Personal Device Policy FAQ

HB 1481 - Student Personal Communications Devices in Schools
Frequently Asked Questions

What does “school day” or “instructional day” mean?

The school day or instructional day encompasses the first bell to the last bell, including lunch and passing periods. As a public school district, we are required to follow this law, and we ask for your support in helping us enforce it consistently.

 

How can I reach my student during the school day?
If you need to get in touch with your student during the school day, please contact the school’s front office. Our staff will pass along your message or arrange for your student to return your call if needed.  In case of an urgent situation, we will ensure your child receives the information as quickly as possible. We kindly ask that you avoid calling or texting your student directly, as they are expected to keep their phones powered off and stored away during the school day. 

 

What if there’s a school emergency?
The safety of our students and staff is and remains our top priority, and all campuses follow the established Standard Response Protocols when an emergency situation arises.  We certainly understand the need for families to know their students are safe, and once safety has been established, students may be allowed to access their devices at the direction of campus, district, or law enforcement officials. Parents will also be notified through our emergency notification system.

 

Will this law apply to extracurriculars or after-school activities?

No. The law only applies during the school day. Students may use their devices after the final bell, including for extracurricular activities or transportation needs.

 

Can my student use their phone on the school bus?
Yes. The law only applies on school property during the school day. Students may use personal devices before arriving at school and after the final bell. However, bus riders must follow the rules and expectations outlined in the Bus Rider’s and Student-Parent Handbooks. 

 

What about smartwatches? Can students wear them?

House Bill 1481 prohibits the use of smartwatches; therefore, students may not wear smartwatches or use any kind of personal communication device during the school day.  The law defines a “personal communication device” as a telephone, cell phone (smartphone or flip phone), tablet, smartwatch, radio device, device, or any other electronic device capable of telecommunication or digital communication.”  Limited exceptions as defined in state law will be allowed.

In accordance with state law, if a student is found using a smartwatch to send or receive messages, make phone calls, engage in any form of communication, or utilize the device in any manner not expressly permitted under statutory exceptions, the smartwatch shall be subject to immediate confiscation. Such conduct shall be deemed a violation of the district’s personal communication device policy. Accordingly, the student will be subject to disciplinary action consistent with the established code of conduct.

 

What are the exceptions?

State law allows limited use of personal communication devices during the school day under the following exceptions:

 

1.      When necessary to implement an individualized education program, a plan created under Section 504, Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. Section 794), or a similar program or plan;

 

2.     By a student with a documented need based on a directive from a qualified physician; or

 

3.     When necessary to comply with a health or safety requirement imposed by law or as part of the district's or school's safety protocols.

 

Can students still bring and use a personal laptop instead of a district-issued laptop?

No. House Bill 1481 prohibits students use of personal laptops, tablets, or other devices during the school day. All instructional technology must be district-issued and monitored. EMS ISD provides each student with a laptop to ensure a consistent and secure learning environment. Students who have not been issued a district-issued laptop will have the opportunity to do so at the campus.

 

Can my student use their phone in the restroom?
No. In accordance with the new law, the use of phones in restrooms and locker rooms is prohibited and must remained powered off and stored away (out-of-sight) throughout the entire instructional day, including during restroom breaks. This is part of ensuring compliance with the law and protecting student privacy in restrooms.

 

What if my student walks home and needs their phone for safety?
Students may access and use their phones after the final bell. The law applies only during the school day, so phones can be turned on once the dismissal bell rings.

 

What happens if my student places their device in their pocket?

The personal device must remain off and stored away (out-of-sight).  However, if it becomes visible, makes noise, or is accessed in any way, it will be treated as a violation of the code of conduct.

 

What happens if a phone rings or vibrates in a backpack during class?

Personal communication devices should be powered off and stored away during the school day. If the device causes a disruption, even unintentionally, it may be confiscated and treated as a violation.

 

What happens to my student’s cell phone if it’s confiscated for a violation? Cell phones are expensive, and I don’t want the phone to get lost.

We understand that personal devices are valuable. If a student’s phone is confiscated, it will be securely stored in a designated area and logged with your student’s name and ID number. Only authorized staff will have access to confiscated devices and may be picked up only by a parent or a parent designee (adult).

 

What if my student forgets something at home or has an appointment? Can they check their phone to let me know?

No. House Bill 1481 prohibits the use of personal communication devices during the school day; therefore, students may not use their phones to contact parents during the school day, even for things like forgotten items or appointments. If a student needs to contact a parent or guardian, they can visit the front office for assistance. 

 

We encourage families to communicate any planned appointments or early checkouts as soon as possible, preferably before the school day begins. If an unexpected situation arises, such as an early appointment or a need to pick up your child, the front office will contact the student directly by notifying the classroom.

 

Can my student check the EMS ISD (ParentSquare) app on their phone for updates from a coach or sponsor?

No. EMS ISD (ParentSquare) and all academic tools must be accessed on district-issued devices during school hours. ParentSquare correspondence will be sent to the student’s EMS ISD email account during the school day.  

 

Can my student use a messaging app on their EMS ISD issued laptop to contact me during the day?
No. Personal messaging apps are not permitted on district issued devices.  If your child needs to get in touch with you, they should go through the front office or a staff member.

 

Can my student record a presentation or take video/photos for a class project using their phone?

No. House Bill 1481 prohibits the use of personal devices during the school day. Personal devices may not be used for recording, video, or for photo purposes during the school day. Teachers will provide approved alternatives for projects requiring media during the school day, and the student will be able to use personal devices to complete required assignments outside of the school day.

 

Can my student use their phone in the nurse’s office to update me on how they’re feeling?

We fully recognize the concerns you may have when your child is not feeling well. While the law prohibits the use of personal devices during school hours, including in the nurse's office, please be assured that our school nurse will contact you directly if your child is required to go home or if there are any health-related concerns.  At that time, if you wish to visit with your student by phone, the nurse can facilitate that discussion using the nurse’s office phone.  We appreciate your understanding as we work to follow the law while prioritizing and supporting the well-being of our students.

 

What if my student has anxiety and checking their phone helps them calm down?

We understand that some students may use their phones as a coping mechanism. However, under state law, the use of personal devices is not permitted during the school day. If your child is experiencing anxiety that affects their ability to focus or remain regulated, please reach out to the campus counselor.

Our schools have established support systems in place designed to assist students in managing those challenges without reliance on personal devices. We are committed to providing the necessary resources to help your child thrive in a supportive environment.

 

What if my student is a student with early release? Can they use their phone once they sign out?
Yes.  Once the student is off campus, they may use their personal devices.  Personal communication devices during the school day must remain powered off and stored away. 

 

Can my student use their phone if they’re having a medical emergency in a restroom or in a situation in which they are in imminent danger during the school day?

Yes. In an emergency situation where staff aren’t immediately accessible, we encourage students to use their best judgment to ensure their safety. If a student utilizes their phone to seek help during such an emergency, we will address this circumstance with understanding and will evaluate each case individually and appropriately.