At the Special Called Meeting on August 7, the Victoria ISD Board of Trustees formally approved Local Policy FNCE(L), establishing the district’s compliance with Texas House Bill 1481, signed into law by Governor Abbott on June 20, 2025. The new policy takes effect for the 2025–26 school year.
House Bill 1481 requires all public and open-enrollment charter school districts in Texas to adopt a written policy that prohibits student use of personal communication devices while on campus during the school day. The school day refers to bell-to-bell instruction, which is the time from the first bell in the morning to the dismissal bell in the afternoon. The purpose of this legislation is to:
Reduce classroom distractions and enhance student focus
Promote healthier learning environments and support student mental well-being
VISD Policy Expectation: “Off and Away”
Under the approved policy, Victoria ISD students are not prohibited from possessing personal communication devices while on school property. However, all personal communication devices must remain completely powered off, securely stored, and fully concealed from bell-to-bell instruction, which is the time from the first bell in the morning to the dismissal bell in the afternoon. This includes class time, passing periods, lunch, in locker rooms, restrooms, and while on campus during school hours. Devices must be fully concealed to comply with this policy.
A “personal communication device” is defined by HB 1481 as any device capable of telecommunication or digital communication, including but not limited to:
Cell phones
Tablets
Smartwatches
Headphones and earbuds
Electronic device capable of telecommunication or digital communication
Any personal communication device not issued by VISD
District-issued instructional technology, such as Chromebooks, is not subject to this policy and may continue to be used following classroom instruction.
Students found using a personal communication device during the school day in violation of this policy may face the following consequences:
The device will be confiscated and held by campus administration.
A parent/guardian will be required to pick up the device during school office hours, and with a photo ID.
Repeated violations may result in escalating disciplinary consequences in alignment with the Student Code of Conduct.
VISD encourages families to discuss the expectations of this new policy with their child(ren) to ensure clarity and smooth implementation as the school year begins, as this policy is not only districtwide but also required by state law under HB 1481.
“Our goal is to foster an engaging and focused learning environment,” said Assistant Superintendent Justin Gabrysch. “This policy supports academic growth and student well-being by reducing unnecessary distractions throughout the day.”
The policy is being communicated across all VISD platforms and campuses to ensure full awareness by students, staff, and families.
For more information about the Personal Communication Device Guidelines, visit Administrative Services at VISD.net.
Ashley Alvarez is the executive director of communications for VISD.