Starting Aug. 14, Northwest ISD officials will implement a new cellphone use policy that prohibits the personal use of cellphones during class time.

The backstory

According to a news release, campus officials met throughout the summer to align standards for cellphone usage in schools. These standards were developed to accomplish the following:

• Balance best practices for a strong learning environment with the need for cellphones during emergencies
• Assist teachers by ensuring student learning is prioritized in the classroom and minimizing distractions

The details

The news release states the following rules will be in place at each school level:

• Elementary schools: cellphones, earbuds and smartwatches must be left in a student’s backpack at all times during the school day.
• Middle schools: cellphones, earbuds and smartwatches must be left in a student’s backpack at all times during the school day. Students may earn the opportunity to use cellphones during lunch.
• High schools: cellphones and earbuds must be left in a student’s backpack during class unless a teacher allows their use for academic purposes. Smartwatches may be worn. Students may use electronic devices in the hallways during passing periods and during lunch.

The news release states students who do not follow these standards will be subject to disciplinary consequences listed in the student code of conduct. Parents and guardians will be notified of any disciplinary action for cellphone usage.