News Summary
College Station ISD is complying with House Bill 1481, a new Texas law prohibiting students from using personal communication devices during school hours. The law aims to improve student focus and reduce distractions in the learning environment. Students can bring devices but must keep them off during school hours. The policy takes effect on August 13, 2025, and the district is currently developing disciplinary measures. Communication protocols for parents have been established, and the law is part of a broader trend across Texas schools to regulate device usage for enhancing academic performance.
College Station Implements New Law on Student Device Usage
College Station ISD has announced its compliance with House Bill 1481, a new Texas law that prohibits students from using personal communication devices during school hours. This law, which affects all public and charter school districts in Texas, aims to enhance student focus and reduce distractions in the learning environment.
Details of the Policy
According to the new regulations, students are allowed to bring devices such as cell phones, tablets, smartwatches, and Bluetooth headphones to school; however, these devices must be turned off and kept in backpacks, purses, or lockers once the school day begins. The policy will officially take effect on the first day of the 2025-2026 school year, specifically on August 13, 2025.
Although the district has confirmed the implementation of the law, it has not yet specified the disciplinary measures that will be enforced for violations. The district is currently in the process of developing these measures and has stated that public comments are being solicited regarding the policy.
Communication Protocols
During school hours, parents are required to contact their children through the main office, as personal phones will not be accessible to students. The new rules also include provisions for students with medical needs; documentation from a licensed medical professional is necessary to qualify for exemptions related to critical health monitoring, such as diabetes or seizure management.
Context and Background
This legislation, authored by Representative Caroline Fairly, the only Gen Z member of the Texas Legislature, reflects a growing trend across Texas schools to regulate device usage in order to improve student discipline and academic performance. College Station ISD is not alone in this endeavor; several other school districts in Texas are preparing to adopt similar policies in response to the law.
It’s important to note that the state did not allocate any additional funding for school districts to support the implementation of this law, which may pose challenges as schools adjust to the new regulations.
In a related matter, College Station ISD has been addressing ongoing capacity issues within its schools and is working on boundary adjustments. These adjustments are currently open for public comments, which will continue through the end of July. During a recent workshop discussion, the district not only addressed the new policy on device usage but also discussed topics related to school zoning and staff compensation.
Looking Ahead
As the implementation date of August 2025 approaches, the district is committed to developing clear guidelines regarding device usage and maintaining open communication with the community as it navigates these changes. Ultimately, the goal of House Bill 1481 is to create a more focused academic environment for students by minimizing distractions caused by personal devices during school hours.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
College Station School District Revises Phone Policies
College Station ISD Addresses Cell Phone Policy and Zoning Changes
Texas Schools Implement Cell Phone Ban During School Hours
Texas Schools Implement Ban on Wireless Devices During Instructional Hours
Texas A&M School Announce Pause on Undergrad Enrollment Growth
Additional Resources
- KBTX
- Wikipedia: House Bill 1481 (Texas)
- WTAW
- Google Search: College Station ISD cell phone policy
- KBTX Discussions and Decisions
- Google Scholar: school cell phone ban Texas
- KBTX Brazos Valley
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Texas legislation cell phone
- KXXV
- Google News: Texas school cell phone ban
Author: STAFF HERE COLLEGE WRITER
The COLLEGE STATION STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECollegeStation.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in College Station, Brazos County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Brazos Valley Fair & Rodeo, Chilifest, and Aggie Muster. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Brazos Valley, plus leading businesses in education, biotechnology, and retail that power the local economy such as Texas A&M University, Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, and H-E-B. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
