Phone Free in TISD
NEW TEXAS LAW
To comply with new legislation (HB 1418) and promote the best possible learning and social environment in Tolar ISD, students will not use their cell phones, smart watches, AirPods/earbuds, etc., during the school day. Embracing a phone-free policy in Tolar Independent School District enhances academic achievement by minimizing distractions and maximizing instructional time. This initiative not only supports school safety efforts but also fosters an environment conducive to learning, where students can fully engage in their studies and interact meaningfully with their peers and teachers.
Elementary students will turn their devices into the office if they bring them to campus. Secondary students will be assigned a personal secure pouch at the beginning of the school year. Students are expected to bring their secure pouch to school daily and return it in good condition at the end of the year. Students will be trained on expectations and implemented procedures beginning August 13, 2025.
TISD Cell Phone Policy & Procedures
Frequently Asked Questions
How will students receive their cell phone pouch?
For the 2025-2026 school year, all students in grades 6-12 will be assigned a cell phone pouch the first day of school after receiving training, to secure their phone, smartwatch and/or Airpods/earbuds. The pouch is the property of the school and is considered on loan to the student during the school year. Students are responsible for the pouch at all times and for bringing the pouch to and from school each day and keeping them in good condition.
How will the process work at arrival and dismissal?
Upon entering school, students will put their phones on airplane mode, place the phone, smartwatch and/or Airpods/earbuds inside their cell phone pouch, and lock it in front of the designated staff. The pouches will be unlocked at the end of the school day at several designated locations within the building.
What if a student needs to leave the building before regular dismissal?
If a student needs to leave school early for an approved early dismissal, medical emergency, work assignment, athletic event, or other school-sponsored trip, students will be able to unlock their devices at school just prior to their departure. If returning to school during the instructional day, their pouch would be locked upon re-entry to the building.
What happens if a student doesn't have their cell phone pouch?
The phone will be turned into the campus office where it will be stored and secured until the end of the school day. At the end of the school day, students will go to the office to retrieve their phone. Basically, no pouch – no cell phone.
What if I want to reach my student during the school day?
We want our students to be engaged in their learning; therefore, we ask that you refrain from contacting your student during the school day unless it is an emergency. Should you need to contact your student, please call the school’s front office.
What if there is an emergency?
In case of an emergency, we will follow all campus and district safety procedures to ensure the safety of our students. Once students are safe and secure, school staff will be able to unlock cell phone pouches for student use. While students may not have immediate access to their cell phones during the school day, please know that each classroom is equipped with both a phone and panic button, allowing staff to quickly communicate and respond in emergency situations. These systems are in place to ensure student safety and allow for immediate action and communication when needed.
Will my student's phone be safe?
Students are in possession of their phone – in their assigned cell phone pouch – for the entire school day.
What if the pouch is lost of damaged?
The cell phone pouch will be issued to each student individually, much like a chromebook. Each pouch will have a number that is unique to your student. If the pouch is damaged or lost, then the student/parent/guardian will be required to purchase a replacement pouch for the full replacement cost of $30.
What if my student relies on their smartphone to monitor a health condition such as diabetes?
Students who use their smartphone to monitor a health condition will be issued a non-locking cell phone pouch and will be able to continue to monitor their condition as part of their 504 accommodations or individual health plan. All other expectations will be enforced. Parents should reach out to the campus for approval.
If a student forgets to unlock the pouch before leaving the building, is there a way for students to unlock the pouch - i.e. an unlocking station outside of the school building?
There will be an unlocking station outside both the junior high and high school buildings for students to access after school hours in case they forget to unlock their pouch when leaving school.
What happens if my student doesn't follow the cell phone pouch procedure?
We will follow a progression of consequences for students who violate the cell phone-free environment procedure. Please see the TISD Cell Phone Policy & Procedures.
How does the cell phone pouch work?
Your child's actual pouch may vary, below is an example of a type of pouch.
- As students enter school, they place their phone in their assigned Pouch.
- Students close and secure their Pouch, keeping it on them throughout the day.
- When leaving school, students tap their Pouch on a Base to retrieve their phone.
The information above doesn't answer my questions. How can I submit a question about pouches?
If you have a question regarding the implementation of phone free schools, please contact your campus administrator.