Smartphones don’t necessarily make one smarter, especially in the classroom. At the Aug. 18 school board meeting board members voted 6-1 to uphold their phone policy to adhere with the new state law banning cell phones in the classroom.
“For clarification, this is the policy that continues the policy that we established last year with no cell phones during school time, but expands it to to include the state law that’s just passed,” Board President Anne Halsey said.
This policy restricts students from using personal communication devices on school property during the school day. It gives district employees the authority to confiscate a student’s communication device that is used in violation of the policy.
Exceptions to the rule include phone use if the student’s use is necessary for implementation of a student’s individualized education program, a 504 plan or a similar program or plan. Exceptions are also made if a student’s use is required due to a documented need based on a directive from a qualified physician. Students who violate this policy or any regulations shall be subject to discipline in accordance with the Board-adopted Student Code of Conduct.
On Aug. 1, Governor Greg Abbott signed Senate Bill 2420 and House Bill 1481 into law to create a phone-free learning environment in classrooms and to protect the safety and online privacy of Texas children. House Bill 1481 requires schools to adopt policies prohibiting students from using personal communication devices, such as cell phones and smart watches, during the school day. Policies must either prohibit personal devices on school property or provide a designated storage area for devices during the school day.
“Educators and researchers have raised concerns about the impact that smartphones have on student learning and student engagement,” Governor Abbott said. “Experts have explained that smartphones and social media affect the mental health of children. If we are going to be number one in education, it is going to require the undivided attention of our students in the classroom.”
During the school board meeting, Halsey acknowledged school staff in reference to the phone ban.
“Appreciation to all of the teachers and administrators who are having to implement that policy, which I am in favor of, but I think is difficult to oversee.”
