As we prepare for an exciting 2025–2026 school year in Leander ISD, we want to make sure you are aware of a significant change that’s impacting all Texas public school students and families.
A new state law — House Bill 1481 — says students may not use personal communication devices during the school day. That means cell phones, tablets, smartwatches, radio devices, paging devices, or any other electronic device capable of telecommunication or digital communication are prohibited while on school property from the first bell to the last bell. Devices must be turned off, out of sight, and stored away — in a locker, designated pouch, or backpack — for the entire school day.
This law applies to every public school in Texas, kindergarten through 12th grade, and we are required to adopt and enforce policies that match the law.
While this change may propose a significant shift, it’s designed with students’ success in mind. By removing the distraction of devices, we can boost focus and engagement in the classroom, spark more real-world conversations and help limit negative online interactions and conflicts that can take away from learning. These clear expectations give students the chance to fully immerse themselves in their education — and in the friendships and connections that make school life so meaningful.
Exceptions to the New Device Rules
While the new law sets clear limits on personal communication device use during the school day, there are a few important exceptions:
- Learning Support: If a device is needed to carry out a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a Section 504 accommodation plan.
- Medical Needs: If a licensed physician has documented that a student requires a device for health-related purposes.
- Safety Compliance: If a device is necessary to meet a health or safety requirement set by law or included in the district’s safety procedures.
These exceptions ensure that students who truly need access to their devices for learning, health, or safety reasons can still use them, while keeping the overall focus on creating a distraction-free school day for everyone.
What Happens If the Rules Are Broken
The goal of the new device policy is to support learning, not to punish. However, consistent expectations are important. Here’s how violations will be addressed:
- First Steps: Students who use a device during the school day will first receive a verbal or written warning. If the behavior continues, parents or guardians will be contacted so we can work together to address the issue before it becomes a bigger concern.
- Device Collection: If necessary, a prohibited device — such as a cell phone, tablet, smartwatch, radio device, or paging device — may be collected and held at the school. It will be returned directly to a parent or guardian. (If the device is not picked up within 90 calendar days after notification, the school may dispose of it.)
- Loss of Privilege: Ongoing violations may lead to the student losing the privilege of bringing an electronic communication device to school at all.
- Further Consequences: Continued misuse will be treated as a violation of the Leander ISD Student Code of Conduct, which could result in additional disciplinary action.
These steps are designed to give students opportunities to correct the behavior early, keep families in the loop, and ensure that classrooms remain focused, respectful spaces for learning.
Additional Questions?
We understand that a change like this may bring up questions, perhaps even some concerns, for students and families. Our goal is to make this transition as smooth and supportive as possible, while keeping the focus on creating the best learning environment for every student. To help, we’ve prepared a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) guide below that explains the new law, the district’s policy, and how it will work in day-to-day school life. If you don’t see your question addressed, please submit a Let’s Talk. We’re here to help.
What does “school day” or “instructional day” mean?
The school day, also known as the instructional day, encompasses the period from the first bell to the last bell, including lunch and passing periods.
How can I reach my student during the school day?
Please call the school office, and we will deliver your message. In the event of an urgent situation, we will ensure that your child receives the information as quickly as possible.
What if there’s a school emergency?
All campuses follow established emergency protocols. During a lockdown, evacuation, or any other Standard Response Protocol (SRP), students are guided by trained staff. When it is safe to do so, students may be allowed to use their phones to contact families. As soon as information becomes available, families will receive official updates and instructions directly from the district through our communication platform, ParentSquare. This ensures timely, accurate information and helps reduce confusion.
Will this law apply to extracurricular or before/after-school activities?
No. The law applies to all classes, including extracurricular activities, during the school day. Students may use their devices after the final bell, including for extracurricular activities or transportation needs.
Can my student use their phone on the school bus?
Yes. The law only applies during the school day. Students may use personal devices before the first bell and after the final bell, including on any district-provided bus or other vehicle.
What about smartwatches? Can students wear them?
No. Smartwatches can send/receive messages, make calls, and otherwise communicate. Smartwatches must be off and away during the school day. Students may wear watches during the school day if they are used strictly for telling time. The intent behind House Bill 1481 is to limit distractions in the classroom and across campus so students can stay focused on learning.
Can students still bring and use a personal laptop instead of a district-issued device?
Yes. Laptops/Chromebooks without cellular connectivity are permitted on the LISD WiFi network and approved for student BYOT (Bring Your Own Technology) use. Devices with SIM(Subscriber Identity Module) cards (cellular capability) are not allowed.
