Crowley ISD trustees on Monday adopted FNCE(LOCAL), the district policy implementing state law that bars students from using personal communication devices on school property during the school day.
The change responds to House Bill 1481 and the portion of state law referenced in the meeting materials; Ms. Batiste, a Crowley ISD staff member, told the board that the law requires boards to adopt a written policy prohibiting student use of phones and similar devices during school hours.
The policy spells out limited exceptions. Students may keep devices visible or powered if an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a Section 504 plan specifies that the device is necessary, or if a physician provides documentation of a medical need. Ms. Batiste said implementation details and enforcement rules will be developed by the superintendent and administrators.
Mr. Kirschner, a district staff member, described the district’s communication plan to notify families once the board adopted the policy: "the guidelines, once approved by the board, will of course be posted on our website and social media, emails sent out to parents starting this evening after the vote, call outs, text messages as everyone's getting ready for school," and reminders during district Zoom sessions before school starts.
Trustees asked implementation questions during the discussion. Trustee Davis asked what physician documentation should state; Ms. Batiste replied it must "clearly what the health need is for the kid to have the cell phone." Trustee Watkins asked whether smartwatches are included; Ms. Batiste replied the law covers "all personal communication devices."
Board members discussed hardship and confidentiality concerns raised by special-education families. Ms. Batiste said the district will create processes for parents with legitimate needs — including the option for the front office to relay urgent messages or for an assistant principal to hold a device when contact is needed — and that principals and assistant principals will meet next week to work through more detailed implementation questions.
President Gracia called for the motion to adopt. Trustee Davis moved to adopt FNCE(LOCAL); Dr. Robinson seconded the motion, and the board approved it.
The policy takes effect under the district’s implementation schedule; administrators said that once formal regulations are finalized they will share details with parents and staff before the first day of school so families know how the rules will be enforced.