Dear Graham ISD Parents and Guardians,

Please see the information attached regarding the new House Bill 1481 regarding Cell Phones in school. We will adopt a policy aligned to the legislative action prior to school starting. We will also publish an FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) on our website once the policy is adopted. We will communicate with you via Parent Square as we progress through the process.

New Statewide Personal Communication Device General Expectations per HB 1481

The 89th Texas Legislature passed House Bill 1481, which was signed by the Governor on June 20, 2025, prohibiting “a student from using a personal communication device while on school property during the school day.” To foster an environment that supports academic focus and positive social interactions, students are not permitted to use personal electronic devices—meaning a telephone, cell phones such as a smartphone or flip phone, tablet, smartwatches, radio device, paging device, headphones, earbuds, gaming device, or any other electronic device capable of telecommunication or digital communication during the instructional day. These devices must remain out of sight and secured from the time students enter the building until the end of the school day. Note: The term “personal communication device” does not include an electronic device provided to a student by a school district. TEA will post greater guidance and model language for Districts in August.

Expectations for Student Conduct-Campus administrators will consistently communicate with students and reinforce expectations regarding the non-use of personal communication devices per HB 1481. Graham ISD remains committed to minimizing disruptions to the learning environment caused by personal communication devices during the instructional day and per HB 1481.

Guidelines for Personal Communication Device Storage Required by HB 1481

Beginning of the School Day

• Before entering the school building, students must power off all personal communication devices.
• Personal communication devices must be stored in backpacks or pockets and stored there for the entire instructional day per HB 1481.
• Students are responsible for ensuring their personal communication devices are secured and out of sight throughout the instructional day.

• Personal communication devices must be stored in backpacks or pockets and stored there for the entire instructional day per HB 1481.
• Use of these devices at any time or location on campus during the instructional day is prohibited.

End of the School Day

• Once students have exited the building, they may resume use of their personal communication devices.

Thank you so much for your continued support.

Graham ISD