Bruh. BE NICE! Campaign — Building a Culture of Kindness

Cleveland Schools is committed to creating a culture of kindness, respect, and support for our students and families. This year, we’re expanding that effort with the “Bruh. BE NICE.” campaign — an initiative focused on teaching empathy, kindness, and positive conflict resolution.

New this year, students will learn the “Peace Sign” approach — a practical, research-based tool that helps students handle conflict and social challenges in a healthy, positive way. Look for monthly lessons, school-wide activities, and even “Bruh. BE NICE.” t-shirts designed to remind us all to lead with kindness at school and in our community.

📅 Family Fun Night – September 26

We’re kicking off this campaign with a Family Fun Night on September 26. Join us for an evening of fun, connection, and learning how we can work together to support our students. Enjoy hands-on activities, meet other families, learn about the “Peace Sign” approach, and hear how you can support this effort at home. Dinner is provided, and there will be prizes and giveaways for those who attend!

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BARK – Helping Keep Kids Safe Online and On Social Media

In November, Cleveland Schools is partnering with BARK, a leading organization in student online safety, to help educate our students, staff, and parents about the dangers and responsibilities of smartphones, internet access, and social media.

• Student Sessions: BARK will be on campus the first week of November working directly with 4th and 5th-grade students through two engaging, hands-on sessions. These lessons will cover the risks of technology misuse and how to build healthy digital habits. Staff will also receive training on how to reinforce these safety practices in the classroom.
• Parent Event — November 4: We strongly encourage every parent to join us for a public screening of BARK’s eye-opening online safety documentary. This film explores how unfiltered internet access impacts developing brains and shifts societal norms in harmful ways. This is a must-see for every parent.

There will be BARK child phone giveaways, district prizes, and dinner provided for all attendees.

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New State Law: Cell Phones, Smartwatches, and Bluetooth Earbuds Prohibited on Campus

Why This Matters for Learning

Research consistently shows that cell phones, smartwatches, and Bluetooth earbuds are major distractions in the classroom. Even when not actively used, their presence reduces attention span, comprehension, and retention.

• A 2017 study in the Journal of Educational Psychology found that digital distractions can lower comprehension by up to 20%.
• Research from Computers in Human Behavior (2016) revealed that simply having a phone nearby — even if unused — leads to significantly lower performance on problem-solving tasks.
• Common Sense Media (2022) reports that regular device use during school hours increases anxiety, reduces academic engagement, and lowers achievement.

By removing phones and smartwatches from learning environments, we are protecting students’ ability to focus, learn, and engage without constant digital interruptions.

Device Policy Details:

In accordance with Oklahoma state law, Cleveland Schools prohibits the use of cell phones, smartwatches capable of communication, and Bluetooth earbuds on campus.

• Primary, Intermediate, and Middle Schools: Phones and Bluetooth enabled smartwatches and earbuds must be stored in a locked locker. Phones concealed on the student — even if not in use — are considered a violation.
• High School: Bluetooth enabled smartwatches and earbuds must be stored in a locked locker. Phones must be turned off and placed in a Yondr bag during first-hour class and remain secured until the end of the school day.

Consequences:

• 1st Offense: Device confiscated. Phone lock-up for 3 days or 2 days of ISD.
• 2nd Offense: Device confiscated. Phone lock-up for 5 days or 2 days OSS. Parent must retrieve the device.
• 3rd Offense: Device confiscated. Phone lock-up for 7 days or 5 days OSS. Parent must retrieve the device.
• 4th Offense: Long-term suspension.

Administration reserves the right to adjust consequences based on the severity of the violation or attempts to bypass the system.

Smartwatches for Fitness (Approved Examples):

We understand that some students use wearable devices for fitness tracking rather than communication. Below are examples of acceptable devices that do not have call or text capabilities:

✅ Device	Features	Notes
Garmin Vivofit 4	Steps, distance, calories, sleep	1-year battery, no charging
Garmin Vivofit Jr. 3	Steps, sleep, activity	Kid-friendly design
Fitbit Ace 3	Steps, activity, sleep	For kids but works for adults
OZO Fitness SC 3D	Steps, distance, calories	Simple pedometer
3DFitBud Simple Counter	Steps only	No apps, no Bluetooth
Timex Fitness Band	Basic activity tracking	No phone connection

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Attendance Matters — Every Day Counts

At Cleveland Schools, we know that showing up matters. Attendance isn’t just about being present — it’s directly tied to student success.

Why Attendance Is Critical:

Students who miss just 2 days a month (18 per year) are considered chronically absent, leading to:

• Lower reading proficiency by 3rd grade.
• A 20% lower graduation rate than their peers.
• Average test scores 20 points lower at the end of the year.
• Lower GPA — 2.65 for chronically absent students vs. 3.2 for regular attenders.

The American Academy of Pediatrics also emphasizes that regular attendance builds stronger peer connections and better emotional and social skills.

🚸 How Families Can Help:

• Stick to consistent bedtimes and morning routines.
• Schedule doctor visits and family trips outside of school hours when possible — Fridays are best!
• Talk to your child about why attendance matters, even on tough days.
• Reach out to the school if barriers arise — we are here to help.

Every day matters. Every student matters. Let’s work together to help every child succeed.

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✅ In Summary

Cleveland Schools continues to grow with programs that support student well-being, safety, and success. We are proud to partner with families to create a community where students thrive — academically, emotionally, and socially.