New law requires Texas schools to ban students from using cell phones. Here’s how Stephenville ISD is calling it.

By SARA VANDEN BERGE

A new law beginning Sept. 1 in Texas prohibits students from using cellphones and other personal communication devices during school hours.

Gov. Greg Abbott signed House Bill 1481, which requires public school districts or open-enrollment charter schools to implement policies prohibiting students from using “personal communication devices” like cell phones, tablets and smartwatches at school.

The bill requires schools to either ban students from bringing devices on campus or find a way for students to store them while on school grounds.

Schools are also required to administer consequences for students who violate the law; exceptions will be made for students with health or safety concerns.

Last year, Texas Education Agency Commissioner Mike Morath encouraged lawmakers to implement a ban in public schools, calling cell phones “extremely harmful” to student progress.

“If it were in my power, I would have already banned them in all schools in the state,” he said.

Now, area school districts are figuring out what to do next.

Stephenville ISD Superintendent Dr. Eric Cederstrom said the district saw this coming and is already ahead of the game.

“We banned cell phones from instructional time last year and allowed them during passing periods and lunchtime, which is no longer allowed by law,” Dr. Cederstrom told Beneath the Surface News.

SISD students will not be required to “turn in” their cell phones during school hours, but will be prohibited from using them.

If a student is caught using a banned device, it will be treated like a violation of the district’s code of conduct, Cederstrom said.

Classes in Stephenville are set to resume Aug. 13.

What do you think about this new law?