LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – Along with every other public school in the state of Texas, Lubbock ISD is banning the use of cell phones.
House Bill 1481 prohibits the use of all personal communication devices not only in the classroom, but throughout the school day.
Superintendent Dr. Kathy Rollo says this new protocol will be an adjustment for everyone, from teachers to principals, students and parents.
Lubbock ISD has always worked to keep phones out of the classroom, but the new state law takes those rules to a new level, requiring students keep their devices turned off and out of sight from bell to bell.
“I think about our juniors and seniors that have been able to access their phones probably since they were little during those passing periods and during lunch, and so it is going to be an adjustment,” she said. “But, I think once we get past that initial time period, hopefully we’ll see things level off and become more of just the way we do things.”
Rollo says she understands the heart behind the law, and hopes the change will also lead to better mental health for students.
“There is some distraction that happens with cell phones. Social media is a big concern, and sometimes that can even lead to some harassment and bullying between kids,” she said. “So, the intent is that students are more engaged in learning. That’s why they’re coming to school.”
The law not only requires districts to ban phones, but smart watches, tablets and wireless earbuds.
Consequences start with devices being taken up by teachers, then move to parent conferences and breaking the rules four or more times could lead to time in ISS.
Rollo knows this will be an adjustment for parents, too.
“They’ve been able to text their children during the school day. Many of our parents track where their kids are through their devices,” she said. “But, we’re asking our parents to please help support us in this endeavor. The hope is that this is going to provide less distraction for students so that they can truly focus on their learning.”
Exceptions will be made for students with documented special needs or medical concerns.
Rollo says parents can always call the office to talk to their child and vice versa. In an emergency, the district has a system in place to communicate with parents.
“We will be messaging from the district level, if there were some type of emergency situation,” she said. “I understand that concern, but also if parents need to call the school, they can do that. If it’s an emergency situation, we may or may not be able to answer because we’re busy making sure our kids are safe.”
Students still have district-issued 1-to-1 Chromebooks they can use in the classroom. Teachers who utilized personal devices for learning in the past will be adjusting to using the Chromebooks for those lessons.
The district has already sent communication about the new change to parents, and Rollo says there will probably be more to come after the school year begins. The district’s website now includes a section detailing the policy and frequently asked questions.
Governor Greg Abbott plans to sign the bill creating phone-free classrooms Friday in Amarillo.
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