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Ore City ISD board adopts HB 1481 policy banning student devices during instruction
Summary
The Ore City ISD Board of Trustees on July 28, 2025, approved a FNCE (LOCAL) policy implementing HB 1481 that prohibits student communication devices during instructional time and establishes an escalating discipline process.
Ore City Independent School District trustees voted July 28 to adopt a local policy update to implement HB 1481, which bars student communication devices during instructional time and sets procedures for enforcement.
According to the minutes, HB 1481 requires that communication devices be turned into the office, left at home, or kept in a vehicle. Teachers are restricted to accessing personal cell phones only during conference periods, and classrooms will have land-line phones for emergencies. The district intends an escalating discipline policy beginning with a warning, then referral to OCS, and then DAEP. For out-of-town sporting events, coaches may decide whether students receive devices back on the bus or when the event concludes. The minutes also note district drop-off points will be provided to help students turn in devices and get to class on time and that personal items such as tablets, earbuds, or smart watches are not allowed under the policy.
The motion to approve the FNCE (LOCAL) policy update was made by Trustee Bobby Byrd and seconded by Trustee Bobby Clawson; the motion passed. The transcript does not record a roll-call tally.
