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MISD's 2025-26 Cell Phone Policy

Posted Date: 8/08/25 (3:54 PM)
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Image promoting Mesquite ISD's cell phone policy, featuring a phone and a notification bell.
A smartphone with a ringing call is inside a red 'no' symbol.

A New Chapter in Student Success: Go Offline, You'll Be Fine

In the 89th Texas Legislative Session, state lawmakers passed House Bill 1481, signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott, prohibiting students from using personal digital communication devices during the entire school day, including instructional and non-instructional time.

The law requires Mesquite ISD to implement a "no cell phone" policy during the school day, which includes all personal digital communication devices.

  • Cellphones
  • Tablets
  • Smartwatches
  • Earbuds and headphones
  • Radios and paging devices 
  • Any other electronic device used to communicate with others

When your child returns to school on August 12, use of these devices will be prohibited during class time, transitions, and lunch. This means students will be required to keep these devices stored out of reach in their backpacks or lockers for the entire school day.
A Mesquite ISD infographic detailing the cell phone policy for students, including consequences.
Informational graphic about Mesquite ISD's cell phone policy, with text and icons.
Find Answers to FAQs Here
 

Consequences for Violations

1st Violation
  • Device is confiscated until the end of the day
  • Student may retrieve the device during the designated pick-up time

2nd Violation
  • Device is confiscated
  • Parent or guardian must retrieve the device from the office during the designated pick-up time

3rd Violation
  • Device is confiscated
  • Parent or guardian must retrieve the device from the office at the designated pick-up time and pay $15 fee

4th and Subsequent Violations
  • May result in continued confiscation and could include disciplinary action
  • Parent or guardian must retrieve the device from the office at the designated pick-up time and pay a $30 fee
 

Go Beyond the Policy

What happens when phones go away? Learn how this shift aims to boost academic success, reduce distractions, and create a healthier, more connected school environment. Click the button below to check out our latest blog post.
Read What the Research Says