Idabel schools start 2025-2026 year with high energy kickoff

IDABEL, Ok. (KTAL/KMSS) – Students in Idabel Public Schools are officially back in class, and Superintendent Dr. Alan Bryant says the energy is high for the start of the 2025–2026 school year.

Bryant noted excitement from both students and staff, particularly with the addition of several new coaches and the expansion of programs in the high school’s Agriculture Sciences Department. He says those classes now serve more than 60% of the high school student body and have seen strong success in state competitions.

One notable change this year is Oklahoma’s new statewide cell phone law, which bans student use from bell to bell. Bryant says elementary and middle schools already had similar rules in place, but high school students will see the most significant shift. The district will follow handbook policies for any violations.

Bryant encourages parents to stay engaged and communicate with teachers and administrators throughout the year, adding that schools are “a microcosm of the community.” He also hopes that students participate in extracurricular activities in addition to their academics.

“We’re looking for a lot of great things with our students this year,” Bryant said. “Get involved, be a part of your community, and let’s go, Warriors.”