Hallsville West Elementary

The Texas Legislature has enacted a new law banning the use of cell phones and personal communication devices in Texas schools. In alignment with House Bill 1481, Hallsville ISD will enforce these regulations regarding the use of personal communication devices during the instructional day.

Guidelines

Prohibited Use:

• Students may not use personal cell phones or school-issued devices for personal communication.

• House Bill 1481 prohibits the use of personal communication devices anywhere on campus during the instructional day — including hallways, restrooms, and common areas. The instructional day is defined from the first bell to the last bell, including all scheduled class periods, meals, and transitions.

• Devices must remain powered off, out of sight, or stored in a teacher-provided location.

Electronic Communication:

• Students are not permitted to use personal or school-issued devices to call, text, message, or engage in online chats.

• This includes the use of apps and services for texting, messaging, or calling.

Emergency Contact Procedures:

• Parents and guardians who need to contact their child during the school day must call the campus front office. Staff will ensure that messages are delivered promptly.

Prohibited Personal Communication Devices Include:
Cell phones, smart watches, tablets, pagers, handheld gaming devices, wireless headphones/Ear Buds.

What Parents Can Do:

• Speak to your child about this new policy.

• Encourage appropriate cell phone use.

• Promote the importance of student focus during instructional time.

Disciplinary actions for violating this policy will follow the Hallsville ISD Code of Conduct.