“Here at HISD, we strive to create a safe and distraction-free environment for all students to be successful,” Massey said in the announcement video.
The details
The new policy prohibits the use of “personal communication devices during the school day and on school property." Students can either leave their devices at home or keep them powered off and stored in their backpacks, Massey said.
“When we say devices, we mean personal cellphones, tablets, smartwatches or any electronic device capable of digital communication,” she said. “Students may not use their device for any reason during the instructional day. That means no calls, texts, photos, video recording, social media or internet access.”
Massey said students caught with devices will face three different levels of disciplinary action:
- First offense: The device is confiscated and parents may pick up the device after school.
- Second offense: The device will be held until the end of the next school day.
- Third offense: The device will be held for two full school days.
Why now?
The policy complies with House Bill 1481, which requires schools to prohibit students from using personal communication devices during the school day. The bill was passed by the 89th Texas Legislature in June and is meant to create “phone-free learning environments in classrooms and protect the safety and online privacy of Texas children,” according to an Aug. 1 news release from Gov. Greg Abbott’s office.
“Educators and researchers have raised concerns about the impact that smartphones have on student learning and student engagement,” Abbott said in the release. “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.”
