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Personal Communications Device (Cell Phone) Policy
Overview
In compliance with new state legislation, Midway ISD is implementing a district-wide policy “banning” student personal communication device use beginning in the 2025–26 school year.
House Bill 1481, passed by the Texas Legislature, requires all public schools to adopt a policy prohibiting student device use during the school day while on school property. Midway ISD is taking this action to comply with requirements arising from this new law.
We remain committed to creating a focused, respectful learning environment, and we will work with students and families to implement this transition with clarity and care.
Why It Matters
- Complies with state law (House Bill 1481)
- Helps reduce classroom distractions
- Supports academic engagement and social interaction
- Encourages responsible technology use
What to Expect
- The policy applies to all campuses and grade levels.
- Devices must be silenced and out of sight during instructional time.
- Exceptions for medical, instructional, or other approved uses will be clearly defined in campus guidelines.
- Midway ISD and Campuses will communicate enforcement practices before the start of the school year.
- Read the Student Code of Conduct for a more detailed explanation of expectations and potential consequences for non-compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Midway ISD making this change now?
This policy is the result of House Bill 1481, passed by the Texas Legislature. The law mandates that all public school districts adopt policies limiting student personal communication devices during the school day while on school property. While Midway ISD had not planned to pursue this level of change in phone policy prior to this law, we are now required to comply with state law.
What is a Personal Communications Device?
Per House Bill 1481, a Personal Communications Device is a telephone, cellphone such as a smartphone or flip phone, tablet, smartwatch, radio device, paging device, or any other electronic device capable of telecommunication or digital communication.
What are the key rules in this policy?
Phones must be turned off or silenced and kept out of sight during the school day while on school property. Students may not use phones to record, text, call, or access social media during class.
What is the "school day"?
The school day begins when a student enters the school building and ends at the last bell of the school’s last instructional period of the day.
Will Midway have “pouches” or designated spaces for cell phones to be put away?
No. Midway ISD will not be using pouches but has designated appropriate Personal Communication Device storage. Designated storage areas include a student's car or personal bag (e.g. purse, backpack, sling-bag). It is the student’s responsibility to keep their device turned off and out of sight during the school day. If a device is removed from storage, seen, or used in violation of the policy, it will be confiscated and consequences applied.
Are smartwatches included?
Yes. Smartwatches and other use accessories that connect to personal communication devices are considered part of the restriction during the school day while on school property.
Can my child use their device at lunch or in between classes?
No. Due to the wording of the new state law, personal communication device use is not allowed at any time during the school day while on school property—including during lunch and passing periods. The law applies throughout the entire time the student is in the building, regardless of the specific activity or location on campus.
How will the policy be enforced?
Enforcement will be handled at the campus level, using procedures that prioritize communication and consistency. The Student Code of Conduct provides clear expectations to students and families before the first day of school.
What if I need to reach my student during the day?
Please contact the front office at your student’s campus. Staff can relay urgent messages.
What about students with medical needs or accommodations?
Students who use phones or related devices for medical reasons or as part of an approved accommodation plan will be permitted to do so. Please contact your campus if you believe this may apply to your child.
Where can I read the full policy?
A downloadable copy of the board-approved policy is available here.
Where can I get more information?
Parents and families will receive information through ParentSquare, campus newsletters, and social media over the coming months. A dedicated section on the Parent Portal will provide FAQs and resources to support a smooth transition
Help Desk Tips & Troubleshooting
Below are some basic tips and troubleshooting suggestions for students and parents; staff members can find the help desk on the Staff Portal.
ParentSquare
For ParentSquare help, view our ParentSquare page.
StudentSquare (middle and high school students only)
Students at Midway High School, Midway Middle School, and River Valley Middle School will have access to StudentSquare. You can download the app on your phone and the app will come preinstalled on your school iPad.
Students need to use the "Sign In with Microsoft" option, which uses their school email address.
Helpful Links:
Home Access Center
Home Access Center is an online portal allowing parents, guardians and students to view student assignments, grades, attendance, and selected demographic information.
View our Home Access Center Guide for more information.
My Locker
Follow these instructions to unlock your My Locker account.
Schoology
Please view our Schoology guide.
iPad Fines
MIDWAY ISD WEB STORE/PAYMENT PORTAL
For iPad Fines
Steps to log in online: https://tx-midway.intouchreceipting.com/
Please follow directions carefully.
- Username: Student ID# Password: Student Last Name *Capitalize first letter of last name
- Who are you shopping for? Click on your student’s name.
- Click View next to the listed fine
- Select the check box(es) next to the fines you want to pay
- Click Pay Selected Fines/Fees
- Follow directions to Checkout
- A receipt will be available at the end for you to email or save and print.
If you have any issues or questions using the payment system, you may email:
*Please contact your campus Assistant Principal if you have questions about the fine that was assessed.
