Norman

Operation School Bell®

About The Program

Operation School Bell is the signature program of Assistance League Norman, dedicated to helping children arrive at school confident, prepared, and ready to learn. Each year, we serve approximately 1,500 students in Norman and Little Axe Public Schools by providing brand-new clothing, shoes, personal care items, and books.

For many families, these essentials can be out of reach. Operation School Bell® removes that barrier by ensuring students have what they need to feel comfortable and included among their peers. Beyond meeting basic needs, the program supports improved attendance, boosts self-esteem, and helps set the foundation for academic success.

Through this hands-on program, our volunteers create a welcoming and respectful experience for every child—because we believe every student deserves the opportunity to thrive.

Every child leaves with is so much more—confidence, joy, and a renewed sense of hope for the future..

Annual Statistics

1,500
Students Clothed In Cleveland County

100%
100% of the students surveyed show improved self-confidence and school attendance

At Operation School Bell, every child gets the VIP treatment. We make sure each student—grades Pre-K through 12—feels seen, valued, and confident. By helping kids look and feel like they belong, we take the pressure off what they’re wearing so they can focus on what really matters: learning, growing, and being a kid.

When kids have what they need to show up every day, they’re more likely to stay in school, learn to read, and build a brighter future. And for many of them, OSB is full of meaningful firsts:

The first time they’ve had brand-new underwear or their own toothbrush

The first time they’ve picked out fresh, stylish clothes just for them

The first time they’ve worn shoes that actually fit

These small moments spark big confidence—and that’s where the magic begins.

“The School Bell Program through the Assistance League of Norman is an incredible resource for students in need. Their team provides clothing, shoes, and essentials with warmth, dignity, and genuine care. The process is organized, respectful, and student-centered, helping kids feel confident and ready to learn. Our school community is grateful for its commitment to supporting local children and making a meaningful difference in their daily lives.”

School Counselor

“I am an elementary counselor at Norman Public Schools. I feel beyond blessed by the resources we have in Norman, especially the Assistance League of Norman’s Operation School Bell program. It is so helpful when parents reach out about clothing concerns that I have a solution to offer them. The women involved are so easy to work with and supportive of our students. It is heartwarming to see the joy in our kids’ eyes during the entire trip. They feel important and special and immediately start asking when can we go again…best day ever! So thankful to this amazing organization.”

Taylor McDaniel, Counselor

“Operation School Bell is a vital resource to so many children in our city. The staff and volunteers are kind and accommodating to the needs of our schools, children and families. Many children at my school do not get to go back to school shopping. And without Operation School Bell, many wouldn’t receive any new clothing or shoes for the year. We are so grateful to partner with the Assistance League of Norman and participate in their wonderful program.”

Maddie Bright, Counselor

“Operational School Bell consistently supports students in the Norman and Little Axe communities by creating a delightful shopping experience with new clothing, undergarments, coats, personal hygiene items, a stuffed animal and a new book of their choice. An additional support is a voucher for new shoes at a local community department store that is given to each student. As the retired director of counseling and student advocacy, I have witnessed the miracles that happen to students for over 25 years. The absolute delight in picking out their own clothing and the pride they have wearing “in style” clothing to school transforms students. Operation School Bell helps students feel confident and ready for school when they are dressed like their peers. When student feel confident, they are more ready to learn.”

Sharon Heatly, Counselor

Get Involved With Operation School Bell

Why It Matters

Meeting essential needs helps students feel confident, included and ready to learn.

A new pair of shoes or properly fitting clothes may seem small, but for a child, those essentials can shape confidence, school attendance and the ability to fully participate in the classroom.

Operation School Bell helps students feel prepared, valued and included by providing necessities with dignity and care. When basic needs are met, children are better able to focus on learning, build self-esteem and engage confidently with peers and teachers.