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Personal Communication Devices

Update on Personal Communication Devices at San Elizario ISD

New Texas law will take effect at the start of the 2025–2026 school year
2025 - 2026 School Year

 

NO Personal Communication Devices

During the 89th Texas Legislative Session, House Bill 1481 was passed, prohibiting students from using personal communication devices during the school day and on school property.
This change includes:

  • Cell phones
  • Smartwatches
  • Tablets
  • Radios
  • And similar devices.

The law applies to all Texas public and open-enrollment charter schools, including San Elizario ISD. Exceptions are made for students with documented medical needs or special education accommodations.

What This Means for San Elizario ISD Students (PK–12) 

Beginning with the 2025–2026 school year, San Elizario ISD will implement the following practices in accordance with the new law: 

  • All personal electronic devices, including cell phones and smartwatches, must be turned off before entering campus. 
  • Devices must be stored in backpacks or lockers—not on the student’s person (e.g., clothing pockets)—and must remain powered off and completely out of view throughout the school day. 
  • Use or visible possession of any personal communication device during the school day will result in confiscation and disciplinary consequences. 

This includes all areas inside the school building such as: 

  • Classrooms 
  • Libraries 
  • Cafeterias 
  • Hallways 
  • Restrooms 
  • Locker rooms 
  • Any other common spaces 

Devices may be turned back on only after the final bell at dismissal, at which time students may use them to communicate with parents or guardians regarding transportation or other after-school needs. 

Dismissal Times by Grade Level 

  • San Elizario High School: 8:05 am - 4:50 pm
  • Ann M. Garcia-Enriquez Middle School: 8:05 am - 4:50 pm
  • Josefa L. Sambrano Elementary School: 7:20 am - 4:05 pm  
  • Lorenzo G. Alarcon Elementary School: 7:20 am - 4:05 pm  
  • Alfonso Borrego Sr. Elementary School: 7:20 am - 4:05 pm  
  • Lorenzo G. Loya Primary School: 7:20 am - 4:05 pm

Please note: Receiving a call or text from a parent or family member during class is not an acceptable reason for device use. If you need to reach your child during the school day, please call the school’s front office, and we will ensure your message is delivered. 

If a student needs to make an emergency call during the day, they should report to the front office.