New School Year, New Rules
As the new school year begins in August, Texas students face a major change: a statewide classroom cellphone ban under House Bill 1481. The law, passed earlier this year, prohibits public and charter school students from using phones, smart watches, headphones, and similar devices throughout the school day, including during lunch and passing periods.
Friendswood ISD’s Approach: Locked Pouches
Friendswood ISD will require students to lock their phones in district-issued pouches, which must be stored in backpacks or lockers. The rule applies across all areas of school property—classrooms, hallways, restrooms, and cafeterias—during instructional hours.
HISD to Enforce Device Storage
The Houston Independent School District plans to have students turn off their devices and keep them at home or secured in backpacks or lockers. Penalties escalate with repeat violations. The first offense allows pickup after school. The second offense holds the device for one full school day, and the third for two days.
Mixed Reaction from Parents
Some parents, like Crystal Castillo, see value in limiting distractions.
“Classrooms are pretty crowded… it’s a struggle to get the kids to lock in and pay attention,” she said. However, she expressed concern about communication in emergencies.
“It’s a security thing,” Castillo added, noting some parents are seeking alternative tracking options like location necklaces.
Policy Exceptions and Support
The Texas Education Agency allows exceptions for medical needs, physician documentation, or Special Education accommodations. Schools implementing the policy may apply for grant funding to cover costs of storage solutions such as pouches and lockers.
Deadline to Comply
All school districts must implement the new cellphone policy by September 18, 2025.
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