Telecommunication Devices Prohibited During School
Based on HB 1481, Texas law now prohibits students from using any type of personal communication device during the school day while on school property.
This includes the following:
- cell phones; tablets;
- non-district issued laptops;
- smartwatches;
- smart glasses;
- wireless headphones and earbuds;
- all other wearable telecommunication devices.
Student Expectations
Students are expected to have all personal telecommunication devices powered off and stored out of sight in their backpack or personal bag, from the time they enter the building until they leave campus at the end of the school day. This expectation applies during class time, passing periods, lunch, while in restrooms and anywhere on campus during the instructional day.
Enforcement and Consequences
To ensure consistent expectations, all staff will reteach and reinforce the district’s guidelines during the first week of school. Violations will be addressed as follows:
Emergency Contact Procedures
Parents/guardians who need to contact their child during the school day must call the campus front office. Staff will ensure the message is delivered in a timely manner.
What Can Parents Do to Help?
- Discuss the new law with your child and the requirement to power off and store devices during the school day.
- Remind your child of the consequences for violating the law.
- Encourage appropriate telecommunication usage.
- Promote the importance of student focus on instruction.
- Make sure your emergency contact information is up-to-date in Skyward and that your child knows important phone numbers.
- Reach out to your campus if you have additional questions or concerns.
Secondary students are encouraged to print a hard copy of their schedule due to not having access to their phone. If students do not have a printed copy, one will be provided on the first day of school.