Pro Tem Paxton, Senator Thompson Receive Passage of Senate Bill 758 to Strengthen In-Person Learning Standards

OKLAHOMA CITY – Senate Pro Tempore Lonnie Paxton, R-Tuttle, and Senator Kristen Thompson, R-Edmond, today successfully passed Senate Bill 758 off the Senate floor, marking a significant step toward ensuring Oklahoma students receive the in-person instruction necessary for academic success.

Senate Bill 758 prohibits school districts and charter schools from counting virtual instruction days toward the 180-day or 1,080-hour school year requirement, except under specific circumstances outlined in the bill.

“Our students deserve a high-quality education, and that begins with ensuring in-person learning remains the foundation of our school system,” Pro Tem Paxton said. “Virtual instruction should be a tool for emergency situations, not a substitute for the critical, hands-on learning experiences that take place in the classroom. Senate Bill 758 provides the necessary guardrails to keep our schools focused on direct engagement between students and teachers while maintaining a degree of flexibility for truly exceptional circumstances. This is about striking the right balance to ensure that students, parents and educators can rely on a strong and structured learning environment.”

Beginning in the 2026-2027 school year, districts and charter schools will be permitted to close and provide virtual instruction for up to two days or 12 hours per school year, but only under the following conditions:

• The State Superintendent of Public Instruction approves a virtual instruction plan adopted by the school district board of education or charter school governing board.
• The governor issues a state of emergency or proclamation affecting school operations.
• The school district board of education or charter school governing board authorizes the use of virtual instruction.

Additionally, Senate Bill 758 mandates the State Department of Education to publish an annual report by June 30, 2027, and each year thereafter, detailing the use of virtual instruction across Oklahoma schools. The report will be made available online and submitted to the governor and legislative leaders.

“This measure ensures accountability and transparency while preserving limited virtual learning options, when necessary,” Senator Thompson said. “Parents expect schools to be open and fully operational throughout the academic year. While technology can serve as a resource in emergencies, it should never replace the daily structure, and social interaction that come with traditional classroom instruction. Senate Bill 758 ensures that students aren’t missing out on critical learning time while still allowing for emergency closures when absolutely necessary. By requiring annual reporting, we are also ensuring that the public and policymakers have clear insight into how virtual instruction is being utilized across the state.”

The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for further consideration.