New Caney ISD students must keep cellphones and other electronic devices silenced and put away during school hours under a new state-mandated policy.

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During NCISD's July 21 regular board meeting, trustees unanimously approved the district’s new student code of conduct, which includes a new cellphone policy that aligns with House Bill 1481. The bill was passed by state lawmakers in June.

Under the new policy, students will be required to keep “personal communication devices”—including cellphones, text messaging devices, laptops and tablets—silent and stored in backpacks throughout the school day, according to a news release from NCISD. Students will be able to use communication devices before and after school.

HB 1481 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.

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According to the release, NCISD can authorize student communication device use if:

• It helps implement an Individualized Education Program or Section 504 plan for students with disabilities.
• A student has a need documented by a “qualified physician."
• The district needs to comply with health or safety protocols required by local policy or by law.

Staff members may confiscate the device of students who do not follow NCISD’s new cellphone policy, according to the release.

Kevin Vu contributed to this report.