House Bill 1481- Law Banning Cell Phones/Electronic Communication Devices
As we prepare for the new school year, we want to share with you how Jarrell ISD will implement House Bill 1481, a new state law requiring schools to prohibit cell phones and electronic communication devices during the school day. The law is designed to support student learning and reduce distractions in the classroom.
We recognize families have mixed feelings about this new law. Please know our goal is to create a learning environment that is safe, focused, and supportive. We’re committed to implementing this change in a way that honors those values, and we want to reassure you that student safety and communication continue to be a top priority.
To do that, we formed a committee of students, parents, and staff to develop a comprehensive plan for Jarrell ISD to comply with the law. Students are required to keep their electronic devices off and stored in their backpacks for the duration of the school day. It starts at the first bell and ends at dismissal. Students caught violating the law will face the following consequences.
- 1st Offense - Phone is confiscated - Student picks it up at the end of the day- Parent/guardian is notified
- 2nd Offense - Phone is confiscated - only released to parent/guardian - Saturday School assigned
- 3rd Offense - Phone is confiscated - only released to parent/guardian - Consequence assigned
Now is a great time to begin talking with your student about this new state law and helping them understand the change and what it will mean for their school day. When schools and families work together, students thrive.