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Wichita Falls ISD Cell Phone & Electronic Device Policy

In Compliance with Texas HB 1481 (Effective August 14, 2025)

PURPOSE

To provide a focused, respectful, safe, and distraction-free learning environment, WFISD, in alignment with Texas House Bill 1481, prohibits the use of personal wireless communication devices at any time during the school day.

PERSONAL WIRELESS COMMUNICATION DEVICES includes cell phones, smartwatches, smartlenses, earbuds, headphones, tablets, pagers, gaming devices, laptops not issued by the school, or any device capable of sending/receiving wireless communication.

school time
SCHOOL DAY DEFINED
The school day includes:
  • The time a student arrives on campus
  • Instructional time
  • Lunch
  • Transitions
  • Tutorials
  • Any periods on campus prior to dismissal
checklist
GENERAL POLICY (ALL GRADE LEVELS)
  • Devices must be powered off, out of sight, and put away in backpacks, purses, Yondr pouch (Barwise & Rider Middle School students), pockets or lockers during the school day. 
  • Use of devices is prohibited in restrooms, locker rooms, and any other space where privacy is expected.
  • Wireless earbuds and headphones may not be used unless specified in an approved IEP or 504 plan. 
  • Student devices in violation of the policy will be confiscated.
  • WFISD is not liable for loss, theft, or damage to personal devices.
exceptions
EXCEPTIONS
  • Students with 504 or IEP accommodations may be eligible for exceptions as documented. A documented need based on a qualified physician's directive may also be eligible. 
  • Dual credit high school students required to provide two-factor authentication for college courses may have occasional exceptions.
PARENT COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL
To avoid disruptions and misinformation, all communication or emergency contact should go through the school's front office. Notice will be delivered as soon as possible.
 
PARENT/GUARDIAN PICK UP POLICY
  • Only a parent or legal guardian my retrieve confiscated devices; devices will not be released to siblings, relatives, or non-guardians.
  • Photo ID will be required upon pick up
  • Pick up hours are normal school business hours
    • High Schools: 7 am - 3:30 pm
    • Middle Schools: 7:15 am - 3:45 pm
  • Unclaimed devices - items not retrieved by the end of the school year will be disposed of after required notice is provided.
REFUSAL TO COMPLY
Refusal to turn over the device when requested will result in:
  • Immediate referral to the office
  • Possible in-school suspension (ISS), out-of-school suspension for insubordination, or additional consequences
  • Required parent meeting

Violation Consequences

Summary

Wichita Falls ISD enforces this policy to protect instructional time, reduce distractions, and encourage responsible digital habits. House Bill 1481 mandates restricted device use, and this policy ensures consistent application with clear expectations, support, and consequences for student success. 

Frequently Asked Questions