The Texas Legislature passed legislation this year that requires school districts to adopt policies
prohibiting students from using personal wireless communication devices on school property
during the instructional day and that designates a secure, out-of-sight area for storage of these
devices.

A personal wireless communication device includes items such as cell phones, text messaging
devices, laptops, and tablets — any device capable of transmitting or receiving data that the
school does not provide for instructional purposes.

New Caney ISD’s policy regarding personal communication devices can be found in the 2025-26
Student Handbook and Code of Conduct.

The district’s updated policy, in accordance with law, is that:

Personal communications devices must remain off or on silent and stored in backpacks throughout the instructional day except before school or after school. Cell phones and other personal communication devices may not be stored on a student’s person.

Additionally, teachers may collect a personal communication device and turn them in to the
principal’s office if students are not following policy. The principal will then determine whether
to return items to students at the end of the day or to contact parents to pick up the items.

The use of cell phones or any device capable of capturing images is strictly prohibited in locker
rooms or restroom areas while at school or at a school-related or school-sponsored event.

If a student uses a personal communication device without authorization during the school day,
the device may be confiscated by a staff member. The student or parent may pick up the
confiscated cell phone from the principal’s office.

Confiscated personal communication devices that are not retrieved by the student or the student’s
parent will be disposed of after the notice required by law. [See policy FNCE for more
information.]

In limited circumstances and in accordance with law, authorized personnel may search a
student’s personal communication device. [See Searches and policy FNF for more information.]

Also, The district may authorize the use of a personal communication device for the following
reasons:

• To implement an individualized education program (IEP) or for a plan created under Section 504, Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C Section 794) or a similar program or plan;
• With documented need based on a directive from a qualified physician; or
• To comply with a health or safety requirement imposed by law or as part of the district’s safety protocols.

Any disciplinary action will be in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. The district is
not responsible for damaged, lost, or stolen personal communication devices.