CISD 101: Did You Know? Carroll ISD Updates Cell Phone Policy to Comply With State Law

Beginning with the 2025-26 school year, Carroll ISD has updated its personal communications device policy to comply with House Bill 1481, a new Texas law requiring all public school districts to prohibit student use of personal communication devices during the instructional day.

What's Changing?

While CISD already had guidelines in place for responsible device usage, the updated policy now aligns with state-mandated restrictions that apply to all students in grades K-12. This includes not only cell phones, but also smartwatches, Bluetooth-enabled earbuds and headphones, tablets, and other internet-connected devices used for communication.

Students may bring devices to school, but they must be turned off and stored out of sight (in a backpack, locker, or purse) during the entire instructional day, from the first bell to dismissal. This includes class time, lunch, and passing periods, as well as while riding on CISD school buses before or after school.

Please note, this policy does not interfere with CISD BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policy. Students in grades 5-12 are permitted to bring their own District-allowed laptops, Chromebooks, and MacBooks for instructional purposes only. The use of these devices will be at the discretion of the classroom teacher and campus principal. You can read more about our BYOD policy and specifications on District-allowed devices here.

Helping Students Stay Focused

The intention behind HB 1481 is to reduce distractions and protect valuable instructional time. By minimizing device usage during the school day, CISD is supporting a focused, face-to-face learning environment for all students.

Beyond academics, this law also encourages students to be more present in their daily interactions, fostering deeper social connections, building stronger communication skills, and promoting meaningful human engagement. Limiting screen time allows students to connect more authentically with their peers and teachers, helping to cultivate a healthier school culture grounded in personal interaction and mutual respect.

Support for Emergencies and Medical Needs

CISD recognizes that families may still need to reach one another during the school day. In urgent situations:

• Parents may contact their child through the campus front office or email them at their District email address.
• Students who need to contact a parent can email their parent from their District email address, or notify a teacher or administrator for assistance.
• Accommodations are available for students who require device access for documented medical needs (e.g., diabetes monitoring). These should be outlined in the student's 504 Plan or Individualized Education Plan (IEP).

What About Discipline?

Devices used during restricted times will be confiscated according to District discipline policy. Repeated violations may result in progressive consequences. CISD encourages families to review the full policy with their students before the start of the school year. You may review the list of consequences here.

Looking Ahead

District leaders will continue monitoring the impact of this policy and providing support to families and campuses during implementation. As always, CISD is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and focused learning environment, and this policy is one step forward in protecting that mission.

We have prepared an FAQ to answer any additional questions you may have. You may find more information on our Personal Communication Devices webpage.