Introduction to New Cell Phone Policy
Social media and the use of electronic devices at school have contributed to the increase of inappropriate relationships between teachers and students, according to experts. In an effort to combat this issue and create a more distraction-free learning environment, Houston ISD has announced a new cell phone policy. Starting this school year, students at all HISD campuses will no longer be allowed to use their cell phones during the school day due to a new state law.
What the New Policy Entails
The policy prohibits the use of all "personal communication devices." This includes cell phones, smart watches, tablets, headphones, earbuds, and any other electronic device that can be used for communication. According to HISD Chief of Schools Sandi Massey, "Students may not use their device for any reason during the instructional day," which means no calls, texts, photos, video recording, social media, or internet access. Devices should not be visible or audible from the time a student arrives on campus until the last period of the day is over, including lunch and passing periods.
Exceptions to the Policy
Students are allowed to keep their phones powered off in their backpacks or in a designated storage area during the school day. The policy only includes exceptions for approved medical needs, a documented need based on a directive from a qualified physician, or for approved special education needs. The policy does not apply to district-owned devices used for educational purposes.
Disciplinary Action for Violations
HISD has included three levels of disciplinary action for students who violate the new phone policy. The severity of punishment increases with each additional violation of the policy.
- 1st offense: The electronic device is confiscated, and a parent/guardian can pick up the device from the office after school, where the parent/guardian can review the law and district policy.
- 2nd offense: The device is confiscated, and the parent/guardian can pick the device up after one full school day.
- 3rd offense: The device is confiscated, and the parent/guardian can pick the device up after two full school days.
Further offenses will result in "elevated formal disciplinary action," and HISD is not responsible for any lost, stolen, or damaged devices confiscated due to a violation.
State Law and Grant Program
The new state law, House Bill 1481, requires public and open-enrollment charter schools to "adopt policies prohibiting students from using personal wireless communication devices during instructional time." The law does not outline any details regarding punishment or disciplinary action for violations. However, according to the Texas Education Agency (TEA) guidance on HB 1481 compliance, districts must include disciplinary measures in their policy and "may" confiscate a device. Districts with compliant phone policies are eligible for a 2025-26 Phone Free Schools Grant program to pay for secure storage systems. The TEA was allocated $30 million to distribute to participating schools.
Other School Districts and Conclusion
Other Houston-area school districts, such as Humble ISD, Katy ISD, and Fort Bend ISD, are implementing, or have previously implemented, similar phone policies. The specific policies differ for each district. In conclusion, the new cell phone policy implemented by Houston ISD aims to create a more distraction-free learning environment and reduce the risk of inappropriate relationships between teachers and students. By understanding the policy and its exceptions, students and parents can ensure a smooth transition and comply with the new rules. With the potential for grant funding and the support of other school districts, HISD is taking a step in the right direction towards improving the educational experience for its students.