Can my student take their phone with them to the restroom “just in case”?
No. Phones must remain stored throughout the entire instructional day, including during restroom breaks. This is part of ensuring compliance with the law and protecting student privacy in restrooms.
What if my student walks home and needs their phone for safety?
Students may access and use their phones after the final bell. The law applies only during the school day, so phones can be turned on once the school day is over.
What happens if my student forgets their device is in their pocket?
If the device remains off and unseen, there is no issue. However, if it becomes visible, makes noise, or is accessed in any way, it will be treated as a violation.
What happens if a phone rings or vibrates in the backpack during class?
If the phone causes a disruption, even unintentionally, it may be confiscated and treated as a violation. Devices should be completely powered off and silent during the school day.
What happens to my student’s cell phone if it’s confiscated for a violation? Cell phones are expensive, and I don’t want the phone to get lost.
We understand that personal devices are valuable. If a student’s phone is confiscated, it will be securely stored in a designated area in the front office. Only authorized staff have access, and the phone will remain there until it is returned to the student and/or picked up by a parent or guardian.
What if my student forgets something at home or has an appointment? Can they check their phone to let me know?
No. Students may not use their phones to contact parents during the school day, even for things like forgotten items or appointments. If a student needs to make a call, they can use the front office phone.
We encourage families to communicate any planned appointments or early checkouts before the school day begins. If an unexpected situation arises, such as an early appointment or a need to pick up your child, the front office will contact the student directly.
Can my student check the Leander ISD Connect (ParentSquare) app on their phone for updates from a coach or sponsor?
No. Leander ISD Connect (ParentSquare) and all academic tools must be accessed on their mLISD or BYOT device during school hours. If the message is important, they should let a teacher or administrator know.
Can my student use a messaging app on their mLISD device to contact me during the day?
No. Personal messaging is not permitted during the school day, even on mLISD devices. If your child needs to get in touch with you, they should go through the front office or a staff member.
The intent behind House Bill 1481 is to limit distractions in the classroom and across campus so students can stay focused on learning. As a public school district, we are required to follow this law, and we ask for your support in helping us enforce it consistently.
Can my student record a presentation or take video/photos for a class project using their phone?
No. Cell phones may not be used for recording, video, or photo purposes during the school day. Teachers will provide approved alternatives for projects requiring media.
Can my student use their phone in the nurse’s office to update me on how they’re feeling?
We completely understand wanting to hear from your child when they aren’t feeling well. While students are generally not permitted to use personal devices during the school day, including in the nurse’s office, the nurses will contact you directly if your child needs to go home or if there are any health concerns.
What if my student has anxiety, and checking their phone helps them calm down?
We understand that some students use their phones as a coping mechanism, but under state law, personal device use is not permitted during the school day. If your child is experiencing anxiety that affects their ability to focus or stay regulated at school, please reach out to the campus counselor. We have support systems in place to help students manage these challenges without relying on personal devices. Please refer to the Leander ISD Student Personal Communication Device Protocols for allowable exceptions to electronic device use.
What if my student has off-campus classes? Can they use their phone once they sign out?
Yes. Once a student is off campus, they may use their personal communication devices. Phones must remain stored until they leave school grounds.
Can my student use their phone if they’re stuck somewhere or have an emergency and can’t reach staff?
Yes. In a genuine emergency, students should always use their best judgment to stay safe. If a student uses their phone to get help in a situation where staff aren’t immediately accessible, we will handle it with understanding and evaluate the circumstances appropriately.
We want families to know that our intent is not to punish students for trying to do the right thing. We recognize that unexpected situations can happen, and we will approach those moments with common sense and care. At the same time, we are working to follow the law as required and ask for your support in keeping personal device use limited to true emergencies only.
More to Come
HB 1481 is just one of many new laws shaping the future of Texas public education. In total, 107 bills passed during the 89th Legislative Session will influence nearly every aspect of school life — from student and family experience to district finances, curriculum, discipline, safety, and daily operations. Leander ISD is prioritizing communication about these changes, focusing first on those with the greatest urgency, impact, and importance for our students, families, and staff.
We encourage our community to stay informed by reading district updates, following our official channels, and reviewing resources posted on our website. As new requirements take effect, we’ll continue to share timely, easy‑to‑understand information to help families and staff navigate the changes together.
Click the button below to review the district’s legislative priorities.
