Personal Communication Device Policy

Why This Policy Matters

In response to updates in the Texas Education Code, Section 37.082, resulting from the passage of House Bill 1481, all public schools in Texas are now required to restrict the use of personal communication devices during the school day. At Southwest ISD, we are implementing this policy to:

• Protect instructional time
  
  
• Reduce distractions
  
  
• Create a focused, respectful learning environment.
  
  

This policy applies to all students across all campuses.

What’s Banned?

Any device capable of sending/receiving messages or playing media must not be used or visible during the school day. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Cell phones & flip phones
  
  
• Earbuds & headphones
  
  
• Tablets & smartwatches
  
  
• Connected glasses (e.g., Google Glass)
  
  
• Radios, pagers, and similar devices
  
  

If it can communicate or play media, it falls under this policy.

Storage Expectations

Devices must be turned off and stored in backpacks or purses — not in pants or jacket pockets. They must remain unseen and unused:

• From the first bell to the last bell
  
  
• In classrooms, restrooms, hallways, and during lunch
  
  
• While walking between classes (no headphones/earbuds visible at all)

What Happens If a Device Is Seen?

• Step 1: A staff member will request the device be turned in.
  
  
• Step 2: It will be labeled with the student’s name and ID.
  
  
• Step 3: In class, the teacher holds it until the period ends. Outside class, it is sent to the front office..
  
  
• Step 4: A Personal Communication Device Warning is filed with the administration.
  
  

 Consequences for Violating the Policy

• First Offense: Device returned to student at day’s end.
  
  
• Second Offense: Parent conference required before return.
  
  
• Third Offense and Beyond:
  
  
• May require a parent/student action plan
  
  
• Possible disciplinary placement
  
  

Refusing to surrender a device will be handled according to the Student Code of Conduct.

Exemptions

Students may request exemptions if:

• A device is part of an Individualized Education Plan (IEP)
  
  
• A physician has issued a documented directive.
  
  
• It is required by law for health or safety reasons.
  
  

Requests must go through a campus principal and will involve a formal committee review.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can my child use their phone at lunch or during passing periods?
A: No. Devices must remain off and stored away all day—from first bell to last bell.

Q: What if my child uses a smartwatch for telling time?
A: Smartwatches capable of communication or media playback are not permitted, regardless of intent.

Q: Can a student keep their phone in their jacket or pants pocket?
A: No. Only backpacks or purses are acceptable storage locations under the law.

Q: What happens if a student refuses to give up their phone?
A: Refusals will be handled according to the Student Code of Conduct, which may include disciplinary actions.

Q: How do I request an exemption for medical or legal reasons?
A: Contact your campus principal to begin the formal committee review process.

Q: Can teachers ever allow phone use?
A: No. The law applies schoolwide and does not allow instructional exceptions unless related to an IEP or legal exemption.

Still Have Questions?

Reach out to your student’s campus office for more information or clarification. Thank you for helping us maintain a safe and distraction-free learning environment!