On the national stage, a comprehensive legislative package known as the "Big Beautiful Bill" is under discussion in Washington D.C. While the specifics are still being finalized, here are some proposed elements that could have an impact to our local schools:
Federal School Choice Initiatives: This program provide tax credits to individuals who donate to organizations offering scholarship for K-12 private school tutie. While Oklahoma already has a state-level private school tax credit, a federal program could further expand such options. Local schools can be impacted by loss of enrollment which means a loss of staffing and programs.
Changes to Title I Funding: Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to schools with high numbers or high percentages of children from low-income families. The goal of Title I is to help ensure that all children meet challenging state academic standards. Purcell PS utilizes Title I funds in the following ways:
Hiring additional teachers and support staff
Providing professional development for educators
Purchasing instructional materials and technology
Implement tutoring programs with an aim to improve academic achievement.
Any changes to Title I funding would impact services provided to students.
Changes to Social Safety Nets: The federal bill may include reforms to programs like Medicaid and food assistance (SNAP), potentially introducing work requirements or other eligibility changes.
While not directly related to school funding, any shifts in these programs could impact the overall financial well-being of some Purcell families. This, in turn, could indirectly affect students' learning by altering their access to essential services outside of school.
Federal funding also plays a significant role in Oklahoma's state budget, so any major changes at the federal level could have ripple effects on state allocations to education.
What This Means for Families
Stay Informed: Keep track of the bill's progress and any amendments or changes that are made. Official government websites and reputable news sources can provide updates.
Share Your Thoughts: Reach to Oklahoma Legislators and share your thoughts on legislation that you believe can have a potential negative impact on our community and schools such as diverting resources away from local schools.
Exercise Your Rights: Register to vote and educate yourself on local, state and national issues.
The "Big Beautiful Bill" represents a complex set of proposals with wide-ranging implications. Its potential impact on Title I schools and the families they serve will depend on the final version of the bill and how its provisions are implemented at the state and local levels.
As always, thank you for your support of Purcell Public Schools!