Trustees adopt local policy banning personal devices during school day to comply with new state law

Magnolia ISD trustees voted to revise policy FNCE (local) to prohibit the use of personal communication devices on school property during the instructional day in order to comply with House Bill 1481. Doctor King, who presented the policy changes, said the law requires boards to "adopt, implement, and ensure the district, or school complies with written policy prohibiting a student from using a personal communication device while on school property during the school day." The district's revision allows students to possess devices but not to use them during the school day; devices must be stored in accordance with administrative regulations. The board discussed exceptions the law mandates: the device may be used if necessary to implement an individualized education program (IEP), a 504 plan, if a physician directs it, or if required to comply with other health or safety protocols. King said disciplinary measures must be established through the student code of conduct, which the district expects to bring to the board for approval on Aug. 11. Trustees and staff discussed enforcement logistics and an initial period of outreach and instruction for students. King said administrators expect to "give students a chance" in the first days and to use class meetings, principal communications and parent outreach to explain expectations. The board approved the revision by motion (Jordan moved; David seconded).