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La Porte ISD Cell Phone Policy

In accordance with Texas State Law HB-1481, the district prohibits the use of a personal communication devices while on school property during the school day, including passing periods and lunch. This includes devices like cell phones, smartwatches, earbuds, and tablets, with exceptions for documented medical or safety needs. All devices must either be left at home or secured for the duration of the school day in their backpack, locker or vehicle to minimize distractions and promote a focused learning environment.

This policy applies to all La Porte ISD classrooms, hallways, restrooms, cafeterias, and other school areas during school hours. Teachers, administrators, and staff will actively monitor and enforce these expectations. 

La Porte ISD’s policy supports its technology integration efforts. Every student has access to a district-issued device, allowing them to engage in blended learning without needing personal communication devices. This initiative fosters a more focused, productive educational environment. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • In accordance with state law, the district prohibits the use of a personal communication device. The school day requires students to concentrate, engage in learning, collaborate with peers, foster face-to-face relationships, and engage with educators. Research indicates that cell phones can lower test performance, while social media and phone use diminish valuable growth opportunities.

  • Texas House Bill 1481, signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott on June 22, 2025, bans K-12 students from using personal communication devices, such as cell phones, tablets, and smartwatches, during the school day in public and charter schools. The law, effective September 1, 2025, requires school districts to adopt policies prohibiting these devices being used by students on school property.

  • This policy will begin on the opening day of the 2025-2026 academic year.

    • Cell phones (both phones that connect to the internet and non-internet connected phones that send and receive text messages, and make phone calls.
    • Personal electronic devices such as tablets and video game consoles.
    • Airpods, earbuds and Bluetooth connected headphones.
    • Smartwatches and fitness trackers that connect to the internet.

  • The school maintains robust safety procedures, featuring an armed officer at each campus, well-trained personnel, advanced security systems, and emergency communication tools. These include an alert badge for each staff member, which, when triggered, notifies campus and district leadership as well as administration. Furthermore, the school acknowledges the risks of cell phone use in crises, as they may hinder response efforts through distractions, inaccurate information, and excessive communication, thus slowing down vital directives.

  • In emergency situations, school staff will utilize designated phones. The school will ensure swift communication is established between students and parents when necessary.

  • No, the policy prohibits cell phone use throughout the entire school day, including lunch and transition times between classes.

  • Disciplinary measures are set by district and campus administrators, involving device confiscations, administrative conferences, in-school suspension, contact with parents for pickup. Continued violations may result in placement at the District Alternative Education Program (DAEP).

  • Students will have access to the necessary technology and resources needed for educational activities.

  • The school allows students to access their phones once the school day concludes or to make use of available school phones to arrange pickup or connect with parents.

  • Parents are encouraged to notify school officials of any documented medical or safety needs that necessitate phone use.

  • The school has developed specific plans for emergencies such as lockdowns and evacuations. These measures guarantee student security and prompt parent communication, independent of student-owned devices.

  • Students may utilize their phones prior to and following school hours to stay in touch with parents. The school recommends that parents create travel plans with their children, specifying pickup locations and schedules.

  • The Personal Communication Device Policy is in effect solely during regular school hours. Activities after school, including sports, fine arts performances, practice sessions, and club gatherings, are exempt. During these occasions, phone usage depends on the judgment of the overseeing coach, director, or sponsor.