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Godley ISD adopts HB1481-compliant ban on student personal devices during school day
Summary
The board adopted FNCE(LOCAL), restricting student use of personal communication devices on campus during the school day with limited medical and IEP/504 exceptions; administrators reported early positive feedback at the high school.
Godley Independent School District trustees adopted policy FNCE(LOCAL) to comply with House Bill 1481, prohibiting most student use of personal communication devices on school property during the instructional day, with limited exceptions for IEP/504 plans, documented medical need or other law‑required uses.
Policy presenter said the district will require students to store devices in backpacks per administrative regulations; the district will not dispose of devices and will store collected devices. Staff noted parents expressed opposition to products such as on‑person pouches during public outreach, so backpacks are the chosen storage method.
Superintendent and campus staff reported positive early results at the high school following voluntary or pilot restrictions: “It's so refreshing to walk in and see the kids' faces because they're they're talking to each other,” one staff member said. The district plans staff and parent surveys at about six weeks and again after the first quarter to assess effects on classroom engagement, grades and behavior.
Trustees discussed device exceptions. The presenter said two students currently have approved device access for documented medical reasons after review through the 504/special‑education process; other requests were resolved with alternative accommodations.
The board approved FNCE(LOCAL) in a 5–1 vote. Administrators said they will monitor technology requests, Chromebook repair demand and survey staff and parents for feedback.
