Cell Phone Guidelines

This page contains specific details about Del Valle ISD’s plan to update policy regarding student use of personal electronic devices on campus. These changes are required under HB 1481, which was adopted by the state legislature and signed by the governor in summer of 2025.

We know how central phones, earbuds, smartwatches, and other personal technology have become in everyday life. But we also know that these same devices can be a major distraction during instructional time.

The Del Valle ISD Board of Trustees will consider adoption of new Board Policy FNCE(Local) at their August 19, 2025 meeting. This proposed change will align our policy with state law and promotes a more focused, respectful, and engaging learning environment, free from unnecessary distractions.

We plan to implement these changes in two phases, approaching it with patience and clarity.

What does this mean?

• Students are expected to have personal communication devices off and out of sight at all times during the school day.
• This means they should be securely stored in a backpack or locker.
• Students may also leave personal communication devices at home or in a vehicle.
• Devices are not permitted at any time during the entire school day, including passing periods and lunch.
• Exceptions will be made for documented medical needs and special education accommodations. Families must send a request for this accommodation in writing to the campus administrators.

What personal electronic devices are restricted?

• Cell phones
• Smart watches
• Headphones or earbuds
• Gaming devices
• Personal tablets and computers not provided by the school
• Two-way radios
• Pagers
• Any other device capable of digital communication, such as fitness trackers with messaging capabilities

What devices are permitted at school?

All Del Valle ISD issued devices, such as Chromebooks, laptops, or tablets, are permitted to be used at school for academic purposes.

How can I reach my student in an emergency?

Parents can always contact the school office if they have an urgent need to contact their child during school hours. If students have phones securely stored in their backpacks, they will have access to turn it on in the event of an emergency.

Two phases of implementation

Phase 1: During the first six weeks of school, we’ll focus on education and grace. Students will receive reminders, and staff will take time to explain the new expectations. Each campus will have a designated point person to help guide this transition, and families will receive information through school emails, newsletters, websites, and social media.

During this transition time, the consequences for cell phone use will be progressive:

• First offense: Verbal reminder 
• Second offense: Device confiscated and returned at the end of the day
• Third offense: Device returned only to a parent or guardian
• Chronic violations: Parent meeting and progressive discipline

During Phase 1, we will continue to monitor implementation, evaluate our practices, and engage stakeholders through the Superintendent’s Advisory Councils, which include students.

Phase 2: Full Implementation (Starting Week of September 22)

Once we’ve given students time to learn the expectations, enforcement will shift to immediate and progressive consequences without verbal warnings. The consequences will include:

• First offense: Device confiscated and returned only to a parent/guardian
• Second offense: Confiscation plus detention; documented in Skyward
• Third offense: Confiscation plus an in-person parent meeting
• Fourth offense or chronic issues: Behavior plan created to include temporary ban of the device on campus.

Students who refuse to turn in their devices when asked will face disciplinary action in accordance with our Student Handbook. 

Why This Matters

This policy isn’t about limiting access—it’s about creating the best possible learning conditions for every student. By working together, we can create a school culture that is calmer, safer, and more focused.

We appreciate your partnership in making this shift a success.