Houston ISD Rolls Out Cell Phone Ban

Houston ISD Rolls Out Cell Phone Ban

By | Texas Scorecard |August 4, 2025

Houston Independent School District has unveiled a comprehensive cell phone policy prohibiting student use of personal devices during the entire school day, aligning with a new Texas law to curb electronic interruptions in public schools.

The policy, effective for the 2025-2026 school year, comes as districts statewide grapple with implementing the legislation passed during the 89th Legislative Session, which mandates bans on cell phones, smartwatches, tablets, and similar devices to enhance focus and academic performance.

Under Houston ISD’s guidelines, students must keep devices powered off and out of sight from campus arrival until dismissal, including during lunch and transitions.

Violations trigger escalating consequences: a first offense results in same-day confiscation with parental pickup, and subsequent infractions extend hold times up to two school days, potentially leading to formal discipline.

Exceptions are made for cases of medical necessity or for students receiving services for disabilities; however, school-issued technology for learning remains permitted.

Houston ISD Chief of Schools Sandi Massey emphasized the goal of a “safe and distraction-free learning environment,” noting in a district video that the rule eliminates calls, texts, social media, and internet access during instructional time.

The law, effective June 20, reflects growing concerns over social media’s impact on youth mental health and classroom disruptions, as highlighted by U.S. surgeon general reports and state lawmakers. Districts are required to adopt compliant policies by September 20.

The law requires disciplinary protocols and offers a $20 million Phone Free Schools Grant for compliant districts to fund secure storage solutions.

Reactions in Houston are mixed. Parents have voiced safety fears, arguing the all-day ban hinders emergency communication, especially in an era of school threats. Students also decry the policy as overly restrictive.

Yet supporters, including educators, praise it for reducing cheating, bullying via apps, and distractions that erode Texas’ educational standards.

Joseph is a journalist for Texas Scorecard reporting from Houston. With a background in business, Joseph is passionate about covering issues impacting citizens.