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Texas Cell Phone Ban in Schools: What Lubbock Families Need to Know

  • Writer: FGO Staff
    FGO Staff
  • Jul 29
  • 2 min read

A big change is coming to Texas schools this fall. Starting September 1, 2025, House Bill 1481 goes into effect, requiring all public school districts and open‑enrollment charters to ban personal communication devices during the school day.


This means no cell phones, smartwatches, earbuds, or tablets for students while school is in session. Here’s what that looks like for families in Lubbock ISD, Frenship ISD, and Lubbock‑Cooper ISD.


📜 The Basics of HB 1481

Under the new law:

  • Devices must be prohibited or securely stored out of sight during school hours.

  • Consequences will apply for violations (confiscation, parent pick‑up, or disciplinary action).

  • Exceptions are allowed for students with medical needs, IEP/504 accommodations, or safety protocols.

  • School‑issued devices (like district laptops) may still be used for instruction.


🍎 How Lubbock ISD Is Responding

Lubbock ISD has confirmed that students must keep devices powered off and out of sight during the entire school day — including class, lunch, and passing periods.


Violations will follow a tiered discipline policy, starting with warnings and parent contact, and escalating to possible suspension for repeated offenses. Students who need to contact parents may do so through the front office or classroom phones.


🐯 How Frenship ISD Is Responding

Frenship ISD, which already operates a 1:1 technology program in many grades, will continue using school‑issued laptops for learning — but personal devices are banned during instructional hours.


The district is updating its Student Code of Conduct to outline storage expectations and consequences. Exceptions for medical and educational accommodations will be honored.


⚓ How Lubbock‑Cooper ISD Is Responding

Lubbock‑Cooper ISD will also follow HB 1481, requiring devices to be stored away during the school day. While full enforcement details will be shared at back‑to‑school orientations, the policy will mirror state law: no personal phones, earbuds, or smartwatches in use during class.


Parents should watch for campus‑specific guidelines in their child’s handbook.


💬 Talking to Your Child About the Ban

  • Explain the “why.” This isn’t about punishment — it’s about fewer distractions, more focus, and healthier social interactions.

  • Review alternatives. Show them how to contact you through the school office if needed.

  • Set expectations. Make sure they know the consequences of breaking the rules.

  • Offer reassurance. Remind them that teachers and staff are there to help.


🌟 FGO's Back to School HQ:

This year, students in Lubbock schools will walk into classrooms with fewer devices — and more opportunities to connect, focus, and learn. With clear communication and a positive mindset, families can help kids adapt smoothly to this big change.


👉 For more back‑to‑school tips, including supply lists and parenting resources, visit our FGO Back‑to‑School HQ: https://www.lubbockfamily.org/blog/categories/back-to-school


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